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This hearty Chicken Philly Sandwich recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal right in your kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, caramelized peppers and onions, all smothered in melty provolone creates a sandwich that satisfies those comfort food cravings without requiring special skills or equipment.
I first made these sandwiches when looking for a quick dinner solution after a long workday. Now they've become our Friday night tradition when we want something that feels like takeout but is much fresher and more affordable.
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken breasts or thighs provide the protein foundation. Thighs offer more flavor and moisture while breasts are leaner
- Avocado oil has a high smoke point perfect for the hot pan needed to get proper caramelization
- Bell peppers both red and green add sweetness color and vitamin C to balance the richness
- Onion creates essential flavor depth and sweetness when caramelized properly
- Italian seasoning and garlic powder infuse aromatic flavor without requiring a full spice cabinet
- Provolone cheese melts beautifully while adding tangy depth to complement the chicken
- Sausage rolls or sub rolls provide the perfect vessel with a slightly crisp exterior and soft interior
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Chicken
- Generously season your chicken with salt pepper and garlic powder allowing the meat to sit at room temperature while you prep other ingredients. This ensures even cooking and allows the seasonings to penetrate the meat before cooking.
- Prepare the Vegetables
- Slice bell peppers and onions as thinly as possible for quick cooking and easy eating. Consistent thin slices ensure everything cooks at the same rate giving you that perfect texture where the vegetables are tender but not mushy.
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat your skillet until hot then add oil and cook chicken 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. The chicken should register 165°F internally but remain juicy. Tenting with foil after cooking keeps it warm and allows juices to redistribute.
- Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pan with all those flavorful chicken bits cook the vegetable mixture with seasonings at medium high heat. This temperature creates slight charring on the edges which develops deep savory flavors reminiscent of restaurant quality sandwiches.
- Combine and Melt
- Return the sliced chicken to the pan with the vegetables creating two distinct piles shaped like your bread. The residual heat gently warms the chicken without overcooking while the cheese melts into every nook creating that signature gooey texture.
- Assemble the Sandwiches
- Warm your rolls for just 20 seconds to soften them slightly then carefully transfer each chicken vegetable cheese stack into a roll. The warm bread slightly steams as it envelops the filling creating the perfect cohesive sandwich experience.
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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the moment when the provolone begins to melt and drape over the colorful vegetables and chicken. My husband claims he married me partly because of these sandwiches which I started making when we were dating.
Make It Ahead
This recipe works beautifully for meal prep situations. Cook the chicken and vegetable mixture then store separately from the cheese and rolls. When ready to eat simply reheat the chicken mixture in a skillet add the cheese to melt then assemble on freshly warmed rolls. The components keep well refrigerated for up to three days without losing quality.
Easy Substitutions
While provolone offers that classic Philly experience American cheese or even Cheez Whiz provides authentic alternatives each creating a different but equally delicious sandwich. For the protein shaved steak can replace chicken for a more traditional Philly experience or portobello mushrooms make an excellent vegetarian version with similar texture and umami flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These sandwiches pair perfectly with crispy french fries or sweet potato fries for a classic restaurant experience. For a lighter meal serve alongside a simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness. For entertaining cut the sandwiches diagonally and secure with toothpicks to create shareable appetizer portions that disappear quickly at gatherings.
The Philly Connection
While purists might argue that a true Philly cheesesteak must contain beef this chicken variation has become increasingly popular in Philadelphia itself. The technique of cooking the meat and vegetables on a flat top then covering with cheese stems from the original South Philly sandwich shops of the 1930s. This homemade version captures that spirit while being accessible to home cooks.
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Common Questions
- → What type of bread works best for Chicken Philly sandwiches?
Traditional Amoroso rolls, deli subs, or hoagies work well, but the recipe recommends Sara Lee Artesano Sausage Rolls. The ideal bread should be soft inside with a slightly firm exterior to hold the fillings without becoming soggy.
- → Can I use different cheese for my Chicken Philly sandwich?
Absolutely! While provolone is used in this recipe, authentic alternatives include Cheese Whiz or White American cheese. Each provides a different flavor profile and melt consistency, so choose based on your preference.
- → What's the best way to slice chicken for a Philly sandwich?
For best results, cook the chicken pieces whole first, then slice them thinly against the grain after cooking. This helps retain moisture and ensures proper cooking while giving you those classic thin strips for your sandwich.
- → Can I make Chicken Philly sandwiches ahead of time?
The chicken and vegetable mixture can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated. When ready to serve, reheat in a skillet, top with cheese until melted, and add to fresh rolls. For best quality, assemble just before eating.
- → How can I make these sandwiches spicier?
To add heat, incorporate sliced jalapeños with the bell peppers and onions, add a dash of hot sauce to the vegetable mixture, or sprinkle red pepper flakes during cooking. You could also serve with spicy mayo or pepper jack cheese instead of provolone.
- → What sides pair well with Chicken Philly sandwiches?
Classic pairings include french fries, onion rings, potato chips, or a simple side salad. For a healthier option, roasted vegetables or a light coleslaw complement the sandwich without overwhelming its flavors.