Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe

Irresistible Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe

My kitchen always buzzes with excitement when slow cooker chicken philly sandwiches emerge from the crockpot.

Tender strips of chicken bathe in a rich, savory blend of peppers and onions.

Melted cheese drapes over each hearty portion like a delicious blanket.

We can practically smell the robust flavors wafting through the house during preparation.

Some sandwich recipes feel complicated, but this version simplifies everything with minimal effort.

Philadelphia-style comfort comes together without standing over a hot stove for hours.

Hearty and satisfying, these sandwiches will become your new weeknight dinner champion.

Why Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Are a Winner

  • Tackle busy evenings with this incredibly simple slow cooker recipe that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor.
  • Transform classic Philly cheesesteak flavors into a hearty, satisfying sandwich that appeals to both kids and adults with its tender chicken and melted cheese.
  • Leverage the slow cooker's magic to develop rich, deep flavors while you go about your day, returning to a delicious meal that practically prepares itself.
  • Customize sandwiches with various cheese types, add extra condiments, or serve the chicken mixture over rice for a quick meal adaptation that keeps things interesting.

What You’ll Need for These Tender Chicken Sandwiches

Main Proteins:
  • Chicken Breasts: Tender, juicy protein that soaks up delicious seasonings and becomes the star of the sandwich.
  • Provolone Cheese: Creamy cheese that melts beautifully and adds rich flavor to the sandwich.
Vegetables and Aromatics:
  • Bell Peppers, Onions: Sweet and colorful vegetables that add texture and classic Philly cheesesteak flavor.
  • Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that brings depth and warmth to the overall dish.
Seasonings and Liquids:
  • Italian Seasoning: Herb blend that provides traditional Mediterranean-style seasoning.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings for enhancing the chicken's natural taste.
  • Chicken Broth: Moisture-providing liquid that keeps the chicken tender and adds extra flavor.
  • Hoagie Rolls: Soft bread perfect for holding the juicy chicken mixture.
Optional Condiments:
  • Mayonnaise, Mustard, Hot Sauce: Customizable toppings for personal flavor preference.

How to Build the Best Chicken Philly in the Slow Cooker

Step 1: Prepare Flavorful Base

Place chicken breasts in slow cooker

Sprinkle generously with:
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
Layer on top:
  • Sliced bell peppers
  • Sliced onions
  • Minced garlic

Step 2: Add Moisture Magic

Pour chicken broth over ingredients to ensure juicy, tender results

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until chicken becomes fork-tender

Step 4: Transform Chicken

Remove chicken breasts and shred using two forks

Return shredded chicken to slow cooker

Mix thoroughly with peppers and onions

Step 5: Create Cheesy Sandwich Masterpiece

Activate oven broiler

Split hoagie rolls

Fill rolls generously with chicken mixture

Top with provolone cheese slices

Broil 2-3 minutes until cheese melts and turns golden

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Plate hot sandwiches

Optional toppings:

Mayonnaise

Mustard

Hot sauce

Pro Tips for Flavorful, Juicy Chicken Filling

  • Customize Chicken Heat: Adjust the spiciness by adding red pepper flakes or jalapeños to match your preferred heat level for a personalized flavor punch.
  • Meal Prep Magic: Shredded chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner shortcuts during busy weeks.
  • Cheese Swap Strategy: Replace provolone with Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese to create different flavor profiles without changing the core recipe.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free hoagie rolls or serve the chicken mixture over cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that maintains the original recipe's delicious essence.
  • Veggie Volume Boost: Increase vegetable quantities or add mushrooms for extra nutrition and a more substantial filling that stretches the recipe's servings.

How to Store and Heat Up Chicken Philly Sandwiches

  • Store leftover chicken mixture in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Transfer chicken mixture to freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air. Keep frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
  • Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
  • Reheat in microwave-safe dish, covered, for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through heating to ensure even temperature and prevent cold spots.

What Sides to Serve with These Savory Sandwiches

  • Select a crisp amber ale or hoppy pale ale that complements the sandwich's rich, savory profile and cuts through the melted cheese.
  • Whip up a tangy cucumber and tomato salad with red wine vinegar dressing to provide a fresh, light contrast to the hearty sandwich.
  • Serve with garlic-parmesan roasted potato wedges that offer a crunchy texture and additional complementary flavor to the chicken.
  • Pour a chilled glass of hard cider with subtle apple notes that refreshes the palate and balances the sandwich's robust ingredients.

