There’s something utterly comforting about the smell of garlic bread creeping through my kitchen, especially when it hints at a delicious dinner on the horizon. After a long day, the last thing I want is to pull together a complicated meal. That’s where these Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Sandwiches come in, transforming your busy weeknights into a savory Italian feast with minimal effort. Picture this: succulent chicken simmering in tangy tomato sauce, piled generously onto crispy garlic bread, each bite enveloped in gooey Provolone cheese and aromatic basil.
This recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also brings the essence of Italian comfort food right to your table. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will have your family asking for seconds. So, grab your slow cooker and let’s dive into a dish that’s as easy to make as it is enjoyable to eat!
Why are Italian Chicken Sandwiches a must-try?
Flavor-packed goodness: Each bite is bursting with succulent chicken and rich tomato sauce, making your taste buds sing.
Effortless meal prep: Simply set it and forget it in the slow cooker, perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-pleaser: This recipe is sure to impress family and friends, leaving them asking for your secret.
Textural delight: Enjoy the contrast between gooey Provolone and crispy garlic bread—comfort food at its finest.
For more easy meal ideas, check out our collection of delicious slow cooker recipes.
Italian Chicken Sandwiches Ingredients
• To create these comforting Italian chicken sandwiches, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken Mixture
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star of your dish, providing tender and juicy protein.
- 1/2 cup good Italian dressing – Adds vibrant flavor and moisture; a homemade vinaigrette works beautifully, too!
- 2 tbsp tomato paste – Deepens the tomato flavor; swap in canned crushed tomatoes if you’re in a pinch.
- 1 tsp sugar – Balances the acidity for a well-rounded taste; it can be omitted for a less sweet profile.
- 1/2 tsp salt – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to suit your taste preferences.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes – Provides a hint of heat; feel free to omit for a milder sandwich.
- 1 (15 oz) can petite cut diced tomatoes, drained – Adds moisture and texture; you can use fresh tomatoes if preferred.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped – Brings in fresh and aromatic notes; substitute with dried basil, but use sparingly.
For the Assembly
- 4 slices Provolone cheese – Melts beautifully and complements the flavors perfectly; mozzarella or cheddar is also great!
- 8 slices frozen garlic bread – The delicious base for your sandwiches; homemade garlic bread is a delightful fresh alternative.
These Italian chicken sandwiches are comforting, easy, and will make your family come back for more. Enjoy bringing them to life in your kitchen!
How to Make Italian Chicken Sandwiches
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Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a 6-quart slow cooker. This forms the flavorful foundation of your sandwich—no need to cut them up just yet!
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Add Tomatoes: Pour the drained diced tomatoes over the chicken. Their juicy goodness will infuse the dish with incredible flavor during cooking.
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Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, tomato paste, sugar, salt, and red pepper flakes. Pour this lively mixture over the chicken and tomatoes, ensuring everything gets a good coating.
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Cook Slowly: Cook on LOW for 6 hours with the lid on. The chicken will become tender and easy to shred—trust the process; it’s worth the wait!
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Prepare Garlic Bread: While the chicken is cooking, follow the package instructions for the garlic bread. Add the Provolone cheese during the last minute of baking so it melts deliciously.
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Shred the Chicken: Once the cooking time is up, shred the chicken in the slow cooker with two forks. Switch the slow cooker to WARM and stir in the fresh chopped basil for an aromatic finish.
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Assemble the Sandwiches: Pile the chicken mixture onto cheesy garlic bread slices, topping with another slice to form sandwiches. Serve immediately and relish the comforting flavors!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra basil on top for an added touch of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken mixture up to 3 days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving. Additionally, you can shred the chicken and keep it separate from the garlic bread to maintain its freshness and crispness. When you’re ready to finish the dish, simply bake the garlic bread as directed, adding the Provolone cheese during the last minute so it melts beautifully. This simple prep allows you to enjoy delicious Italian chicken sandwiches with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Italian Chicken Sandwiches?
Transform your meal into a delightful feast with mouthwatering sides that perfectly complement your Italian Chicken Sandwiches.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet and savory fries add a delightful crunch and vibrant color, perfect for dipping alongside your sandwich.
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Garlic Butter Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed in garlic and butter bring freshness and a contrasting texture to balance the richness of the sandwich.
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Classic Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing elevate your meal while providing a refreshing contrast to the hearty sandwich.
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Coleslaw: This creamy, crunchy side offers a deliciously tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the chicken, making every bite enjoyable.
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Italian Pasta Salad: With its fresh veggies and zesty Italian dressing, this dish brings vibrant flavors that mirror those in your sandwiches, creating a cohesive dining experience.
