Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches

These Chicken Cheese Steak Sandwiches are a satisfying and flavorful meal that combines tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and melted provolone cheese. Perfect for a quick dinner, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit with the whole family!

Ingredients

• For the Chicken and Vegetables:
• Chicken breast or thighs: 1 lb, thinly sliced for tender bites.
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp, for cooking the chicken and vegetables.
• Onion: 1, thinly sliced, adds sweetness and flavor.
• Bell pepper: 1 (any color), thinly sliced, adds a crisp and slightly sweet flavor.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, for a fragrant touch.
• Paprika: 1 tsp, for a hint of smokiness.
• Salt: 1/2 tsp, enhances the flavors of the dish.
• Black pepper: 1/2 tsp, for seasoning.
• Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp, adds a subtle herb flavor.
• Dried thyme: 1/2 tsp, for an earthy flavor note.
• Soy sauce (optional): 1 tbsp, for extra umami and depth of flavor.
• For the Sandwiches:
• Hoagie rolls or sub rolls: 4, to hold the hearty filling.
• Provolone cheese: 4 slices (or American cheese), for a melty, cheesy topping.
• Optional toppings: Sautéed mushrooms, pickled jalapeños, or extra onions and bell peppers, for added flavor and customization.

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the sliced chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Add the thinly sliced onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.

Step 5: Add Soy Sauce (Optional)

If desired, drizzle the soy sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture for extra depth of flavor. Stir well to combine.

Step 6: Toast the Rolls

If desired, lightly toast the hoagie rolls in the oven or a toaster oven until they are crispy and warm.

Step 7: Assemble the Sandwiches

Place a slice of provolone cheese on the bottom half of each toasted roll. Pile the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture on top of the cheese.

Step 8: Melt the Cheese

Place the assembled sandwiches under a broiler or in a toaster oven for 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9: Serve

Add any desired optional toppings like sautéed mushrooms, pickled jalapeños, or extra onions and bell peppers. Serve the sandwiches hot.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve these sandwiches hot for the best flavor, with melted cheese and warm fillings.
• Pair with a side of fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Store leftover chicken and vegetable mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, warm the chicken mixture in a skillet over medium heat before assembling sandwiches.

Helpful Notes

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the chicken mixture while cooking.
• Try using a mix of bell pepper colors (red, yellow, green) for a more colorful and visually appealing sandwich.
• If you prefer a richer flavor, replace provolone with a sharper cheese like cheddar or pepper jack.

Tips from Well-known Chefs

• Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests using a cast-iron skillet for a nice sear on the chicken, which adds extra flavor.
• Chef Bobby Flay recommends letting the cheese melt directly over the chicken in the skillet before adding it to the roll for a gooey, evenly melted result.
• Chef Emeril Lagasse advises lightly buttering the hoagie rolls before toasting for a crisp, golden finish.