Chicken Philly Variations to Try This Week

  • Gluten-Free Philly Chicken: Replace hoagie rolls with gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps for a celiac-friendly version. Use gluten-free chicken broth and seasonings to ensure complete dietary compliance.
  • Vegetarian Philly Sandwich: Swap chicken with portobello mushrooms or plant-based chicken alternatives. Maintain the same seasoning and cooking method for a meat-free protein option.
  • Low-Carb Philly Bowl: Skip the bread entirely and serve the chicken, peppers, and onions over cauliflower rice or mixed greens. Top with melted cheese for a keto-friendly meal.
  • Spicy Southwest Chicken Sandwich: Add diced jalapeños, chipotle seasoning, and swap provolone for pepper jack cheese. Include a dollop of salsa or hot sauce for extra heat and flavor.
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Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 38 reviews

  • Total Time: 7 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty slow cooker chicken Philly sandwiches deliver classic Philadelphia flavor with tender meat and melted cheese nestled in a warm roll. Comfort meets convenience in this easy one-pot meal that brings restaurant-style satisfaction straight to home kitchens.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Vegetables:

  • 2 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), thinly sliced
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 packet (1 oz or 28 g) Italian seasoning mix (or 1 tablespoon homemade blend)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 8 slices provolone cheese
  • 6 hoagie rolls or sub rolls

Instructions

  1. Prepare the slow cooker by layering chicken breasts at the bottom, then generously season with Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Scatter sliced bell peppers, diced onions, and minced garlic evenly across the top.
  2. Gently pour chicken broth over the entire mixture, ensuring ingredients are lightly coated and will remain succulent during cooking.
  3. Secure the lid and allow the slow cooker to transform ingredients on LOW temperature for 6-7 hours or HIGH temperature for 3-4 hours, creating tender, flavorful protein.
  4. Carefully extract chicken breasts and utilize two forks to meticulously shred the meat into delicate, soft pieces. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker, thoroughly combining with caramelized peppers and onions.
  5. Activate the oven’s broiler and prepare hoagie rolls by splitting them lengthwise. Generously fill each roll with the chicken and vegetable mixture, then crown with provolone cheese slices.
  6. Position sandwiches on a baking sheet and slide under the broiler. Monitor closely as cheese melts and edges become golden and crispy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
  7. Transfer sandwiches to serving plates, offering optional condiments like mayonnaise, mustard, or hot sauce for personalized enhancement.

Notes

  • Opt for chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra moisture and richer flavor, especially if cooking on high heat.
  • Drain excess liquid before assembling sandwiches to prevent soggy bread and ensure a crisp texture when broiling.
  • Swap provolone with Swiss or pepper jack cheese for different flavor profiles that complement the chicken’s seasoning.
  • Use gluten-free hoagie rolls or lettuce wraps to make this recipe suitable for low-carb and gluten-sensitive diets.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 500
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Daves Miller

Daves Miller

Contributing Chef & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • American Southern cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Instruction in culinary fundamentals and advanced techniques.
  • Development of recipes that highlight seasonal and local produce.​
  • Mastery of artisanal bread and pastry techniques, from laminated doughs to decorative sugar artistry.

Education

Sullivan University, Louisville, Kentucky

  • Degree: Associate of Science Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Specialized in cooking techniques and culinary sciences, hands‑on externships, professional kitchen lab training, and career preparation for restaurants, entrepreneurship, and global culinary opportunities.

White Mountains Community College, Berlin, New Hampshire

  • Program: Baking and Pastry Arts degree
  • Focus: Specialized in comprehensive baking and pastry arts, including bread making, artisan breads, cake decorating and design, chocolates, confections, and decorative centerpieces; product development and baking theory; and career preparation for baker and pastry chef roles in many places.

Daves is the friendly face guiding you through flavorful, fuss-free recipes at Picture Perfect Meals. 

He studied culinary arts at Sullivan University and embraced Baking and Pastry Arts at White Mountains Community College. Daves specializes in comforting meals with vibrant flavors, highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients.

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