Introduction
The wholesome crockpot chicken Philly cheesesteak is a delightful twist on the classic cheesesteak recipe, bringing all the beloved flavors with a healthier spin. By using boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of traditional beef, this version not only slashes fat content but also makes for an incredibly tender and juicy filling. The addition of colorful bell peppers, onions, and melted provolone cheese creates a mouthwatering combination that is sure to please both families and guests alike.
This easy-to-follow recipe is incredibly convenient for busy weeknights, allowing you to prep all your ingredients in a matter of minutes. Simply set the crockpot and let it work its magic while you focus on other tasks or unwind after a hectic day. The end result is a hearty, satisfying meal ready to be served in just a few hours – making it an ideal choice for gatherings, game days, or simply treating yourself to a comforting dish.
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or looking for a quick yet delicious weeknight dinner, these wholesome chicken Philly cheesesteak sandwiches capture all the classic flavors that everyone craves. With the added option of personalizing each sandwich with various toppings, it’s easy to cater to different taste preferences and turns a simple meal into a gourmet experience.
Recipe Overview
– Total Time: 7 hours
– Yield/Servings: 4
– Difficulty: Not specified in the recipe
Ingredients
Chicken
– 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Vegetables
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
Broth and Seasoning
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
Cheesy Component
– 4 slices of reduced-fat provolone cheese
Rolls
– 4 whole wheat hoagie rolls
Optional Toppings
– Sautéed mushrooms
– Sliced jalapeños
– Creamy avocado slices
Instructions
1. Prepare the Base: Begin by placing the boneless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Evenly layer the sliced red and green bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic over the chicken.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the low-sodium chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, black pepper, and sea salt. Stir well to blend the flavors, then pour this savory mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the crockpot.
3. Cooking Time: Secure the lid on the crockpot. Set it to low heat and allow the mixture to cook for 6-7 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be thoroughly cooked and easily shred with a fork when it’s done.
4. Shred the Chicken: Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the crockpot and mix it with the vegetables and flavorful broth.
5. Melt the Cheese: Lay the slices of provolone cheese over the top of the shredded chicken mixture. Cover the crockpot again and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.
6. Create the Sandwiches: Cut the whole wheat hoagie rolls in half. Generously fill each roll with the cheesy chicken and vegetable blend. Feel free to add any of the optional toppings you desire, such as sautéed mushrooms, spicy jalapeños, or creamy avocado slices.
7. Serve and Savor: Serve your wholesome crockpot chicken Philly cheesesteak sandwiches warm and enjoy every delicious bite!
Prepare the Base
The foundation of this dish begins with placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. This step is essential as it allows the chicken to cook in its own juices, making it incredibly tender. Layering the sliced red and green bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic on top not only enhances the flavor but also ensures an optimal cooking process. As they steam, these vegetables will impart their sweetness and savory notes to the chicken, resulting in a richly flavored filling.
When choosing bell peppers and onions, look for vibrant colors and firm textures to guarantee freshness. The contrast of the sweet bell peppers against the sharpness of the onions creates a balanced flavor profile that complements the chicken beautifully. The minced garlic adds depth and aroma, transforming the overall dish into a fragrant delight from the very beginning.
Mix the Sauce
Creating the sauce is key to infusing a burst of flavor into both the chicken and the vegetables. This step involves combining the low-sodium chicken broth with Worcestershire sauce – a staple in many savory dishes – to impart a rich, umami flavor. The dried oregano adds a subtle herbaceous note, while the freshly ground black pepper and sea salt enhance the overall seasoning, bringing out the natural flavors of all the ingredients involved.
It’s important to stir the sauce well to ensure that all the spices and liquids are properly mixed before pouring it over the chicken and vegetables. This mixture will help prevent the chicken breasts from drying out and create a flavorful broth that will blend seamlessly with the shredded chicken during cooking. The aroma of this sauce as it simmers in the crockpot will be simply irresistible.
Cooking Time
Cooking can be managed on low or high heat, offering flexibility based on your schedule. Setting the dish on low heat allows for a longer cooking time which is perfect for busy days at work or home. This method really lets the flavors deepen and meld together, resulting in a heartier dish. On the other hand, if you’re short on time, the high setting will also yield great results in just a few hours.
Understanding the cooking times is crucial for optimal results; the chicken must reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure safety and perfect tenderness. The key indicator is whether the chicken can be easily shredded with a fork once the cooking time is completed. This shredding process incorporates the vegetables and broth into the chicken, ensuring that every bite offers a blend of juicy chicken and colorful veggies.
Shredding the Chicken
Removing from the Crockpot
After cooking, you’ll carefully extract the chicken to prevent splashing the flavorful juices. This is a delicate process where using two forks makes it easy to break the chicken down into bite-sized pieces. Place the shredded chicken back into the crockpot, mixing it well with the already tender veggies and broth. This step ensures that the chicken absorbs the remaining moisture and flavor, making the filling juicy and delectable.
Shredding the chicken directly into the crockpot avoids dirtying additional dishes while allowing the leftover broth and veggies to coat the chicken perfectly. The goal here is to achieve a consistency that holds together well when packed into the hoagie rolls but is still juicy enough to provide that satisfying experience reminiscent of a classic cheesesteak. The shredded chicken mixture is the heart of this wholesome crockpot chicken Philly cheesesteak, ready to be smothered with melted provolone cheese and stuffed into warm, toasty rolls.
Shredding Technique
The shredding technique plays a crucial role in achieving the desired texture of the chicken Philly cheesesteak. Using two forks, you can easily pull the chicken apart into bite-sized pieces. This method allows the shredded chicken to blend seamlessly with the sautéed vegetables and flavorful broth, creating a cohesive mixture. It’s important to shred the chicken right after removing it from the crockpot, as it will be tender and much easier to shred while still hot. If you prefer more texture, consider shredding with your hands, but be cautious as the chicken will be hot.
