The Chicken Philly sandwich is a mouth-watering twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak. This delectable sandwich features tender and juicy chicken, sautéed with onions and bell peppers, and served on a hoagie roll with melted cheese. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of making the perfect Chicken Philly sandwich.
Understanding the Origins of the Philly Cheesesteak
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a brief look at the origins of the Philly cheesesteak. The Philly cheesesteak is a iconic sandwich that originated in Philadelphia in the 1930s. The original recipe consisted of thinly sliced beefsteak, sautéed with onions and served on a hoagie roll. Over time, cheese was added to the sandwich, and it became a staple of Philadelphia cuisine.
The Evolution of the Chicken Philly Sandwich
In recent years, the Chicken Philly sandwich has gained popularity as a variation of the classic Philly cheesesteak. This sandwich features chicken breast or thighs, sautéed with onions and bell peppers, and served on a hoagie roll with melted cheese. The Chicken Philly sandwich is a great option for those who prefer chicken over beef or are looking for a leaner protein source.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make the perfect Chicken Philly sandwich, you will need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 large bell peppers, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 4 slices of cheese (such as provolone or mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- A large skillet or sauté pan
- A cutting board
- A knife
- A cheese slicer (optional)
Choosing the Right Cheese
The type of cheese you use can make or break the flavor of your Chicken Philly sandwich. Here are a few options for cheese:
- Provolone: This is a classic choice for Philly cheesesteaks and Chicken Philly sandwiches. Provolone has a mild, buttery flavor that melts well and adds a rich texture to the sandwich.
- Mozzarella: This is another popular choice for Chicken Philly sandwiches. Mozzarella has a mild flavor and a creamy texture that melts well and adds a smooth texture to the sandwich.
- Cheddar: If you prefer a sharper cheese, cheddar is a great option. Cheddar has a rich, tangy flavor that adds a nice depth to the sandwich.
Preparing the Chicken
Before you start cooking the chicken, you need to prepare it. Here’s how:
Slicing the Chicken
Slice the chicken into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. This will help the chicken cook evenly and quickly.
Seasoning the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the chicken strips, making sure they are evenly coated.
Cooking the Chicken and Vegetables
Now it’s time to cook the chicken and vegetables. Here’s how:
Heating the Skillet
Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt, then tilt the pan to make sure the butter covers the entire surface.
Cooking the Chicken
Add the chicken strips to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Cooking the Onions and Bell Peppers
Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned.
Adding the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here’s how:
Toasting the Hoagie Rolls
Preheat a broiler or toaster oven to 350°F. Place the hoagie rolls on a baking sheet and toast for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Assembling the Sandwich
Slice the toasted hoagie rolls in half and place them on a flat surface. Add a few slices of cheese to the bottom half of the roll, followed by a few slices of chicken, some sautéed onions and bell peppers, and finally the top half of the roll.
Melting the Cheese
Place the sandwiches under the broiler or in the toaster oven and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your Chicken Philly sandwich to the next level:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Add some sliced mushrooms or jalapeños to the skillet with the onions and bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as American or Swiss, for a unique flavor.
- Add some marinara sauce or hot sauce to the sandwich for an extra kick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making Chicken Philly sandwiches:
- Overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and tough.
- Not toasting the hoagie rolls, which can make the sandwich feel soggy and flat.
- Not melting the cheese, which can make the sandwich feel cold and unappetizing.
Conclusion
The Chicken Philly sandwich is a delicious and satisfying twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a mouth-watering sandwich that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Remember to use high-quality ingredients, cook the chicken and vegetables to perfection, and assemble the sandwich with care. With a little practice, you’ll be making Chicken Philly sandwiches like a pro!
What is a Chicken Philly Sandwich?
A Chicken Philly Sandwich is a variation of the classic Philly cheesesteak, but instead of using thinly sliced beef, it features grilled or sautéed chicken breast. The chicken is typically sliced into thin strips and cooked with onions, bell peppers, and a blend of spices, then served on a hoagie roll with melted cheese.
The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and gooey cheese on a soft, crusty roll makes for a satisfying and flavorful sandwich. Chicken Philly Sandwiches are a popular alternative to traditional cheesesteaks and can be found on menus in restaurants and bars throughout the United States.
What type of cheese is best for a Chicken Philly Sandwich?
The type of cheese to use on a Chicken Philly Sandwich is largely a matter of personal preference. Some popular options include provolone, cheddar, and mozzarella. Provolone is a classic choice, as it melts well and has a mild, buttery flavor that complements the chicken and vegetables.
Other cheeses, such as American or pepper jack, can also be used. If you want to add a bit of spice to your sandwich, pepper jack is a good option. Experiment with different types of cheese to find the one that you enjoy the most.
How do I slice the chicken for a Chicken Philly Sandwich?
To slice the chicken for a Chicken Philly Sandwich, start by cooking the chicken breast to an internal temperature of 165°F. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips. Use a sharp knife to slice the chicken against the grain, which will help to keep it tender and juicy.
Aim for slices that are about 1/4 inch thick. This will help the chicken to cook evenly and quickly when you add it to the sandwich. You can also slice the chicken into smaller pieces if you prefer a more uniform texture.
What vegetables are typically used in a Chicken Philly Sandwich?
The vegetables used in a Chicken Philly Sandwich are typically sliced onions and bell peppers. These vegetables are sautéed with the chicken and add a sweet, crunchy texture to the sandwich. You can use either green or red bell peppers, depending on your preference.
Other vegetables, such as mushrooms or jalapeños, can also be added to the sandwich. If you want to add some extra flavor, you can sauté the vegetables in a bit of oil before adding the chicken.
How do I assemble a Chicken Philly Sandwich?
To assemble a Chicken Philly Sandwich, start by slicing the hoagie roll in half and toasting it lightly. This will help to melt the cheese and add crunch to the sandwich. Next, add a layer of cheese to the bottom half of the roll, followed by a layer of chicken and vegetables.
Finally, add the top half of the roll and place the sandwich under the broiler for a few minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also add condiments, such as mayonnaise or hot sauce, to the sandwich for extra flavor.
Can I make a Chicken Philly Sandwich in advance?
While it’s best to assemble and cook a Chicken Philly Sandwich just before serving, you can prepare some of the ingredients in advance. For example, you can slice the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
You can also cook the chicken and vegetables in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to assemble the sandwich. However, it’s best to assemble and cook the sandwich just before serving, as this will help to ensure that the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
How do I store leftover Chicken Philly Sandwiches?
If you have leftover Chicken Philly Sandwiches, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. To store, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator.
You can also freeze leftover Chicken Philly Sandwiches for up to a month. To freeze, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat the sandwich, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven or microwave.