If you adore the rich, melty, and savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak but want a lighter, hands-off twist, the Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish transforms simple chicken breasts combined with colorful bell peppers and onions into a tender, juicy filling that soaks up all the aromatic spices and chicken broth, making each bite an utter delight. Plus, with the slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, you’ll have a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal ready with minimal effort and maximum flavor every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients show just how straightforward it is to create an unforgettable meal. Each one plays a vital role in layering flavors and textures to perfect your Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean, tender base that absorbs all those fantastic spices and juices.
- 2 green bell peppers, sliced: Adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant crunch to balance the chicken.
- 1 large onion, sliced: Brings mellow sweetness and depth when slow-cooked to perfection.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Gives a warm, savory kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Enhances the natural onion flavor, layering in richness.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: For a subtle smoky note that enhances the overall savoriness.
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix that adds an herby Mediterranean flair.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best in every ingredient.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and infuses gentle, savory flavor.
- 6 hoagie rolls: The perfect sturdy vessel that holds all that delicious filling.
- 6 slices provolone cheese: Melts beautifully over the chicken mixture for that creamy finish.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts right into the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a juicy foundation that will cook slowly and soak in all the wonderful flavors layered on top.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Layer the sliced green bell peppers and onions evenly over the chicken breasts. Then sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper across the top. This mix of spices brings that signature Philly cheesesteak aroma and taste.
Step 3: Pour in the Chicken Broth
Pour one cup of low-sodium chicken broth gently over the layers. This liquid helps keep the chicken tender and moist during cooking, while adding a subtle, savory depth to the whole dish.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is so tender that it shreds effortlessly with two forks.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken and Mix
Using two forks, shred the chicken right in the slow cooker, mixing it thoroughly with the cooked peppers and onions. This step blends all those rich flavors beautifully, making the filling juicy and delicious.
Step 6: Optional Toasting of Hoagie Rolls
If you want to add a bit of extra texture and warmth, lightly toast your hoagie rolls before assembling. This step makes the sandwich heartier and keeps the bread from getting soggy too fast.
Step 7: Assemble Your Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe
Spoon generous amounts of the shredded chicken and veggie mixture onto each hoagie roll, then top each sandwich with a slice of provolone cheese. The cheese will melt into the warm filling, creating that signature Philly cheesesteak finish you crave.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or a light drizzle of hot sauce can brighten the rich, savory flavors of your sandwiches. If you like a little heat, pickled jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes are excellent choices to amp things up.
Side Dishes
Serve these sandwiches alongside classic favorites like crispy fries, a simple green salad, or even a tangy coleslaw. The contrast between crunchy and creamy sides pairs wonderfully with the tender, juicy filling in the sandwiches, making the meal feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the chicken mixture over a bed of rice or inside soft tortillas for a Philly-style wrap. You could also turn these into sliders using smaller rolls, perfect for parties or casual snacking, making your Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe a versatile crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken mixture separate from the bread helps maintain freshness and prevents sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze the shredded chicken and vegetable filling for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool the mixture completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat the thawed or refrigerated chicken mixture gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain that juicy texture before assembling your sandwiches again.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give your sandwich a slightly richer flavor and tend to stay more moist, but they may require a bit less cooking time. Just keep an eye on the tenderness as they cook.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can make this recipe in a covered casserole dish in the oven at 325°F for about 2 hours until the chicken is tender. Just make sure to add broth and cover tightly to keep the moisture in.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! Add crushed red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or substitute the green bell peppers with spicy peppers like poblano or jalapeño to give your Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe an exciting kick.
Is provolone cheese necessary?
Provolone is traditional and melts beautifully, but feel free to swap in mozzarella, Swiss, or even a sharp cheddar based on your preference or what you have on hand. Each cheese will bring a slightly different flavor profile.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Simply omit the cheese or use your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative. The chicken and veggies are so flavorful on their own, you won’t miss it much, and it stays just as delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe is a testament to how delicious comfort food can be both simple and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping for a get-together, or just craving a homemade sandwich that feels special, this recipe delivers every time. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be reaching for your slow cooker again and again!
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches are a comforting and easy-to-make meal featuring tender shredded chicken cooked with bell peppers, onions, and flavorful seasonings. Perfect for a hands-off cooking day, the chicken simmers slowly to absorb the smoky, savory spices, then is piled into toasted hoagie rolls and topped with melted provolone cheese for a classic Philly-inspired sandwich that’s ideal for lunches or dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 green bell peppers, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
Seasonings
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquids
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Sandwich Assembly
- 6 hoagie rolls
- 6 slices provolone cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease or spray the slow cooker insert if desired for easier cleanup.
- Place the Chicken Breasts: Put the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker, forming a flat layer.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Layer the sliced green bell peppers and onion evenly over the chicken breasts. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly on top.
- Pour in Chicken Broth: Carefully add 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth to the slow cooker to keep the chicken moist and infuse flavor during cooking.
- Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Mix the shredded chicken back into the vegetables and juices in the slow cooker for full flavor distribution.
- Toast the Hoagie Rolls (Optional): For added texture and warmth, lightly toast the hoagie rolls in the oven or toaster oven until slightly crispy.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture onto each toasted hoagie roll. Top each sandwich with a slice of provolone cheese so it melts slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to better control the salt level in the final dish.
- Optional to add thinly sliced mushrooms or other bell peppers for variety.
- To melt the cheese thoroughly, place assembled sandwiches under a broiler for 1-2 minutes if desired.
- Leftover chicken mixture can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
