Ultimate Lazy Slow Cooker Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwich Recipe

Quick & Savory Slow Cooker Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwich Recipe

Weeknight dinners demand quick, delicious solutions that satisfy hungry appetites with minimal effort.

This mouthwatering slow cooker chicken cheesesteak sandwich recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal kitchen time.

Tender chicken simmers in rich, savory seasonings, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that beats takeout any day.

Philly-inspired comfort arrives straight from your slow cooker, promising a hearty meal without hours of preparation.

Melted cheese cascades over perfectly seasoned chicken, nestled within a soft, crusty roll that captures every delectable bite.

The magic happens effortlessly, transforming simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a restaurant-quality indulgence.

Hungry families and friends will devour these sandwiches, making dinner both stress-free and memorable.

Lazy Slow Cooker Chicken Cheesesteak Reasons to Love

  • Transform complex cheesesteak preparation into an ultra-easy slow cooker method that requires minimal hands-on effort and delivers maximum flavor.
  • Swap cheeses, add extra seasonings, or include different vegetables to personalize the sandwich without compromising the simple cooking technique.
  • Prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store in the refrigerator, making it perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunch solutions.
  • Create a crowd-pleasing meal that appeals to both kids and adults, with tender chicken and classic cheesesteak flavors everyone will love.

Ingredients for Easy Crockpot Chicken Cheesesteak

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: A lean and tender protein that becomes succulent and easily shreddable when slow-cooked.
Aromatic Vegetables:
  • Onions, Mushrooms: These vegetables add depth of flavor and create a rich, savory base for the sandwich filling.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Garlic Salt, Oregano: These classic seasonings provide a robust and traditional taste profile to the chicken.
  • Olive Oil: Helps to prevent sticking and adds a subtle richness to the dish.
Sandwich Components:
  • Hoagie Rolls: A classic sandwich bread that provides a sturdy and delicious vessel for the chicken mixture.
  • Cheese: Adds creaminess and enhances the overall flavor of the sandwich.

Tools for Stress-Free Chicken Cheesesteak Nights

  • Slow Cooker: Essential for cooking chicken, onions, and mushrooms with minimal effort.
  • Two Forks: Perfect for shredding cooked chicken quickly and easily.
  • Broiler or Oven: Needed to melt cheese and toast hoagie rolls for final sandwich preparation.
  • Cutting Board: Helpful for any potential slicing or preparing ingredients.
  • Tongs or Spatula: Useful for handling and mixing ingredients in the slow cooker.

Chicken Cheesesteak Steps for Busy Cooks

Step 1: Sauté Aromatic Onions

Toss diced onions into the slow cooker with a drizzle of olive oil.

Let the onions soften and caramelize on high heat for 5-6 hours, or gently cook overnight on low.

The slow cooking process will develop deep, rich flavors that make this sandwich extraordinary.

Step 2: Introduce Hearty Mushrooms

Drain the mushrooms and fold them into the golden onions.

Stir gently to combine and distribute the earthy mushroom flavor throughout the mixture.

Step 3: Layer Tender Chicken

Nestle chicken breasts into the onion-mushroom base.

Sprinkle generously with garlic salt and oregano for a burst of seasoning.

Cover and slow cook on low for 3-4 hours until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 4: Transform Chicken Into Succulent Shreds

Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker.

Using two forks, pull the meat apart into delicate, tender shreds.

Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix thoroughly with the onions and mushrooms.

Continue cooking on low for another hour, then switch to warm to keep everything perfectly heated.

Step 5: Craft The Perfect Sandwich

Slice hoagie rolls lengthwise and generously fill with the chicken, onion, and mushroom mixture.

Top with your favorite cheese:
  • Provolone
  • Pepper Jack
  • American Cheese
  • Swiss Cheese

Place under the broiler for 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes gloriously bubbly.

Step 6: Serve And Savor

Close the sandwich, slice diagonally, and serve immediately.

Enjoy the mouthwatering combination of tender chicken, caramelized onions, and melted cheese in every delightful bite!

Tips for Juicy, Flavorful Chicken Sandwiches

  • Sprinkle extra garlic salt and oregano on chicken for a deeper, more robust taste profile.
  • Keep chicken moist by cooking on low heat and checking internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
  • Choose melty cheeses like provolone or white american for the best gooey texture and authentic cheesesteak experience.
  • Prepare chicken mixture ahead of time and store in refrigerator for quick assembly during busy weeknights.
  • Swap hoagie rolls with lettuce wraps or gluten-free rolls to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.

