Introduction
A Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is already delicious, but the best sauce for Chicken Philly can take it to another level. Whether you prefer classic cheese sauce, a spicy kick, or a tangy BBQ flavor, the right sauce enhances the juicy chicken, sautéed onions, peppers, and melted cheese.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best sauces for Chicken Philly, their flavor profiles, how to make them at home, and what sauces popular restaurants use in their Chicken Philly Cheesesteaks. Let’s find your perfect match!
What Makes a Great Sauce for Chicken Philly?
Why Sauce is Essential for Chicken Philly
The sauce isn’t just an extra—it’s a key element that:
✔ Enhances flavor by adding depth and richness.
✔ Improves texture by providing creaminess or a tangy kick.
✔ Complements the ingredients without overpowering the chicken, cheese, and veggies.
Choosing the Best Sauce: Key Factors
| Factor | Importance |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Should complement the cheesesteak ingredients. |
| Texture | Should be smooth and easy to spread or drizzle. |
| Moisture Level | Enough to keep the sandwich juicy but not soggy. |
| Heat Factor | Consider mild, medium, or spicy based on preference. |
A good sauce should not only taste great but also blend seamlessly into the sandwich, enhancing the chicken, cheese, and toasted roll.
Classic Choices – The Best Sauce for Chicken Philly
Some sauces have become staple choices for Chicken Philly due to their rich texture and complementary flavors. Here are the best classic sauce options:
1. Cheese Sauce (Traditional Choice)
- The original Philly cheesesteak sauce, often made with Cheez Whiz or American cheese.
- Provides a rich, gooey texture that binds the ingredients together.
- Best for: Fans of the classic Philly cheesesteak taste.
2. Garlic Aioli
- A creamy, garlicky sauce that pairs well with grilled chicken.
- Made with mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Best for: Those who love a smooth, mildly tangy finish.
3. Horseradish Sauce
- A spicy and zesty sauce made with horseradish, mayo, and Dijon mustard.
- Adds a sharp, peppery bite that balances well with melted cheese.
- Best for: Those who enjoy bold, punchy flavors.
| Sauce Name | Flavor Profile | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Cheese Sauce | Creamy, rich, and savory | Traditional Philly fans |
| Garlic Aioli | Smooth, slightly tangy, garlicky | Mild yet flavorful touch |
| Horseradish Sauce | Sharp, spicy, and zesty | Fans of bold flavors |
Spicy Sauces for an Extra Kick
For those who love a bit of heat, these sauces will add the perfect amount of spice to your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak.
1. Spicy Mayo
- Made from mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice.
- Adds creaminess with a spicy kick.
- Best for: Fans of mild yet lingering heat.
2. Buffalo Sauce
- A fiery, tangy sauce made with hot sauce, butter, and vinegar.
- Perfect for those who enjoy Buffalo-style chicken.
- Best for: Buffalo Chicken Philly variations.
3. Jalapeño Ranch
- A creamy mix of ranch dressing and minced jalapeños.
- Balances spicy and cooling elements.
- Best for: Those who love spicy but creamy flavors.
| Spicy Sauce | Heat Level | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Spicy Mayo | Mild-Medium | Creamy but slightly hot |
| Buffalo Sauce | High | Fans of tangy heat |
| Jalapeño Ranch | Medium | Cooling with a spicy touch |
Sweet and Tangy Sauces
For a contrast in flavor, these sweet and tangy sauces balance the savory, cheesy Chicken Philly with hints of sweetness and acidity.
1. Honey Mustard
- A blend of honey, Dijon mustard, and mayo.
- Offers a sweet yet slightly spicy flavor.
- Best for: Those who enjoy a sweet-savory contrast.
2. BBQ Sauce
- A classic smoky-sweet sauce with notes of vinegar and brown sugar.
- Adds depth and a bold, tangy finish.
- Best for: Fans of BBQ-style Chicken Philly.
3. Marinara Sauce
- A tomato-based sauce with garlic, onions, and Italian herbs.
- Turns a Chicken Philly into an Italian-style sandwich.
- Best for: Those who enjoy a Chicken Parm twist.
| Sweet/Tangy Sauce | Flavor Profile | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Honey Mustard | Sweet, slightly spicy, smooth | Fans of sweet-savory blends |
| BBQ Sauce | Smoky, tangy, and rich | BBQ-style Chicken Philly |
| Marinara Sauce | Tomato-based, herby, slightly sweet | Italian-style Chicken Philly |
What Sauce is Used in Popular Chicken Philly Cheesesteaks?
Papa John’s Philly Sauce
- A creamy, garlic butter-based cheese sauce.
- Adds a rich, slightly herby flavor.
Geno’s & Pat’s Philly Sauce
- Sticks to Cheese Whiz, Provolone, or American cheese.
- No extra sauce—just melted cheese for authenticity.
Subway’s Philly Sauce
- A mild garlic-mayo blend with a touch of black pepper and cheese.
Homemade Sauce Recipes for Chicken Philly
For those who love homemade flavors, these easy-to-make sauces will take your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak to the next level.
