Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak is the perfect twist on a classic favorite. Combining the bold flavors of spicy buffalo sauce with tender chicken and melty cheese, this sandwich delivers a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to beat. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the best of both worlds—comfort food with a kick.
We love how easy it is to make this recipe at home, using simple ingredients that come together quickly. Whether you’re looking for a game day snack or a satisfying weeknight meal, this Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak hits the spot every time. Let’s dive into this flavorful fusion that’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak, we need fresh, flavorful ingredients that capture the spicy tang, tender texture, and melty cheese goodness of this iconic sandwich. Below we break down everything necessary for each component of our recipe.
For the Buffalo Chicken
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (choose your preferred heat level)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk, heated
- 1 1/2 cups shredded provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt to taste
For the Philly Cheese Steak Assembly
- 4 hoagie rolls, split lengthwise but not all the way through
- 1 medium green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Celery sticks for serving
- Blue cheese crumbles
- Sliced jalapeños
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
- Lettuce or tomato slices for extra crunch and freshness
| Component | Key Ingredients | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Buffalo Chicken | Chicken, buffalo sauce, garlic powder | Spicy, tender chicken base |
| Cheese Sauce | Butter, flour, milk, provolone, cheddar | Creamy, melty, cheesy layer |
| Philly Cheese Steak | Hoagie rolls, peppers, onions | Classic sandwich assembly |
| Optional Toppings | Celery, blue cheese, jalapeños, dressings | Extra flavor, crunch, and cooling dips |
By organizing our ingredients this way, we ensure every bite of our Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak is packed with bold flavor and satisfying textures.
Equipment Needed
To make the Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak with ease and confidence, having the right equipment is essential. Here is the list of tools we recommend using to prepare this flavorful sandwich:
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
Perfect for cooking the chicken, peppers, and onions evenly with plenty of control over heat.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
Essential for slicing the chicken breasts thinly and chopping vegetables precisely for consistent texture.
- Mixing Bowl
To combine the shredded cooked chicken with buffalo wing sauce thoroughly for even flavor distribution.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon
Useful for stirring and sautéing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
To ensure exact quantities of sauces and cheese for a balanced taste.
- Cheese Grater
If using block cheese, this will help us shred it fresh for melting into the sandwich.
- Toaster Oven or Oven (optional)
Ideal for toasting hoagie rolls to a perfect golden-brown crust before assembly.
- Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper (optional)
Can be used to wrap the sandwiches if serving later or keeping them warm.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Skillet | Cook chicken, peppers, and onions evenly |
| Cutting Board & Knife | Slice chicken thin & chop vegetables |
| Mixing Bowl | Combine chicken with buffalo sauce |
| Spatula/Wooden Spoon | Stir and sauté ingredients gently |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Measure sauce & cheese accurately |
| Cheese Grater | Grate cheese fresh for melting |
| Oven / Toaster Oven | Toast hoagie rolls to crispy perfection |
| Aluminum Foil / Parchment | Keep sandwiches warm or wrap for serving |
Pro Tip: For the best melt and flavor, use a non-stick skillet and preheat the oven when toasting your hoagie rolls. This helps us achieve that signature gooey cheese and crispy bread contrast essential for the Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak experience.
Prep Work
Before we dive into cooking, careful prep work ensures every component of our Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak shines. Let’s start by prepping the chicken, vegetables, and cheese sauce to build layers of bold flavor and creamy texture.
Preparing the Chicken
- Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips about ¼ inch thick to ensure quick, even cooking and tender bite-sized pieces.
- In a medium mixing bowl, toss the chicken strips with:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Set aside to marinate briefly while preparing vegetables to maximize flavor absorption.
- When ready, we’ll cook the chicken in a preheated large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Preparing the Vegetables
- Thinly slice one medium green bell pepper and one medium onion for that classic Philly crunch and sweetness.
- Keep vegetable slices uniform for balanced cooking.
- We suggest prepping optional toppings such as:
- Chopped jalapeños for extra heat
- Celery sticks for crunch alongside the sandwich
- Arrange all vegetables on a cutting board nearby for quick sautéing.
Making the Cheese Sauce
Our rich buffalo cheese sauce binds this sandwich together perfectly.
- Ingredients for the sauce include:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|———————|—————-|
| Shredded cheddar | 1 cup |
| Shredded mozzarella | 1 cup |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz (cubed) |
| Buffalo wing sauce | ⅓ cup |
| Milk | ½ cup | - In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream cheese and milk, stirring until smooth and warm.
- Gradually add shredded cheddar and mozzarella, stirring continuously until melted.
- Stir in buffalo wing sauce thoroughly to infuse creamy heat.
- Keep sauce warm on low heat until assembly.
