Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is the perfect fusion of two classic favorites. We’ve taken the bold flavors of spicy buffalo chicken and combined them with the cheesy, savory goodness of a traditional Philly cheesesteak. The result is a mouthwatering sandwich that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion.
This recipe is easy to make and delivers that iconic Philly cheesesteak experience with a spicy twist. Whether you’re craving a game day snack or a hearty dinner, this buffalo chicken version will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Let’s dive into creating this irresistible sandwich that brings together the best of both worlds.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak, we need fresh, bold ingredients that capture the spicy zest of buffalo chicken combined with the hearty flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak. Below are the components divided into their essential parts for easy preparation.
For the Buffalo Chicken
We want the chicken to be flavorful and tender with that iconic buffalo sauce tang.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (choose your preferred spice level)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Philly Cheesesteak
The base of our sandwich relies on a balanced mix of savory ingredients for that authentic Philly taste.
- 4 hoagie rolls or sub rolls, split and lightly toasted
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 large green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, thinly sliced (optional but recommended for added flavor)
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter for sautéing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Toppings and Condiments
These extras elevate the sandwich and bring together the buffalo and cheesesteak elements perfectly.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Blue cheese crumbles | 1/4 cup | Optional but adds creamy tang |
| Ranch or blue cheese dressing | 1/4 cup | For drizzling or dipping |
| Celery sticks | 4-5 sticks | For serving on the side |
| Shredded lettuce | 1/2 cup | Adds crunch and freshness |
Each ingredient plays a key role in bringing out the bold flavors and textures that make our Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak unforgettable. Let’s prepare everything thoughtfully to maximize taste and satisfaction.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak efficiently and with precision, having the right equipment is essential. The tools we select ensure every step runs smoothly from cooking to assembling, guaranteeing a flavorful and perfectly textured sandwich.
Essential Cookware and Tools
- Skillet or Cast Iron Pan
We use a large skillet or cast iron pan to cook the chicken, sauté the onions, peppers, and mushrooms. This provides even heat distribution for caramelizing the vegetables and cooking the chicken thoroughly.
- Mixing Bowl
A medium-sized mixing bowl is necessary to toss the chicken with buffalo wing sauce and seasonings. This allows us to coat every piece uniformly, ensuring balanced flavor.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
Precise slicing is key. We use a sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife to thinly slice the cooked chicken, onions, and bell peppers for that true Philly cheesesteak texture.
- Spatula or Tongs
To stir and flip the chicken and vegetables in the pan, we prefer a heat-resistant spatula or tongs. This keeps the ingredients intact and evenly browned.
- Butter Knife
For spreading butter on the hoagie rolls before toasting, a butter knife does the job cleanly and evenly.
- Oven or Toaster Oven
To melt the provolone cheese on the assembled sandwich and lightly toast the hoagie rolls, an oven or toaster oven is necessary for controlled heating.
Summary Table of Equipment
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Skillet or Cast Iron Pan | Cook chicken and sauté vegetables |
| Mixing Bowl | Toss chicken with buffalo sauce and seasonings |
| Cutting Board & Knife | Slice chicken and vegetables thinly |
| Spatula or Tongs | Stir and flip ingredients during cooking |
| Butter Knife | Spread butter on rolls |
| Oven or Toaster Oven | Melt cheese and toast hoagie rolls |
Having these tools ready makes crafting our Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak seamless. Each one plays a crucial role in bringing together the bold flavors and iconic textures this sandwich demands.
Preparation
Let’s get every component of our Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak ready to create a perfectly balanced sandwich bursting with bold flavors. We’ll prepare the buffalo chicken, slice the vegetables, and prep the bread in a seamless flow.
Preparing the Buffalo Chicken
First, we start with the star of the sandwich, the buffalo chicken. Follow these steps for juicy, tender chicken packed with spicy buffalo flavor:
- Slice chicken breasts into thin, even strips to ensure quick and uniform cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken strips with:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken strips.
- Cook, stirring frequently, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned—about 6-8 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and immediately toss the chicken with ½ cup buffalo wing sauce until fully coated.
“This coating step is crucial to lock in that signature buffalo spice that defines our buffalo chicken Philly cheesesteak.”