Cheesesteak Variations for Every Palate

  • Gluten-Free Delight: Replace hoagie rolls with gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Spicy Jalapeño Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the slow cooker for a zesty, heat-packed sandwich experience.
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Swap chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken substitute, maintaining the same cooking method and seasonings.
  • Low-Carb Option: Skip the bread entirely and serve the chicken mixture over cauliflower rice or mixed greens for a protein-packed meal.

How to Serve Up Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Sandwiches

  • Party Platter Paradise: Create a stunning spread with multiple sandwiches, sliced into bite-sized portions for easy sharing during game nights or casual gatherings.
  • Picnic Perfect Wrap: Pack the chicken mixture in a thermal container and bring separate rolls for an outdoor meal that's simple to assemble and delightfully tasty.
  • Side Dish Companions: Pair the sandwich with crispy potato chips, tangy coleslaw, or a fresh green salad to balance the rich, savory flavors of the chicken cheesesteak.
  • Leftover Magic: Transform remaining chicken mixture into a hearty topping for nachos, stuffed peppers, or a protein-packed salad for quick next-day meals.

Storing Leftover Chicken Cheesesteak

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Transfer chicken mixture to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label with date and contents.
  • Place sandwich filling in microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Wrap sandwich in aluminum foil to retain moisture. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Add fresh cheese on top for extra melty goodness.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure they are fully thawed and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

  • What type of cheese works best for this sandwich?

Provolone, American, or Cheez Whiz are traditional choices for cheesesteaks. Pick a cheese that melts well and matches your taste preference.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe isn’t naturally gluten-free due to hoagie rolls. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free rolls or serve the chicken mixture over rice or in a lettuce wrap.

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Ultimate Lazy Slow Cooker Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwich Recipe

Ultimate Lazy Slow Cooker Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwich Recipe


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4.9 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 10 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty chicken cheesesteak sandwich brings Philadelphia’s classic street fare into home kitchens with minimal effort. Slow cooker magic delivers rich, tender meat draped in melted cheese, promising a satisfying meal you’ll crave repeatedly.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 2 lbs chicken breast

Vegetables:

  • 12 oz (340 grams) frozen diced onion
  • 8 oz (226 grams) canned sliced mushrooms, drained

Seasonings and Oils:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground pepper

Cheese Options:

  • American cheese
  • Provolone cheese
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Cheese whiz

Bread:

  • Hoagie rolls
  • Crusty Italian sub rolls

Instructions

  1. Combine diced onions and olive oil in the slow cooker, setting it to high for 5-6 hours or low overnight to create a flavorful base.
  2. Drain mushrooms and incorporate them into the cooked onion mixture, stirring thoroughly to distribute evenly.
  3. Position chicken breasts atop the onion-mushroom blend, generously seasoning with garlic salt and oregano for robust flavor.
  4. Slow cook on low for 3-4 hours until chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring complete protein doneness.
  5. Transfer chicken to a cutting board and meticulously shred using two forks, creating tender, bite-sized pieces.
  6. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker, blending with onions and mushrooms for an additional hour on low setting.
  7. Keep the mixture warm until serving time to maintain optimal temperature and moisture.
  8. Split hoagie rolls lengthwise and generously fill with the aromatic chicken mixture.
  9. Strategically layer chosen cheese over the filling for maximum melting potential.
  10. Broil the open-faced sandwiches for approximately 5 minutes, watching carefully to achieve perfectly melted, golden-brown cheese.
  11. Fold the sandwiches closed and serve immediately while piping hot and incredibly delicious.

Notes

  • Prep Ahead: Dice onions and measure spices in advance to streamline cooking process and reduce day-of preparation time.
  • Cheese Variations: Experiment with provolone, white cheddar, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles and texture experiences.
  • Moisture Control: If mixture seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or worcestershire sauce to enhance juiciness and prevent chicken from becoming tough.
  • Dietary Adaptations: Use gluten-free hoagie rolls or lettuce wraps for low-carb option, and choose dairy-free cheese alternatives for lactose-sensitive individuals.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 hours
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 900 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Marcus Reed

Marcus Reed

Founder & Food Content Creator

Expertise

Single-recipe development, Seasonal and local ingredient utilization, Food photography and styling, Culinary writing and content creation​

Education

Culinary Arts Certificate, Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, WV
Focus: Fundamentals of culinary techniques, emphasizing hands-on experience in small-scale kitchen settings.


Marcus’s story begins in Asheville, where good food and family kitchens shaped his earliest memories. After hands-on culinary training and a lot of trial (and a little error), he realized that real cooking isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection.
At Pan and Oven, Marcus crafts recipes that are easy to follow, packed with flavor, and built for real kitchens.

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