There’s something magical about the combination of flavors in a Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. This dish takes me back to a bustling weekend in Philadelphia, where my husband and I stumbled upon a charming little diner on the outskirts of the city. It was a chilly fall day, and we were both craving something warm and hearty. As we walked through the door, the tantalizing aroma of caramelized onions and melting cheese greeted us, drawing us in like a comforting embrace.
We took a seat by the window, watching the world pass by as we ordered the house specialty—a classic Philly Cheesesteak. The first bite was pure bliss: tender strips of chicken smothered in creamy provolone, mingling with the sweetness of the onions and the subtle kick of black pepper. That meal stayed with me, and I knew I had to recreate it in my kitchen. But instead of replicating the sandwich, I decided to transform it into a casserole—a dish that could be shared with loved ones around the dinner table.
Back home, as I prepared the ingredients, I found myself thinking of my family gatherings—those evenings when everyone would come together, sharing stories and laughter over a home-cooked meal. The Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Casserole became one of those recipes that I could always count on to bring everyone closer. It’s simple, yet bursting with flavor—a true crowd-pleaser that never fails to evoke warm memories of that diner in Philadelphia.
This casserole is now a staple in our household, especially on busy weeknights when we crave something delicious and easy to prepare. The layers of tender chicken, golden onions, and melted cheese make it a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve at casual family dinners or when entertaining guests. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of that cozy diner and the joy of discovering new flavors with someone you love.
So, whether you’re reminiscing about a memorable trip or simply looking for a comforting meal to share with family, this Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is sure to hit the spot. It’s a dish that’s made to be savored and shared—just like the best memories.
Preparing Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
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Ingredients
- 6 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 tbsp cooking oil
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 4 onions, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- In a large casserole dish, coat the sliced onions with the cooking oil. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the onions are soft and caramelized.
- While the onions roast, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl.
- When the onions are done, mix them into the chicken mixture directly in the casserole dish.
- Layer the provolone cheese slices evenly over the top of the chicken and onion mixture.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Storing Suggestion
Store any leftover Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Cooking Tips
For extra flavor, you can sauté the garlic with the onions before roasting them. You can also add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the chicken mixture for a deeper, savory taste.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside garlic bread or over cooked pasta.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer, you can substitute mozzarella or Swiss cheese for provolone. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream, and opt for low-fat cheese.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, add roasted bell peppers or mushrooms to the casserole for a seasonal twist. In the fall, mix in some sautéed kale or spinach for added nutrients.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy from the cheese and mayonnaise. To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese and mayonnaise. If you’re gluten-sensitive, ensure the mayonnaise and cheese are gluten-free.
FAQ:
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with cooked turkey, beef, or even a meat alternative for a different flavor profile.
What can I use if I don’t have provolone cheese?
If you don’t have provolone, mozzarella, Swiss, or even cheddar cheese can be used as alternatives.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add some crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, follow the recipe instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the fully assembled casserole before baking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.
What side dishes go well with this casserole?
Serve this casserole with a side of roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or garlic bread to round out the meal.
Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Ingredients
- 6 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 tbsp cooking oil
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 8 oz provolone cheese sliced
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 4 onions sliced
- 2 garlic cloves finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F.
- In a large casserole dish, toss the sliced onions with the cooking oil. Place in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through until the onions become tender and golden brown.
- While the onions are cooking, mix the shredded chicken with the mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped garlic, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
- Once the onions are ready, take them out of the oven and combine them with the chicken mixture directly in the casserole dish.
- Spread the provolone cheese slices evenly over the top of the chicken and onion mixture.
- Lower the oven temperature to 375°F and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
