
Dig into the ultimate comfort food dinner with this chicken cheesesteak skillet. All the cozy, melty goodness of a Philadelphia cheesesteak without the fuss—plus a hearty helping of veggies. It delivers all those classic sandwich flavors right from one pan, making weeknight dinner feel special.
When I want that classic hoagie flavor but need something faster and lighter, this skillet never lets me down. My family goes wild for the gooey cheese topping every single time.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: for sautéing and building rich flavor look for extra virgin for best taste
- Yellow onion: brings sweetness and depth choose one that feels heavy and firm
- Red bell pepper: adds color and mellow bite make sure it is glossy and unblemished
- Green bell pepper: offers sharp fresh flavor pick a pepper with tight skin
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: the lean protein centerpiece select ones with no excess liquid and a pale pink color
- Italian seasoning: for herby complexity check the blend for freshness and aroma
- Smoked paprika: infuses subtle smokiness try to use high quality for richer flavor
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: heighten every single ingredient use flaky salt and freshly cracked pepper if possible
- Provolone cheese: shredded for melting gooeyness opt for a creamy variety that melts well
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep and Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high until shimmering. Add the sliced onion and both bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about seven to eight minutes stirring occasionally until the vegetables are very soft and caramelized in spots. Remove vegetables to a plate and save any juices.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Turn the heat to medium high again. Place sliced chicken in a single layer. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning smoked paprika salt and pepper. Let it cook without moving for two to three minutes to get a deep golden sear.
- Finish Cooking the Chicken:
- Stir the chicken and continue to cook for four to five more minutes until every piece is just cooked through and no pink remains. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer which should read one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit.
- Combine Everything and Add Cheese:
- Return the cooked vegetables and accumulated juices to the skillet with the chicken. Stir well to distribute everything evenly. Spread the mixture into a smooth layer then sprinkle provolone cheese over the top.
- Melt the Cheese:
- Cover the skillet with a lid or foil. Reduce the heat to medium low. Let the cheese melt for two to three minutes until it is gooey and velvety. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

The smoked paprika is my secret favorite ingredient. It gives the chicken and peppers a restaurant worthy flavor. I always remember serving this skillet straight from the pan on family movie nights everyone grabbing their share while the cheese was still bubbling.
Storage Tips
Store leftover chicken cheesesteak skillet in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to revive the melty texture and prevent the chicken from drying out.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap provolone with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Swiss cheese for a different cheesy finish. For extra flavor, try adding sliced mushrooms with the peppers. Chicken thighs work well if you prefer dark meat, offering juicy tenderness.

Serving Suggestions
Pile the cheesy chicken and peppers onto toasted hoagie rolls for an authentic Philly experience that is totally fork friendly. For a gluten free meal, spoon everything over white or brown rice, or tuck into a baked potato. Garlic bread and a big green salad on the side make great companions.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness to the skillet. Slice thinly and cook as directed.
- → Which cheese alternatives can I use?
Provolone melts beautifully, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack are also delicious choices for this skillet.
- → How should I serve this dish?
Enjoy the chicken and pepper mixture directly from the skillet, on toasted hoagie rolls, rice, or with garlic bread.
- → How can I make slicing chicken easier?
Place chicken breasts in the freezer for 15–20 minutes before slicing to help achieve thin, even strips.
- → How long do leftovers keep and how do I reheat them?
Store in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water until warmed through.
- → Are there ways to add extra flavor?
Try adding garlic, mushrooms, or extra smoked paprika for more complexity, or finish with fresh parsley.