Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches

## How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches

### Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

Start by preparing your chicken and vegetables. If you’re using chicken breasts, make sure to trim any excess fat or skin. For chicken thighs, you can leave the skin on if you prefer, but it’s usually recommended to remove the skin for a leaner filling.

Slice the bell peppers and onions into thin strips. If you’re using mushrooms, clean them with a damp cloth and slice them into thin pieces as well. Mince the garlic and set it aside.

### Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Layer the sliced bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms on top of the chicken. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the vegetables.

Add the chicken broth and season the mixture with taco seasoning or Philly seasoning. If you want more of a spicy kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the slow cooker as well.

### Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken

Cover the slow cooker and cook the ingredients on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender enough to shred easily with two forks. The vegetables will soften and infuse the chicken with flavor as they cook.

### Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the vegetables and cooking juices. This will ensure that the chicken is flavorful and moist.

### Step 5: Prepare the Sandwich Rolls

While the chicken and vegetables are cooking, prepare the hoagie rolls. You can lightly toast the rolls in the oven for a few minutes to give them a little extra crunch, or you can leave them soft depending on your preference. Toasting them slightly will also help prevent the rolls from becoming soggy when you add the chicken filling.

### Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches

Once the chicken mixture is ready, spoon it generously onto the toasted hoagie rolls. Top each sandwich with a slice of provolone cheese, or drizzle Cheese Whiz over the filling for a traditional Philly touch. If you’re using provolone cheese, place the sandwiches under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese and give the sandwich a slightly golden top.

### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the sandwiches from the oven and serve immediately while they’re hot and melty. Add any extra toppings you like, such as lettuce, tomato, or pickles, and serve with chips or a side salad for a complete meal.

## Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches

1. **Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker**: Make sure the chicken and vegetables are evenly spread out in the slow cooker to ensure even cooking. If you overcrowd the slow cooker, the ingredients may not cook properly.

2. **Add Extra Veggies**: If you love vegetables, feel free to add extra mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach to the slow cooker. These additions will add more flavor and nutrition to your sandwiches.

3. **Use a Meat Thermometer**: To ensure that your chicken is cooked to the perfect temperature, use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked.

4. **Freezer-Friendly**: If you have leftovers, this chicken filling freezes well. Just let it cool, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, and assemble sandwiches whenever you’re ready.

5. **Customize the Cheese**: While provolone cheese is the traditional choice, you can swap it out for other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. You can even mix cheeses for added depth of flavor.

## Variations and Customizations

1. **Buffalo Chicken Philly Sandwiches**: Add a spicy twist by mixing buffalo sauce into the chicken before serving. Top with a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing for an extra kick.

2. **BBQ Chicken Philly Sandwiches**: Swap the taco or Philly seasoning for BBQ sauce, and top with coleslaw for a Southern-inspired version of the sandwich.

3. **Vegetarian Philly Sandwiches**: Skip the chicken and opt for a variety of roasted vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions, to create a vegetarian-friendly version of this sandwich.

4. **Cheese Whiz**: For a more authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, use Cheese Whiz instead of provolone. It melts beautifully and adds a rich, creamy texture to the

sandwich.

## Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Philly Sandwiches are a delicious and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a casual gathering, or meal prepping for the week, these sandwiches are sure to satisfy. With tender chicken, savory vegetables, and gooey cheese, they are a comforting and satisfying dish that everyone will love.

By following this recipe and exploring the different variations and tips, you can create a meal that’s truly unforgettable. So, fire up your slow cooker and get ready to indulge in the ultimate chicken Philly sandwich!