Crock Pot Chicken Cheesesteaks are a delicious twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, featuring tender, slow-cooked chicken breasts, colorful peppers, and onions, all smothered in warm, gooey cheese sauce. Easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting meal is sure to become a family favorite!
Budget Information
The total cost for this recipe is approximately $16.50, which breaks down to about $2.75 per serving (serves 6). Here’s a quick cost rundown:
- Low-sodium chicken broth: $1.00
- Italian dressing: $0.75
- Garlic: $0.50
- Red peppers: $1.50
- Green peppers: $1.50
- Onion: $0.75
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: $7.00
- Seasonings (paprika, Italian seasoning, etc.): $1.00
- Hoagie/sub rolls: $2.00
- Cheez Whiz: $1.50
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is not just easy—it’s a flavor explosion that your taste buds will thank you for! By slow cooking the chicken with savory spices and broth, the meat becomes incredibly moist and tender, allowing it to soak up all those delicious flavors. Plus, with minimal prep and an effortless cleanup, it’s a go-to for any busy weeknight. And let’s not forget the cheesy goodness that comes straight from the melting Cheez Whiz or your favorite cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Gather these tasty ingredients to create your own delicious Crock Pot Chicken Cheesesteaks:
- 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth – $1.00
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (or skip for a simpler flavor) – $0.75
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh or jarred) – $0.50
- 2 green peppers, thinly sliced – $1.50
- 2 red peppers, thinly sliced – $1.50
- 1 onion, thinly sliced (white or yellow) – $0.75
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) – $7.00
- 2 tsp paprika – $0.25
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning – $0.25
- 1 tsp garlic powder – $0.10
- 1 tsp onion powder – $0.10
- 1 tsp coarse kosher salt – $0.05
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – $0.05
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat) – $0.10
- Hoagie/sub rolls – $2.00
- Cheez Whiz or your favorite cheese – $1.50
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Start by adding the low-sodium chicken broth, Italian dressing, and minced garlic into a 5-6 quart crock pot. Give it a little stir to mix those ingredients together, creating a flavorful base for your chicken.
Step 2: Next, toss in the sliced green and red peppers along with the thinly sliced onion. These vibrant vegetables not only add flavor but also that stunning color to your dish. Now, sprinkle half of the dried seasoning mix over these veggies so they soak in every bit of flavor.
Step 3: Time to add the star of the show! Lay the boneless chicken breasts on top of the peppers and onions. Then, sprinkle the remaining dried seasonings over the chicken, ensuring that every bite will be bursting with deliciousness. Cover your crock pot and let’s get cooking!
Step 4: Cook the mixture on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 to 7 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the juices run clear. Your kitchen will be filled with irresistible aromas as the flavors meld together, making it hard to resist sneaking a bite!
Step 5: Once cooked, it’s time to shred the chicken. Use two forks to pull the meat apart, mixing it with the peppers and onions in the pot. I like to leave a few larger chunks for texture, but feel free to shred it to your preferred consistency. The key here is to combine all those tasty elements so each bite is packed with flavor.
Step 6: Finally, serve the savory mixture on soft hoagie or sub rolls. Don’t hold back on that melted Cheez Whiz or your favorite cheese on top! Pop the sandwiches under the broiler for a moment if you’d like that gooey, melted vibe. And voilà, dinner is served!
Nutritional Facts
For one serving of Crock Pot Chicken Cheesesteak, you can expect the following nutritional values:
- Calories: 628
- Protein: 48g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Total Fats: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 2226mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover Chicken Cheesesteak filling is a fridge favorite, perfect for quick lunches! Store the cheesesteak mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s best to keep the filling separate from the rolls to prevent sogginess. To reheat, simply pop the mixture in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If you’re feeling fancy, toast the sub rolls in the oven before piling on the delicious filling!
Serving Suggestions
These Chicken Cheesesteaks are heartily satisfying on their own, but if you’re looking to complete the meal, pair them with crispy French fries, tangy onion rings, or even a fresh green salad to balance out the richness. And for a fun twist, serve with tortilla chips and extra Cheez Whiz for dipping. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Feel free to experiment with the ingredients! Love mushrooms? Toss in some sliced portobellos around the halfway mark for added earthiness. Prefer a different type of cheese? Go for it! Provolone or even a zesty pepper jack can work wonderfully. And remember, the magic of this recipe is its flexibility—make it yours!
Recipe FAQs
What bread is best for Chicken Cheesesteaks? A soft hoagie or sub roll is ideal for holding all that juicy goodness. Check local delis for the freshest options!
Can I add mushrooms? Absolutely! Slice and add them in at the beginning for a nice soft texture, or add them an hour before serving for a firmer bite.
Should I toast the rolls? It’s a personal preference! Toasting can add a nice crunch, but it’s not necessary if you prefer soft rolls.
Can I use a different cheese besides Cheez Whiz? Yes! Feel free to swap in your favorite cheese; provolone and Monterey Jack work beautifully.
How do I store leftovers? Keep leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, separated from the rolls to avoid them getting soggy.