This prep work sets the foundation to craft a sensational Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak packed with vibrant flavors and irresistible textures.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the perfect Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak with tender chicken, melty cheese sauce, and savory sautéed veggies.
Cooking the Buffalo Chicken
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and let it warm.
- Add the marinated thin chicken strips in a single layer.
- Cook the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes on one side without stirring to get a good sear.
- Flip the strips and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, until cooked through and juices run clear.
- Pour ¼ cup of buffalo wing sauce over the chicken, stirring to coat evenly.
- Cook for 1 more minute until the chicken absorbs the sauce and becomes spicy and flavorful.
- Remove the chicken from heat and set aside.
Sautéing the Peppers and Onions
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add 1 cup sliced green bell peppers and 1 cup thinly sliced onions.
- Sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Sauté the vegetables over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Cook for approximately 6 to 7 minutes until the peppers are tender but slightly crisp and onions are golden and caramelized.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Combining the Ingredients
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) for toasting hoagie rolls.
- Split 4 hoagie rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
- Place the rolls on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5 minutes until slightly crispy.
- Spoon a generous layer of the warm buffalo cheese sauce into the bottom half of each roll.
- Add a layer of the sautéed peppers and onions on top of the cheese sauce.
- Pile the buffalo chicken strips evenly over the vegetables.
- Optionally, sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Close the sandwich with the top half of the hoagie roll.
- Serve immediately with celery sticks or your preferred dipping sauce.
| Step | Time | Temperature | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cook buffalo chicken | 7 to 9 minutes | Medium-high heat | Marinated chicken, buffalo sauce |
| Sauté peppers and onions | 6 to 7 minutes | Medium heat | Green bell peppers, onions |
| Toast hoagie rolls | 5 minutes | 375°F (190°C) | Hoagie rolls |
Assembling the Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak
- Toast the Hoagie Rolls
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Place them on a baking sheet, cut side up. Toast in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes until the edges are crisp and golden. This step ensures a perfect balance of a crunchy exterior and soft interior that holds the fillings well.
- Layer the Buffalo Cheese Sauce
Spoon a generous amount of the warm buffalo cheese sauce onto the bottom half of each toasted hoagie roll. The creamy, spicy sauce acts as the flavorful base, enhancing every bite with melty, zesty goodness.
- Add the Sautéed Vegetables
Evenly distribute the sautéed green bell peppers and onions over the cheese sauce. Their tender sweetness complements the bold buffalo flavors and adds a satisfying texture contrast.
- Place the Buffalo Chicken Strips
Layer the cooked marinated chicken strips on top of the vegetables. Ensure the pieces are spread out evenly to provide consistent flavor and heat throughout the sandwich.
- Optional Toppings
For those who love extra flavor, sprinkle blue cheese crumbles or sliced jalapeños on the chicken. The blue cheese adds a tangy creaminess while jalapeños bring added heat and crunch.
- Close and Serve Immediately
Fold the top half of the hoagie roll over the fillings. Serve the Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak right away with celery sticks or your favorite dipping sauce for a complete, crunchy, creamy, and spicy meal experience.
Assembly Process Overview
| Step | Ingredient/Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Toast hoagie rolls | Hoagie rolls | Crisp exterior to support fillings |
| Spread cheese sauce | Buffalo cheese sauce | Creamy, spicy flavor base |
| Add sautéed veggies | Green bell peppers and onions | Sweetness and texture contrast |
| Layer chicken strips | Buffalo spiced chicken | Main protein with bold flavor |
| Add toppings | Blue cheese, jalapeños (optional) | Enhance tanginess and add heat |
| Close and serve | Fold rolls and serve immediately | Retain warmth and flavor integrity |
Serving Suggestions
To enjoy our Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak at its best, we recommend serving it hot and fresh right out of the skillet and oven. Here are some delicious ways to elevate your meal experience:
- Pair with Celery Sticks: Crisp celery sticks perfectly complement the spicy heat of our buffalo chicken, adding a refreshing crunch that balances the rich and melty cheese sauce.
- Blue Cheese Dressing or Ranch Dip: Serve a small bowl of tangy blue cheese dressing or creamy ranch on the side. These classic dips offer a cooling contrast and enhance the bold flavors.
- Add Pickled Jalapeños: For those who crave extra heat, sprinkle pickled jalapeños over the assembled sandwich or serve alongside. Their vinegary bite intensifies the spice while adding complexity.