1. Classic Cheese Sauce Recipe
A rich, creamy sauce that sticks to tradition and enhances the cheesesteak’s flavor.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup Cheez Whiz (or shredded American cheese)
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat.
- Add milk and stir continuously.
- Slowly mix in Cheez Whiz or American cheese, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat and pour over your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak.
2. Spicy Garlic Aioli Recipe
A bold, garlicky sauce with a hint of spice, perfect for adding heat to your sandwich.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp sriracha or hot sauce
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a small bowl.
- Let the sauce sit for 10 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- Spread onto a toasted hoagie roll or drizzle over the sandwich.
3. Honey Mustard Sauce Recipe
A sweet and tangy sauce that pairs well with BBQ Chicken Philly.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- ½ tsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
- Whisk all ingredients together until smooth.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more honey, if desired.
- Use as a spread or dipping sauce for your sandwich.
What Sauce is Used in Popular Chicken Philly Cheesesteaks?
Different restaurants and fast-food chains have their own versions of Chicken Philly Cheesesteak sauce.
1. Papa John’s Philly Sauce
- A creamy, buttery cheese sauce infused with garlic and herbs.
- Adds a rich, slightly herby taste to their Philly Cheesesteak pizza and sandwiches.
2. Geno’s & Pat’s Philly Sauce
- Sticking to tradition, they use only cheese—either Cheez Whiz, Provolone, or American cheese.
- No additional sauces—just melted cheese on top of grilled meat.
3. Subway’s Philly Sauce
- A garlic-infused mayo with a hint of black pepper and cheese flavoring.
- Mild and creamy, it enhances the sandwich without overpowering it.
Sauce Pairing Guide for Different Chicken Philly Styles
Not all Chicken Philly sandwiches are the same—some are spicy, smoky, or tangy. Here’s how to match the right sauce with different sandwich styles.
| Chicken Philly Style | Best Sauce Pairing | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Chicken Philly | Cheese Sauce | Stays true to the traditional flavors. |
| Spicy Chicken Philly | Spicy Mayo | Adds creamy heat without overpowering. |
| BBQ Chicken Philly | BBQ Sauce | The smoky sweetness enhances grilled chicken. |
| Buffalo Chicken Philly | Buffalo Sauce | Provides a tangy, spicy kick. |
| Garlic Lovers’ Chicken Philly | Garlic Aioli | Rich, garlicky goodness. |
| Italian Chicken Philly | Marinara Sauce | Gives it a Chicken Parmesan-style flavor. |
How to Use These Sauces in Your Sandwich:
- Drizzle over the chicken before adding cheese.
- Spread onto the toasted hoagie roll for an even layer of flavor.
- Use as a dipping sauce for extra richness.
FAQs on Chicken Philly Sauces
What sauce goes well with Philly cheesesteak?
Traditional Philly cheesesteaks are often served with Cheez Whiz as the primary sauce, but other popular options include garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or horseradish sauce. Some locals prefer hot sauce or a simple combination of ketchup and mayo. The key is to complement rather than overpower the meat and cheese flavors that define this iconic sandwich.
What goes well on a Philly cheesesteak?
A traditional Philly cheesesteak consists of thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese (typically Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American), and sautéed onions on a hoagie roll. Common additional toppings include sautéed mushrooms, peppers (both sweet and hot), and occasionally lettuce and tomato, though purists might argue against these latter additions.
Is mayo good on a Philly cheesesteak?
Mayo can be a tasty addition to a Philly cheesesteak, though it’s not traditional. Many people enjoy the creamy texture and subtle tang it adds to the sandwich. Some establishments offer a “mayo option,” and it’s become increasingly popular, especially when combined with other condiments to create special sauces. Personal preference ultimately dictates its inclusion.
Does a Philly cheesesteak have marinara sauce?
Traditional Philly cheesesteaks do not include marinara sauce. This is a common misconception, possibly due to confusion with other Italian-American sandwiches. Authentic Philadelphia cheesesteaks rely on the natural juices from the meat and the cheese for moisture. Adding marinara would create a different sandwich entirely, closer to a pizza steak.
What sauce is on Papa John’s Philly cheesesteak?
Papa John’s Philly cheesesteak pizza and sandwich typically feature a garlic sauce base rather than traditional pizza sauce. They use their signature garlic parmesan sauce, which complements the steak, onions, and peppers. This creamy sauce adds flavor while maintaining the essence of a Philly cheesesteak’s taste profile.
What type of sauce is marinara?
Marinara is a classic Italian tomato-based sauce made with tomatoes, garlic, herbs (particularly basil and oregano), and onions. It’s lighter and less complex than traditional pasta sauce, cooking quickly and maintaining a bright, fresh flavor. Unlike meat-based sauces, marinara is vegetarian and typically has a thinner consistency.
Conclusion
The best sauce for Chicken Philly Cheesesteak depends on your flavor preference. If you love traditional tastes, go for cheese sauce. If you prefer spicy flavors, Buffalo sauce or spicy mayo is a great choice. For a sweet-savory mix, honey mustard or BBQ sauce works well.
Experiment with different sauces to find your perfect Chicken Philly Cheesesteak flavor!
For more Chicken Philly recipes, check out:
The Best Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe