If you’re craving a flavorful, hearty sandwich without all the fuss, this Ultimate Lazy Slow Cooker Chicken Cheesesteak is exactly what you need! Made in a slow cooker, it’s an easy way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken topped with melted cheese and sautéed vegetables. Perfect for a low-effort yet satisfying lunch or dinner!
Let’s get started!
Ingredients
1 For the Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 large onion, sliced thinly
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced thinly
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced thinly
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
2 For the Sandwich
- 4-6 hoagie rolls or sub buns
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for toasting)
- Optional toppings: mayonnaise, mustard, or hot sauce
Directions
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the sliced onion, green and red bell peppers, and minced garlic in the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Season the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker. Season with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Pour the chicken broth over the top.
3. Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
4. Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it right in the slow cooker. Mix it well with the cooked peppers and onions to combine all the flavors.
5. Toast the Hoagie Rolls (Optional)
For an extra crispy sandwich, heat olive oil in a skillet and lightly toast the insides of the hoagie rolls until golden brown. This step adds texture but is totally optional.
6. Assemble the Sandwiches
Place a generous portion of the shredded chicken and vegetables onto each hoagie roll. Top with a slice of provolone cheese. For melted cheese, you can place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 1-2 minutes or use a microwave to melt the cheese quickly.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Ultimate Lazy Slow Cooker Chicken Cheesesteak sandwiches hot. Add your favorite toppings like mayonnaise, mustard, or hot sauce, and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- Chicken Choice: Both chicken breasts and thighs work well for this recipe. Thighs tend to be juicier, but breasts are leaner.
- Toasting: Toasting the hoagie rolls adds a great crunchy texture. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, and the sandwich will still be delicious!
- Melt the Cheese: For that gooey, melty cheese, broil or microwave the sandwiches just before serving.
Substitutions/Variations
- Cheese: If you don’t have provolone, try mozzarella, American cheese, or even cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Meat: You can use beef or turkey instead of chicken for a twist on this classic sandwich.
- Spices: Customize the seasoning with your favorite spices or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the cooking time by about 1 hour on low or 30 minutes on high. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the chicken and veggies in the slow cooker ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before assembling your sandwiches.
What are good side dishes to serve with chicken cheesesteaks?
Serve these sandwiches with fries, potato chips, a fresh salad, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving. You can also freeze the shredded chicken and veggies for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat before assembling your sandwiches.
More Lazy Slow Cooker Recipes
- Easy Caramel Apple Jam Recipe: A Sweet Fall Delight
- Country Apple Fritter Bread Recipe | Easy & Delicious
Enjoy the ease and flavor of this Ultimate Lazy Slow Cooker Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwich—a simple, hands-off recipe perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. Let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy a restaurant-quality sandwich at home. Happy eating!