Slicing the Vegetables
Vegetables add crunch, sweetness, and earthiness to complement our spicy chicken. Precision slicing helps cook them evenly.
| Vegetable | Preparation | Thickness |
|---|---|---|
| Onions | Peel and slice into thin rings | 1/8 inch |
| Green bell peppers | Remove seeds and ribs, slice thin | 1/8 inch |
| Mushrooms | Clean with damp cloth, slice thin | 1/8 inch |
- Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a separate skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
- Sauté gently, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are soft and caramelized—about 8-10 minutes.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness.
Preparing the Bread
The bread acts as our vessel, carrying every savory bite. Proper prep ensures a crunchy exterior without losing the bread’s soft interior.
- Choose hoagie rolls preferably fresh for the best taste and texture.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through, creating a hinge.
- Butter the cut sides lightly with softened butter for a golden, crispy finish once toasted.
- Toast the rolls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes or until edges are crisp and aroma is toasted.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create our Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak with perfectly cooked buffalo chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and a melted, savory finish.
Cooking the Buffalo Chicken
- Slice the boneless skinless chicken breasts into thin strips about 1/4-inch thick for even cooking.
- Season the chicken strips with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the chicken strips in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes without stirring to let them brown.
- Flip the chicken strips and cook another 3-4 minutes until fully cooked and golden brown on all sides.
- Remove from heat and transfer the chicken to a mixing bowl.
- Pour 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
“The buffalo wing sauce locks in the bold flavor that defines our sandwich.“
Sautéing the Peppers and Onions
- Using the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon butter and melt over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions, green bell peppers, and mushrooms (about 1 cup each).
- Sprinkle with a pinch of salt to draw out moisture.
- Sauté the vegetables for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are soft, caramelized, and slightly golden.
- Remove the skillet from heat and set the vegetables aside.
| Ingredient | Preparation | Cooking Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Onion | Thinly sliced | 7-8 minutes | Should be caramelized |
| Green Bell Pepper | Thinly sliced | 7-8 minutes | Cook until soft |
| Mushrooms | Sliced | 7-8 minutes | Golden edges preferred |
Assembling the Philly Cheesesteak
- Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise, keeping one side attached to create a pocket.
- Spread butter evenly on the inside of each roll.
- Toast the rolls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes or until golden and crisp.
- Fill each toasted roll with a generous layer of sautéed peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
- Add the buffalo chicken strips on top of the vegetables.
- Place 2-3 slices of provolone cheese over the chicken filling.
- Return the assembled sandwiches to the oven for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese melts and becomes gooey.
- (Optional) Top with blue cheese crumbles, ranch, or blue cheese dressing and shredded lettuce before serving.
“Melting the provolone cheese over warm buffalo chicken unites the spicy and creamy every bite.”
This assembly process maximizes flavor layering and texture contrast for a Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak that delivers on every craving.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak experience, we recommend pairing the sandwich with sides that complement its bold, spicy flavors and satisfy a variety of taste preferences. Here are our top Serving Suggestions:
1. Classic Crispy Sides
Crispy textures contrast beautifully with the tender buffalo chicken and melted provolone. Consider:
- Golden French fries seasoned with a dash of garlic powder or smoked paprika
- Crispy sweet potato fries for a subtle sweetness that balances the heat
- Onion rings with a light, crunchy batter
2. Fresh and Cooling Accompaniments
To offset the heat from the buffalo sauce, we suggest fresh veggies and cool dips:
- Celery sticks and carrot sticks paired with blue cheese or ranch dressing
- A crisp side salad with shredded lettuce, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes tossed in a light vinaigrette
3. Creamy and Tangy Dips
Add richness to the meal with dips that enhance the Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak:
| Dip Type | Flavor Profile | Perfect Pairing With |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Cheese | Creamy, tangy with slight sharpness | Celery sticks, sandwich bites |
| Ranch Dressing | Cool, herby, and smooth | French fries, carrot sticks |
| Garlic Aioli | Bold, creamy with a hint of garlic | Sweet potato fries, onion rings |
4. Beverage Pairings
To cleanse the palate and complement the sandwich’s spice:
- Iced tea with lemon or peach flavor
- Crisp craft beer such as a pale ale or lager
- Sparkling water infused with lime or cucumber
5. Presentation Tips
Make your plating visually inviting:
- Arrange sandwiches on a wooden board with sides in small bowls
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions on top of the sandwich
- Serve drinks chilled in clear glasses to highlight color contrast
Pro Tip: Serve the sandwich immediately after melting the provolone to enjoy gooey cheese with every bite.
