Chicken Philly Sandwiches are a delicious twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, using tender slices of chicken instead of beef. This sandwich is packed with sautéed onions, peppers, and melted cheese all nestled inside a soft hoagie roll. It’s a great combo of juicy chicken, sweet veggies, and gooey cheese that makes every bite super satisfying.
I love how easy these sandwiches are to make and how quickly they come together on a busy weeknight. I usually like to cook the chicken and veggies all in one pan and then throw on a good amount of cheese right at the end so it melts perfectly. The smell alone when the cheese starts melting is enough to get everyone excited to eat!
My favorite way to serve Chicken Philly Sandwiches is with a simple side of crispy fries or a fresh green salad to balance things out. They’re a great option when you want something warm, filling, and a little bit special without too much fuss. I always find that they bring back fun memories of casual, family-friendly dinners where everyone can build their own perfect sandwich.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Chicken Philly Sandwiches
Chicken breasts: Thin slices cook quickly and stay tender. You can swap for chicken thighs for juicier meat and more flavor.
Bell peppers and onions: These add sweetness and texture. You can use red or yellow peppers if green isn’t available or try adding mushrooms for a twist.
Provolone cheese: It melts nicely and has a mild flavor. Mozzarella or fontina work well if you want a different taste or can’t find provolone.
Hoagie rolls: Choose soft yet sturdy rolls to hold the filling without falling apart. Sub sandwich buns or French bread can be good alternatives.
How Do You Get the Cheese Perfectly Melted Without Overcooking the Chicken?
Melting the cheese evenly while keeping the chicken juicy is key. Here’s how I do it:
- After cooking chicken and veggies, reduce your skillet to low heat to avoid drying the chicken out.
- Divide the mixture into portions and place cheese slices on top.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or foil—this traps steam and helps the cheese melt gently and quickly.
- Check after 2-3 minutes; the cheese should be soft and gooey without burning.
- Serve immediately for the best melty, warm sandwich experience.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking chicken and sautéing veggies all in one pan.
- Spatula – helps toss the chicken and veggies and transfer sandwich filling easily.
- Sharp knife – great for slicing chicken thinly and chopping peppers and onions.
- Cutting board – keeps your prep organized and safe.
- Optional: Lid or aluminum foil – covers the skillet to melt cheese evenly without drying out the chicken.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for thinly sliced steak to make classic Philly cheesesteak sandwiches with rich flavor.
- Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy note that pairs nicely with the peppers and onions.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of provolone for a bit of spicy kick.
- Mix in some fresh spinach or arugula after cooking for an extra touch of green and freshness.
How to Make Chicken Philly Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
For The Sandwich:
- 4 hoagie rolls or sub sandwich buns
- 8 slices provolone cheese (2 slices per sandwich)
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes: 10 minutes for prep and about 10 minutes for cooking and assembling your sandwiches. It’s a quick, delicious meal perfect any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Chicken:
In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove it from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and green bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and lightly caramelized.
3. Combine Filling and Melt Cheese:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir to combine and heat everything through. Lower the heat to low. Divide the mixture into four portions in the skillet and top each with two slices of provolone cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil to melt the cheese, which should take 2-3 minutes.
4. Prepare the Sandwiches:
While the cheese melts, split the hoagie rolls and toast them lightly if you like. Using a spatula, carefully scoop a portion of the cheesy chicken and vegetable filling onto the bottom half of each roll. Spoon any juicy bits from the skillet on top for extra flavor.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
If you want, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the filling for a fresh touch. Top your sandwiches with the other half of the rolls and serve right away while warm and melty.
If you’re a fan of flavorful chicken recipes, you’ll also love our savory Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala, comforting Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing, and sweet, tangy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken. Each one is simple to prepare and perfect for family dinners.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Breast
Chicken breast is one of the leanest sources of protein, making it a great choice for balanced meals. It’s rich in essential amino acids, low in fat, and packed with vitamins and minerals that support muscle growth, bone health, and energy production. For a complete breakdown of its nutritional profile, check out chicken breast nutrition facts. Using chicken breast in recipes like Chicken Philly Sandwiches keeps the dish flavorful while providing a healthy protein boost.
FAQs about Chicken Philly Sandwiches
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken first. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method in a sealed bag. Pat it dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture when cooking.
Can I Substitute the Provolone Cheese?
Absolutely! Mozzarella, fontina, or even pepper jack can be delicious alternatives if you want a milder, creamier, or spicier flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Philly Sandwich Filling?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before adding fresh cheese and toasting your bread.
Is It Okay to Make These Sandwiches Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat the filling and melt the cheese just before assembling the sandwiches for the best taste and texture.
Conclusion
Chicken Philly Sandwiches are a delicious twist on a classic, combining tender chicken, sautéed peppers, onions, and melted cheese in a warm hoagie roll. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual weekend lunch. For more flavorful chicken recipes, try the creamy and indulgent Easy Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken, the comforting Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice, the savory Easy Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry, or the satisfying Easy Grilled Chicken Club Sandwich. Each is simple to make and perfect for any occasion.
