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If you’re craving a hearty, comforting sandwich that melts in your mouth with layers of flavor, you’ve got to try this Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe. Tender, slow-cooked chicken mingles perfectly with sweet bell peppers and onions, all soaked in a savory broth and topped with gooey melted cheese nestled inside a toasty hoagie roll. This dish effortlessly delivers that iconic Philly cheesesteak vibe with a delightful chicken twist, making it an all-time favorite for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to making this sandwich truly sing. Each one plays a crucial role—from bringing depth and spice to layering texture and freshness—so you’re set up for that perfectly balanced, crave-worthy meal.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show, providing tender and juicy protein that effortlessly shreds.
- 1 onion, thinly sliced: Adds a natural sweetness and a slight crunch to awaken the flavors.
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Offers vibrant color and a mild, fruity pepper flavor.
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced: Brings a subtle bitterness to balance out the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory undertones with warm garlicky notes.
- 1 tablespoon onion powder: Deepens onion flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Adds a smoky hint that elevates the overall profile.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that gives a subtle burst of freshness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: To bring out and balance all the combined flavors perfectly.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and infuses it with rich savoriness.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth and a touch of tangy complexity.
- 4-6 hoagie rolls: The sturdy yet soft vessel to hold all that deliciousness together.
- Provolone cheese slices (or mozzarella/cheddar): Melts beautifully over the chicken for that irresistible cheesy finish.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by layering the chicken breasts into your slow cooker along with the thinly sliced onions and both red and green bell peppers. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly over the top. Pour in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce—this combination is what keeps the chicken wonderfully juicy and bursting with flavor. Cover and set your slow cooker to low for about 6 to 7 hours, or high for 3 to 4 hours if you’re short on time. The slow cooking allows every flavor to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
Once your kitchen is filled with the enticing aroma, it’s time to shred. Remove the cooked chicken breasts and use two forks to pull the meat apart into tender, bite-sized shreds. Don’t forget to return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker to soak up all those savory juices. Give everything a good stir so each shred is perfectly coated and flavorful.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Slice your hoagie rolls lengthwise and toast them lightly in the oven until they’re just golden and slightly crisp. This toasting step is a game-changer—it adds a subtle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken filling. Pile a generous helping of the chicken and pepper mixture onto each roll, making sure to get plenty of those juicy veggies with every bite. Then, top each sandwich with a slice of provolone cheese or your preferred melting cheese.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Pop the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes. This quick broil melts the cheese into that irresistible oozy layer that’s every bit as important as the chicken itself. Keep a close eye here so the cheese gets perfectly melted and slightly bubbly without burning.
Step 5: Serve
Serve these sandwiches hot and fresh from the oven, allowing the melty cheese and juicy chicken to shine together. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy lunch or a satisfying dinner, this sandwich is comfort food at its finest.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe even further, consider adding some fresh garnishes. Crisp lettuce or spinach can introduce a cool crunch, while a few slices of pickles lend a tangy zest that cuts through the richness. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of hot sauce can add an exciting layer of flavor and color right before serving.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with simple sides that won’t overpower its bold flavors. Consider classic chips or seasoned fries for a traditional experience, or mix it up with a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables to add freshness and balance. Even a cup of warm tomato soup can make for a wonderfully cozy, nostalgic meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting or want to impress, slice the sandwich diagonally and serve open-faced with a sprinkle of extra cheese over the top. For a shareable party platter, cut the sandwiches into smaller sliders so everyone can grab a bite. Wrapping them in parchment paper with a colorful toothpick adds charm and keeps things neat—perfect for casual entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the filling separate from the bread helps prevent the rolls from getting soggy, so assemble each sandwich fresh before serving to retain that wonderful texture contrast.
Freezing
The shredded chicken mixture freezes beautifully and makes a fantastic time-saver for busy days. Freeze in portion-sized freezer bags or containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave before assembling your sandwich.
Reheating
To reheat your Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe filling, warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Toast fresh hoagie rolls separately, then assemble and melt cheese under the broiler as before for that fresh, just-made experience. This method keeps all the layers perfectly balanced and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and extra juiciness. Just adjust cooking time slightly if needed and shred as usual for a tender, flavorful filling.
Is it necessary to use Worcestershire sauce?
While Worcestershire sauce adds a wonderful depth of umami and tang, you can omit it if you don’t have it on hand. A splash of soy sauce or a bit more chicken broth can work as substitutes to maintain savory flavor.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and peppers in a covered skillet over low heat for about 45 minutes, adding broth as needed, then shred the chicken before assembling. The slow cooker just makes it extra tender and hands-off.
What is the best cheese to use for these sandwiches?
Provolone is classic because it melts beautifully and has a mild, creamy flavor, but mozzarella or cheddar also work well depending on your preference. Feel free to mix cheeses for a unique twist.
Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Mushrooms, jalapeños, or even sliced zucchini would be delicious additions to customize the sandwich to your liking and boost the veggie content.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe is one of those feel-good dishes that hits all the right notes—comforting, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for everyone from busy home cooks who want a no-fuss meal to anyone craving a delicious twist on a Philly classic. I can’t wait for you to try it out and fall in love with this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that truly feels like a warm hug on a plate.
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Print
Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes or 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious slow cooker chicken Philly sandwiches featuring tender shredded chicken cooked with bell peppers, onions, and flavorful seasonings, served on toasted hoagie rolls with melted provolone cheese. This easy, hands-off recipe is perfect for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Assembly
- 4–6 hoagie rolls
- Provolone cheese slices (or mozzarella/cheddar)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts, sliced onion, red and green bell peppers, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce. 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 fully cooked.
- Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir well to combine with the flavorful cooking juices and vegetables.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Slice the hoagie rolls and toast them in the oven until lightly crisp. Spoon a generous amount of the shredded chicken mixture into each toasted roll. Top each sandwich with a slice of provolone cheese or your choice of mozzarella or cheddar.
- Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet and position them under the broiler in your oven for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and turned slightly bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Serve: Serve the hot chicken Philly sandwiches immediately. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any day of the week.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- You can prepare the chicken mixture a day ahead and reheat before assembling the sandwiches.
- Substitute the hoagie rolls with your favorite sandwich buns or bread.
- If you prefer, use mozzarella or cheddar cheese instead of provolone.
- Leftover sandwiches can be wrapped tightly and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
