If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful sandwich that’s effortlessly made, look no further than this Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe. This dish takes the comfort of traditional Philly cheesesteaks and reinvents it with tender, slow-cooked chicken, sweet sautéed peppers, and melty provolone cheese all nestled in a perfectly toasted hoagie roll. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your home with incredible aromas and promises a satisfying meal with minimal hands-on time, perfect for busy days or easy weekend dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping it simple is key, and each ingredient in this Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe plays an essential role in creating a luscious balance of flavors and textures. From the juicy chicken breasts to the vibrant bell peppers and fragrant spices, every component works together to make each bite a delight.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender, lean protein base that soaks up all the wonderful flavors as it cooks.
- 2 green bell peppers, sliced: Adds a fresh, slightly sweet crunch and vibrant color to the sandwich.
- 1 large onion, sliced: Provides sweetness and depth once slow-cooked with the chicken and spices.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a warm, savory undertone that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor, amplifying the overall aroma and taste.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smokiness and a hint of warmth to the dish.
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning: Adds a herby, aromatic blend that rounds out the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the different flavors.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist during cooking and forms a flavorful base for the filling.
- 6 hoagie rolls: Thick and sturdy, they hold all the juicy chicken and veggies without getting soggy.
- 6 slices provolone cheese: Melts beautifully over the warm chicken mixture, adding creamy richness.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Layer the Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly at the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a juicy base that will absorb all the amazing seasoning and keep the chicken moist as it cooks low and slow.
Step 2: Add Peppers, Onions, and Spices
Next, layer the sliced green bell peppers and onions over the chicken. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly over the veggies and chicken, ensuring every bite will be bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth around the edges of the slow cooker. This keeps everything from drying out, adds moisture, and intensifies the savory juices that will soak into the chicken and vegetables.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and cook everything on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken will become incredibly tender, making it easy to shred and ensuring each bite is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Step 5: Shred and Combine
Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. Stir well to mix the shredded chicken evenly with the flavorful peppers and onions, creating that iconic Philly sandwich filling.
Step 6: Toast the Rolls
To add a little crunch and keep your sandwich from getting soggy, lightly toast the hoagie rolls. The toasty texture provides the perfect contrast to the tender filling.
Step 7: Assemble with Cheese
Load each toasted hoagie roll generously with the shredded chicken-pepper mixture, then top with a slice of provolone cheese. The cheese will melt beautifully against the warm filling, bringing everything together in gooey, cheesy harmony.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe, consider adding fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. These add brightness and a little zing, enhancing each bite without overpowering the deliciously cooked chicken and veggies.
Side Dishes
Pair your sandwiches with classic sides like crispy french fries, a crisp green salad, or even a tangy coleslaw for some crunch. A clear, refreshing side balances the richness of the sandwich and rounds out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe up a notch by serving the shredded chicken and vegetable filling alongside mini slider buns for a fun party platter, or stuff the mixture into warm pita pockets for a Mediterranean twist. You could also serve the filling over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes to enjoy the classic flavors in a completely new way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply transfer any leftover chicken and veggie filling to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen with a little extra time, making delicious second-day sandwiches.
Freezing
If you want to save your Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe for longer, the shredded chicken mixture freezes wonderfully. Just pop it into a freezer-safe container or bag, and it’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If reheating in a skillet, add a splash of chicken broth to keep the filling moist and prevent it from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of provolone?
Absolutely! While provolone melts nicely and has a mild flavor, you can substitute mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp cheddar if you want a different twist on the classic taste.
Is it possible to make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can replicate this recipe on the stovetop by simmering the chicken and vegetables in a covered pan with broth over low heat for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the chicken is tender enough to shred. Just make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Chicken thighs are a great alternative, offering extra juiciness and flavor. If using thighs, reduce the cooking time slightly and check that the chicken is thoroughly cooked before shredding.
How spicy is the Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe?
This recipe has a mild, smoky flavor with no heat unless you add optional spicy ingredients yourself. If you prefer some kick, try adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when assembling the sandwiches.
Can I prepare the filling in advance and assemble when ready to eat?
Definitely! The chicken filling stores well and can be prepared a day ahead. Just keep it refrigerated and reheat it gently before assembling your sandwiches to keep everything fresh and delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about coming home to a warm, melty Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe that’s been slowly cooking away all day. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give this recipe a try the next time you want a tasty, comforting meal that practically makes itself while you get on with your day.
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
These Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches are a delicious, easy-to-make meal featuring tender shredded chicken cooked with bell peppers, onions, and spices. Served on toasted hoagie rolls and topped with melted provolone cheese, this hearty sandwich captures the classic Philly cheesesteak flavor with a healthier, slow-cooked twist perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 green bell peppers, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Assembly
- 6 hoagie rolls
- 6 slices provolone cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker to form the base layer for cooking.
- Add Vegetables and Spices: Lay 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 to season.
- Add Liquid: Pour 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth into the slow cooker to keep the chicken moist and infuse flavors as it cooks.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is very tender and can be easily shredded with forks.
- Shred and Mix: Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken directly in the slow cooker and mix it well with the softened peppers and onions to combine all flavors.
- Toast the Rolls: Lightly toast the hoagie rolls in a toaster or oven to add texture and warmth for assembling the sandwiches.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spoon a generous amount of the shredded chicken and vegetable mixture into each toasted hoagie roll, then top each sandwich with a slice of provolone cheese to finish.
Notes
- You can substitute provolone cheese with mozzarella or American cheese if preferred.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a few dashes of hot sauce before serving.
- If you like your peppers and onions softer, sauté them briefly before adding to the slow cooker.
- This recipe freezes well; store sandwiches without cheese for best results, then add fresh cheese when reheating.
- Use low-sodium broth to control salt content in the recipe.
