If you’re looking for a meal that feels like a warm hug in sandwich form, the Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe is your answer. Tender, juicy chicken slow-cooked to perfection with savory Parmesan and garlic creates a melt-in-your-mouth filling that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor. These sandwiches come together effortlessly, making them ideal for busy days or casual gatherings. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a favorite for family dinners and weekend lunches alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that combine to create an unforgettable taste experience. Each one plays an essential role, whether it’s adding creaminess, depth of flavor, or the perfect sandwich texture.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: The heart of the dish, slow cooking these results in tender, shred-ready chicken.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, nutty flavor that’s indispensable for that signature Parmesan taste.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with savory garlic goodness without overpowering it.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Gives subtle sweetness and depth, balancing the garlic and cheese.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Brings in a herbaceous touch that reminds you of classic Italian cooking.
- 1 cup chicken broth (or water): Keeps the chicken moist and helps develop those rich flavors as it cooks.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise or cream cheese (optional): For extra creaminess that melts beautifully into the shredded chicken.
- 6 sandwich rolls or buns (brioche, ciabatta, or hoagie): Choose your favorite for the perfect base and great texture contrast.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese (optional): Perfect for topping and adding melty, gooey cheese that makes these sandwiches irresistible.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional): Great for brushing the buns before toasting to add richness and crunch.
- Fresh spinach or arugula: Brightens the sandwich with a little peppery freshness.
- Pickles: Provide a tangy crunch that cuts through the creamy chicken.
- Sliced tomatoes: Add juiciness and vibrant color.
- Coleslaw: Offers a cool, crisp contrast that balances the richness.
- Roasted red peppers: Bring smoky sweetness and beautiful color.
How to Make Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker, and pour in the chicken broth. This simple base is essential for ensuring the chicken stays moist during the long cooking process.
Step 2: Season Generously
Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken. Carefully stir to coat everything in these flavorful seasonings, setting the stage for the rich taste that’s to come.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The slow cooking transforms the chicken into a tender, fork-tender delight, soaking up every bit of the Garlic Parmesan goodness.
Step 4: Shred and Mix
With two forks, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. If you want to add a touch of creaminess, stir in mayonnaise or cream cheese now. This creates a luscious texture that makes the filling even more irresistible.
Step 5: Toast Your Buns (Optional)
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Brush the insides of your sandwich rolls with melted butter and toast them on a baking sheet for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden color. This step adds a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft chicken.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches
Pile the shredded Garlic-Parmesan chicken onto the toasted buns. If you want to take this recipe to the next level, sprinkle mozzarella or provolone cheese on top and pop the assembled sandwiches back into the oven for 3 to 5 minutes to melt the cheese perfectly.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Serve your sandwiches immediately while they’re warm and gooey. You can garnish with fresh herbs if you want an extra touch of color and flavor.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
Add fresh spinach or arugula for a peppery bite, sliced tomatoes for juiciness, and some pickles for that tangy crunch. Roasted red peppers make a gorgeous and flavorful addition, while coleslaw offers a crisp texture contrast that complements the creamy chicken beautifully.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with simple sides like crispy potato chips, a crisp green salad, or even sweet potato fries. For a heartier meal, consider a bowl of your favorite soup or a side of roasted vegetables to keep the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these sandwiches open-faced with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a rustic look. You could also turn them into sliders for parties or pour the shredded chicken over a bed of lettuce for a low-carb twist. No matter how you present them, this recipe is sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover chicken and buns separately in airtight containers. The shredded chicken will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining its flavor and moisture.
Freezing
You can freeze the shredded chicken by sealing it in an airtight freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the buns to preserve their texture; instead, toast fresh buns when ready to serve.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to bring back its juiciness. Toast buns separately in the oven or toaster for the best texture before assembling your sandwiches again.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for the Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be more tender and flavorful, and they work wonderfully in this recipe. The slow cooker cooks them to perfect shredding consistency just like breasts.
Is it necessary to add mayonnaise or cream cheese?
Not mandatory, but adding mayo or cream cheese enhances the creaminess of the shredded chicken, making the sandwich extra luscious. If you prefer a lighter version, you can skip this step without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes. The chicken can be cooked and shredded ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Toast buns and assemble sandwiches just before serving for the freshest experience.
What type of cheese works best for melting on top?
Mozzarella and provolone are both excellent choices for melting cheese on top of these sandwiches. They add gooey texture without overpowering the Parmesan flavor in the chicken.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Of course! You could add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix or mix it into the shredded chicken for a little kick. Adjust heat levels to your taste.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with the Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe. It marries simplicity and incredible flavor in the best possible way, making it an unbeatable option for busy days or laid-back meals that still impress. Give it a try and watch how your friends and family fall in love with every bite just like I did!
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Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches are a delicious and effortless meal perfect for busy days. Tender, juicy chicken is slow-cooked with Parmesan and garlic, then shredded and mixed to creamy perfection. Served on toasted buns with melted cheese and fresh toppings, these sandwiches offer a flavorful and hearty option that’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
Creamy Addition (Optional)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise or cream cheese
Sandwich Components
- 6 sandwich rolls or buns (brioche, ciabatta, or hoagie)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese (optional for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional for toasting buns)
- Fresh spinach or arugula
- Pickles
- Sliced tomatoes
- Coleslaw
- Roasted red peppers
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker, then pour in the chicken broth (or water) to keep the meat moist during cooking.
- Season generously: Evenly sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Stir gently in the slow cooker to coat the chicken evenly with the seasonings.
- Cook low and slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on the low setting for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender enough to shred easily with a fork.
- Shred and mix: Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. If opting for added creaminess, stir in mayonnaise or cream cheese at this point until fully incorporated for a luscious texture.
- Toast your buns (optional): Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the insides of sandwich rolls with melted butter and place them on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes until lightly golden and crisp.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Pile the shredded Parmesan garlic chicken generously onto each toasted bun. If desired, layer on shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese and return the sandwiches to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes to melt the cheese perfectly.
- Serve hot: Serve the sandwiches immediately, garnished with fresh spinach, arugula, pickles, sliced tomatoes, coleslaw, or roasted red peppers as preferred. Enjoy with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, opt for chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Using mayo or cream cheese adds creaminess but can be omitted for a lighter sandwich.
- To make these sandwiches gluten-free, use gluten-free rolls or buns.
- Leftover chicken mixture can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Adding fresh herbs such as parsley or basil can enhance the flavor.
