Arby’s has never been afraid to take inspiration from tradition and turn it into something a little different. After making a name for itself with roast beef, the chain discreetly branched out into fish sandwiches, brisket, and gyros, always surprising those who had previously written them off. Therefore, it felt less like a gimmick and more like a sensible next step for a company that actually seems to enjoy the sandwich’s craft when they announced that three new Chicken Cheesesteak sandwiches would be available on October 12.
The lineup is fairly simple. The Classic Chicken Cheesesteak is served on a toasted sesame seed sub roll with melted white American Cooper® cheese, caramelized onions, and seasoned chicken. This may seem straightforward on paper, but the soft, slightly sweet caramelized onions really shine here, cutting through the richness of the cheese in a way that gives the entire dish a more deliberate feel than a typical fast-food construction. The chicken itself is marinated in a mixture of paprika, onion, and garlic, giving it a depth that is rarely found in plain grilled chicken at this price.
Then there’s the Chicken Deluxe Cheesesteak, which tops the Classic base with sliced tomatoes and shredded lettuce. Traditionalists might scoff at the idea of adding fresh veggies to a cheesesteak—any Philadelphian worth their provolone would have an opinion—but it works. The tomato adds a brightness that prevents the sandwich from feeling overly heavy, and the lettuce adds a crunch that the original lacks. It’s a modest but wise addition.
The interesting part is the spicy chicken cheesesteak. The chicken is covered in a spicy glaze that adds heat gradually rather than all at once. The spice “added a nice little kick,” according to Tasting Table, which seems accurate—it’s not a fire alarm moment, but it’s enough to draw your attention. The spicy version gives the sandwich a second act for those who find the traditional cheesesteak format a little monotonous.
It seems like Arby’s has been closely observing how consumers interact with cheesesteak-style products. The chain’s initial beef cheesesteak has been a quiet success, so branching out into chicken makes sense due to its lower protein content, broader appeal, and adaptable format. It’s still unclear if this chicken version will stick around or go away after its brief run, but if the early reaction continues, there will probably be pressure to bring it back.
It’s difficult to ignore the amount of work that went into the bread selection in particular. Although it’s not the most visually appealing option, a toasted sesame seed sub roll holds together nicely and adds a subtle nuttiness that enhances rather than overpowers the savory filling. Tiny detail. Has an impact.
Arby’s Chicken Cheesesteak sandwiches appear to be making enough noise to matter right now, which is crucial for fast food chains. It’s important to pay attention to the timing because these aren’t going to last forever, whether you start with the Classic or go straight for the Spicy.