Together these carefully selected Serving Suggestions bring out the best of our Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak flavor profile, balancing texture, temperature, and taste for an optimal dining experience.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy our Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak with minimal last-minute fuss, planning ahead is key. Here are practical make-ahead tips to keep the flavors vibrant and the preparation smooth.
Prepare the Buffalo Chicken in Advance
Cook the boneless skinless chicken breasts fully, then shred and toss with the buffalo wing sauce. Store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This step can be done up to 2 days before serving. When ready, gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, maintaining that signature spicy and tangy flavor.
Chop and Sauté Vegetables Early
Sauté the onions, green bell peppers, and mushrooms until they are tender and caramelized. Place these cooked vegetables in a sealed container and refrigerate. You can prepare these up to 1 day in advance. Reheat them alongside the buffalo chicken before assembling the sandwich to retain warmth and texture.
Cheese and Bread Storage
To ensure freshness:
- Keep provolone cheese slices wrapped and chilled separately. Avoid freezing as it can alter the texture.
- Store hoagie rolls in a cool, dry place or freeze them for longer storage. Bring them to room temperature before assembling to avoid sogginess.
Make-Ahead Timing Summary
| Make-Ahead Step | Storage Method | Max Storage Time | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buffalo chicken (cooked/shredded) | Airtight container in fridge | 2 days | Medium heat skillet, stir often |
| Sautéed vegetables | Airtight container in fridge | 1 day | Warm with buffalo chicken |
| Provolone cheese | Wrapped in refrigerator | 3-5 days | Use room temperature |
| Hoagie rolls | Room temp or freezer | 2 days (room temp), 1 month (frozen) | Thaw at room temp |
Assembly Tips for Make-Ahead
Assemble sandwiches just before serving for the best texture. The cheese melts best when layered on the hot buffalo chicken and vegetables inside the warm hoagie roll. This quick final step ensures the Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak bursts with fresh flavor and melty goodness just when you are ready to indulge.
“Prepping components in advance saves time while letting us savor the bold, spicy, and savory layers that make our Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak truly special.“
Conclusion
The Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak brings together bold flavors and satisfying textures in a way that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual night or a special gathering, this sandwich delivers a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and cheesy goodness.
With the right prep and a few simple steps, it’s easy to make this crowd-pleaser a regular in our meal rotation. Let’s keep experimenting with flavors and enjoy every bite of this delicious twist on a classic favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?
A Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is a sandwich that combines spicy buffalo chicken with traditional Philly cheesesteak ingredients like sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and melted provolone cheese on a hoagie roll. It offers a flavorful twist on the classic cheesesteak.
What ingredients do I need to make this sandwich?
You’ll need boneless skinless chicken breasts, buffalo wing sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onions, green bell peppers, mushrooms, provolone cheese, hoagie rolls, and butter. Optional toppings include blue cheese crumbles, ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, and shredded lettuce.
What equipment is essential for preparing this sandwich?
Basic equipment includes a large skillet or cast iron pan, a mixing bowl, a cutting board, and a sharp knife. These tools help with cooking the chicken, sautéing vegetables, and assembling the sandwich.
Can I prepare parts of the sandwich ahead of time?
Yes. You can cook and shred the buffalo chicken up to two days in advance and sauté vegetables up to one day prior. Store them in airtight containers, and assemble the sandwich just before serving for the best taste and texture.
What sides and dips go well with the Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?
Popular sides include French fries, sweet potato fries, and onion rings. Fresh celery and carrot sticks with dips like blue cheese, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli are excellent accompaniments to balance the sandwich’s spice.
How should I serve the sandwich for the best experience?
Serve the Buffalo Chicken Philly Cheesesteak immediately after melting the provolone cheese to enjoy the perfect texture and flavor. Pair it with refreshing drinks like iced tea, craft beer, or sparkling water for an enhanced meal.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover buffalo chicken and sautéed veggies separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Hoagie rolls and provolone should be kept in their original packaging or wrapped tightly to stay fresh. Reheat the chicken and veggies before assembling leftovers.