- Side of Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a touch of natural sweetness and texture contrast. Their slight caramel flavor pairs exceptionally well with the buffalo sauce.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed in lemon vinaigrette provides a bright and healthy accompaniment.
| Serving Suggestion | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Celery Sticks | Fresh and crunchy | Balances spiciness |
| Blue Cheese or Ranch Dip | Creamy cool dips | Soothes heat, enhances flavor |
| Pickled Jalapeños | Tangy spicy slices | Adds heat and complexity |
| Sweet Potato Fries | Crispy sweet side | Complementary sweet crunch |
| Fresh Garden Salad | Light, citrusy salad | Refreshing contrast |
Tip: For gatherings or game-day parties, we like to serve our Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak as sliders using mini hoagie rolls. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy multiple flavors and keeps portions snack-friendly.
Feel free to experiment with these serving options to customize your meal. Remember, the key to maximizing flavor is serving this sandwich immediately to maintain the perfect blend of gooey cheese, tender chicken, and crisp vegetables.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To keep our Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak fresh and flavorful, proper make-ahead preparation and storage are essential. Here are the best practices to maintain the quality and enjoy this delicious sandwich even after some time.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the Components Separately: Cook the buffalo chicken strips, sauté the vegetables, and make the buffalo cheese sauce ahead of time. Storing them separately will prevent sogginess and maintain texture.
- Use Airtight Containers: Store each component in airtight containers to preserve moisture and prevent cross-flavors.
- Keep Bread Fresh: Toast the hoagie rolls just before assembling to retain their crispiness. Avoid pre-toasting rolls if prepping the meal the day before.
Storage Instructions
| Component | Storage Method | Refrigerator Duration | Freezer Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buffalo Chicken Strips | Airtight container | 3 to 4 days | Up to 2 months |
| Sautéed Vegetables | Airtight container | 3 to 4 days | Up to 2 months |
| Buffalo Cheese Sauce | Sealed jar or container | 3 to 4 days | Up to 1 month |
| Hoagie Rolls | Bread bag or airtight wrap | 2 to 3 days | Up to 1 month |
Pro Tip: Label containers with preparation dates for easy tracking and safety.
Reheating Guidelines
- Chicken and Vegetables: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through to maintain texture.
- Cheese Sauce: Warm slowly over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separating or burning.
- Bread: Toast rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to restore crunchiness before assembling.
Assembly After Storage
When ready to serve, layer the rewarmed chicken, vegetables, and buffalo cheese sauce on freshly toasted hoagie rolls. Add optional toppings like blue cheese or jalapeños to revive the vibrant flavor profile that makes this sandwich stand out.
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, we can enjoy the bold taste and gooey texture of our Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak anytime without compromising quality.
Conclusion
This Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak brings together bold flavors and satisfying textures in a way that’s both easy and rewarding to make at home. Whether it’s for a game day treat or a cozy dinner, this sandwich delivers a perfect balance of spice, cheese, and tender chicken.
By mastering this recipe, we add a versatile and crowd-pleasing option to our meal rotation. It’s a delicious fusion that’s sure to impress and become a favorite go-to whenever we want something hearty and flavorful. Let’s keep enjoying the bold taste and comfort this sandwich offers with every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak?
A Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak is a sandwich that combines tender chicken strips marinated in buffalo sauce with sautéed green bell peppers and onions, topped with a creamy buffalo cheese sauce, all served on toasted hoagie rolls. It’s a spicy, cheesy twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak.
What ingredients do I need to make this sandwich?
You need boneless skinless chicken breasts, buffalo wing sauce, cheddar and mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, milk, hoagie rolls, green bell peppers, onions, and optional toppings like celery sticks, blue cheese crumbles, and jalapeños.
How do I prepare the chicken for this recipe?
Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips and marinate them with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then cook in a non-stick skillet until seared and cooked through.
What is the best way to make the cheese sauce?
Melt shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese together with buffalo wing sauce and milk over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring until smooth and warm.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and store the chicken, vegetables, and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze them. Reheat gently before assembling for best results.
What equipment do I need to make this sandwich?
You will need a large non-stick skillet, cutting board, mixing bowl, measuring cups, and an oven or toaster to toast the hoagie rolls.
How should I assemble the Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheese Steak?
Toast hoagie rolls until crispy, spread with warm buffalo cheese sauce, layer sautéed bell peppers and onions, add the buffalo chicken strips, and top with optional blue cheese or jalapeños.
What side dishes pair well with this sandwich?
Serve with crispy celery sticks, blue cheese or ranch dip, pickled jalapeños, crispy sweet potato fries, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy when stored?
Store the components separately in airtight containers to maintain textures—keep chicken, veggies, and cheese sauce apart until ready to assemble and serve.
What are some tips for the perfect sandwich texture?
Use a non-stick skillet to cook the chicken, preheat the oven to toast rolls for crispiness, and serve the sandwich immediately to keep cheese gooey and vegetables crunchy.