Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches are a delicious and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With tender, flavorful chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and melted provolone cheese, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit. Using a slow cooker simplifies the process, allowing you to prepare a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe and explore how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 bell peppers, thinly sliced or diced (mix of red, green, and yellow)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 8 slices provolone cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Thinly slice the onion and bell peppers. Mince the garlic.
- Layer the Slow Cooker:
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the sliced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
- Season the Chicken:
- Sprinkle the dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
- Add the Broth:
- Pour the low-sodium chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Chicken:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix well with the vegetables and juices.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the hoagie rolls open and place them on a baking sheet.
- Fill each roll with the shredded chicken and vegetable mixture.
- Place two slices of provolone cheese on top of the chicken in each sandwich.
- Melt the Cheese:
- Place the sandwiches in the preheated oven and bake for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove the sandwiches from the oven and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Chicken: For the best texture, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for additional flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese: Provolone is the classic choice, but you can also use mozzarella or pepper jack for a different twist.
Variations
Keto Version
To make this dish keto-friendly:
- Serve the chicken and vegetables in lettuce wraps or over a bed of cauliflower rice instead of hoagie rolls.
- Ensure the chicken broth and seasonings are free from added sugars or fillers.
Low-Carb Version
For a low-carb version:
- Use low-carb hoagie rolls or wrap the chicken and vegetables in low-carb tortillas.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but the cooking time may need to be increased slightly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Q: Can I add other seasonings? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other seasonings like smoked paprika, cumin, or red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor.
Q: What side dishes go well with Chicken Philly Sandwiches? A: These sandwiches pair well with a variety of side dishes such as coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple green salad.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat and assemble the sandwiches as directed.
Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches are a tasty and convenient meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender, flavorful chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and melted provolone cheese, these sandwiches are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try the keto and low-carb variations, this dish is a delightful addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy making and savoring these delicious sandwiches with your family and friends!