Melt the Cheese
Cheese Placement
Placement of the provolone cheese is essential to achieving that gooey, melted topping that enhances the dish’s overall appeal. After shredding the chicken and mixing it with the vegetables, lay the slices of cheese directly on top of the mixture in the crockpot. This positioning allows the cheese to melt evenly under the lid’s warmth, turning into a luscious topping that binds the chicken and veggies together with its creamy texture.
Timing for Melting
To ensure the cheese melts perfectly without overcooking the chicken, cover the crockpot again for about 5-10 minutes after placing the cheese on top. This brief period allows the cheese to soften and become gooey without risking the integrity of the flavors and textures beneath it. Keep an eye on it; the goal is a perfectly melted layer of cheese that complements the dish’s overall consistency.
Creating the Sandwiches
Preparing the Hoagie Rolls
Preparing the whole wheat hoagie rolls correctly is critical for building a sturdy sandwich. Start by cutting the rolls in half lengthwise without detaching them entirely on one side. This technique allows you to create a pocket that stays intact, enabling generous filling without the risk of spilling. Lightly toasting the insides of the rolls can enhance flavor and offer a satisfying crunch while helping to prevent the bread from becoming soggy when filled with the savory chicken mixture.
Assembling the Sandwiches
Assembling the sandwiches is your chance to let your creativity shine. Generously fill each hoagie with the cheesy chicken and vegetable mixture, ensuring each bite is balanced with both protein and veggies. Consider the proportions; a good rule of thumb is to fill the rolls enough for a satisfying bite but not so much that the filling spills out when you take a bite. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, allowing you to customize flavors and amounts according to personal preference.
Optional Toppings and Pairings
Sautéed Mushrooms
Enhancing your sandwiches with sautéed mushrooms is an excellent way to amplify the umami flavor profile. The savory, earthy notes of the mushrooms pair beautifully with the chicken and melted provolone, adding depth to each bite. To prepare, simply slice fresh mushrooms and sauté them in a little olive oil or butter until golden brown before adding them to your sandwich.
Sliced Jalapeños
For those who crave a bit more zest and heat, sliced jalapeños are the perfect addition. Their spice complements the richness of the chicken and cheese, providing a contrast that livens up the flavor profile. Whether you choose fresh or pickled jalapeños, you can easily adjust the heat level to your liking.
Creamy Avocado Slices
Creamy avocado adds not only richness but also a smooth texture that balances the sandwich flavors. Sliced avocado can be layered on top of the chicken mixture before serving, offering a healthy fat component that enhances the overall mouthfeel of the sandwich. Its subtle flavor pairs nicely with the robust taste of the other ingredients.
Presentation Tips
Serving Suggestions
Presenting your wholesome crockpot chicken Philly cheesesteaks on a rustic wooden board elevates the meal’s visual appeal. The natural wood brings warmth to the table, making it an inviting centerpiece for meal gatherings. You may opt to display each sandwich individually or cut them into halves or quarters for easier serving and sharing.
Garnishing
To add a finishing touch, garnish your sandwiches with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Not only do they enhance the dish’s visual appeal with their vibrant green color, but they also contribute a fresh taste that can brighten the entire dining experience. A sprinkle of herbs before serving can make your meal look like it was prepared by a professional chef.
Pairing Ideas
Side Dishes
To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing your wholesome chicken Philly cheesesteaks with crunchy veggie sticks or a light salad. Fresh vegetables add a crisp contrast to the softness of the sandwich, offering additional nutrition while keeping the overall meal light and refreshing. A simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing can complement the savory flavors beautifully.
Beverage Options
Choosing the right beverage can balance your meal perfectly. Light drinks such as sparkling water or iced tea are great options that won’t overpower the rich flavors of the cheesesteak. For a non-alcoholic option, consider infusing water with slices of lemon or cucumber for a refreshing touch that enhances the meal’s overall lightness.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Storage
If you have leftovers, proper storage is key to enjoying your chicken Philly cheesesteaks at a later time. Allow the filling to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Keep the hoagie rolls separate to prevent them from becoming soggy. The chicken mixture can be refrigerated for 3-4 days, while the rolls can be stored at room temperature in a ziplock bag.
Reheating Methods
When it comes time to reheat, there are a couple of methods to maintain the integrity of your meal. For the best results, heat the chicken mixture in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may lightly toast the hoagie rolls in the oven or on a grill for a few minutes before assembling to regain their crispness. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it may lead to a rubbery texture and soften the bread.
Conclusion
This wholesome crockpot chicken Philly cheesesteak offers a satisfying blend of tender shredded chicken, vibrant vegetables, and melted provolone cheese, all nestled in a whole wheat hoagie roll. With a total cooking time of approximately 7 hours, you can prepare a comforting and flavor-packed meal for any occasion. The optional toppings allow for personalization, making every bite an exciting experience.
Wholesome Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 4 slices reduced-fat provolone cheese
- 4 whole wheat hoagie rolls
- optional toppings: sautéed mushrooms sliced jalapeños, or creamy avocado slices
Instructions
- Place the boneless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Layer the sliced red and green bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic over the chicken.
- In a small bowl, mix the chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, black pepper, and sea salt, then pour over the chicken and vegetables.
- Secure the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks, then return it to the crockpot.
- Lay the provolone cheese slices on top and cover for 5-10 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Cut the hoagie rolls in half and fill each with the cheesy chicken and vegetable mixture.
- Add any optional toppings and serve warm.