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Minestrone Soup: A warm bowl of hearty minestrone enriches the Italian theme, delivering comforting flavors and filling components that harmonize beautifully with the sandwiches.
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Homemade Bruschetta: Easy to prepare and bursting with fresh tomatoes and basil, this appetizer provides a light and flavorful start to your meal that everyone will love.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: For drinks, a refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea complements the flavors wonderfully, quenching thirst and enhancing your dining experience.
Italian Chicken Sandwiches Variations
Feel free to make these sandwiches your own with delightful tweaks and substitutions!
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Cheese Swap: Use mozzarella or pepper jack for a different cheesy experience. Each variety offers a unique flavor twist that adds a personal touch to your sandwich.
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Veggie Boost: Add sautéed bell peppers or onions for extra sweetness and a pop of color. Not only do they enhance texture, but they also give your dish a wholesome twist.
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Wrap It Up: Use lavash or tortillas instead of garlic bread for a low-carb option. This makes for a delicious handheld meal that’s easy to enjoy on the go.
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Spice Up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for those who enjoy a kick. It’s a fun way to make your sandwich sizzle!
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Fresh Pesto: Spread a layer of pesto on the garlic bread before adding the chicken for a fresh herby flavor. This adds a wonderful depth that complements the Italian theme.
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Creamy Spin: Blend in a dollop of cream cheese with the chicken for a richer, creamier texture. It makes every bite ultra-indulgent and satisfying.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with mixed Italian herbs—oregano and thyme pair wonderfully with the basil. This will add an aromatic dimension that’ll take your sandwich to the next level.
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Meat Variations: Swap in cooked Italian sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick alternative. Both options bring bold flavors without all the prep time.
Enjoy the journey of creating a personalized Italian chicken sandwich that speaks to your taste buds!
How to Store and Freeze Italian Chicken Sandwiches
Fridge: Store leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures the flavors remain fresh and intact while keeping the chicken moist.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shredded chicken mixture for up to 3 months. Use an airtight freezer bag, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm. Serve on fresh garlic bread for a delightful experience.
Garlic Bread: Store any leftover cooked garlic bread in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Expert Tips for Italian Chicken Sandwiches
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Chicken Submersion: Ensure the chicken is fully submerged in the sauce for optimal flavor and tenderness. This prevents dryness and ensures the chicken absorbs all those Italian spices!
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Spice Adjustments: Adjust red pepper flakes based on your spice preference. If your family prefers milder flavors, simply omit or reduce them without sacrificing taste.
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Timely Shredding: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before shredding. This ensures safety and moistness.
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Crispiness Matters: If preparing ahead, shred the chicken and store it separately from the garlic bread to maintain its crispness. A soggy sandwich is never ideal!
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Flavorful Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Different cheeses and toppings like sautéed bell peppers or onions can elevate your Italian Chicken Sandwiches to new heights.
Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Sandwiches Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe tomatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Sandwiches, look for tomatoes that are firm, smooth, and free from blemishes. Ideally, they should be a rich red color without any dark spots. If you opt for fresh tomatoes, using vine-ripened varieties can elevate the taste beautifully.
How should I store leftover chicken sandwiches?
Very simply! Place any leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or stovetop before serving on fresh garlic bread. Just make sure to keep the garlic bread separate so it remains crispy.
Can I freeze the chicken mixture for later use?
Of course! To freeze the shredded chicken, transfer it to an airtight freezer bag or container, removing as much air as possible. This will help prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What if my chicken comes out dry after cooking?
Don’t worry; this can happen! Always ensure the chicken breasts are fully submerged in the sauce during cooking. If you find them dry, next time, try adding a little more liquid (like chicken broth or extra dressing) to the slow cooker. Also, consider checking the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for perfect tenderness.
Can I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you have allergies to certain ingredients, such as gluten, you can use gluten-free garlic bread or skip it altogether and serve the chicken mixture over a salad. For dairy concerns, you can substitute the Provolone cheese with a dairy-free alternative or simply omit the cheese altogether. The flavor will still be delightful!
What’s the best way to ensure my garlic bread stays crispy?
For the best texture, I recommend cooking the garlic bread right before you’re ready to serve the sandwiches. If you’ve made huge batches ahead of time, store the garlic bread separately after cooking and reheat in the oven to restore its crispiness. Enjoy those crunchy bites!
Mouthwatering Italian Chicken Sandwiches in the Slow Cooker
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the chicken breasts in a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Pour the drained diced tomatoes over the chicken.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, tomato paste, sugar, salt, and red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture over the chicken and tomatoes.
- Cook on LOW for 6 hours with the lid on.
- Follow the package instructions for the garlic bread, adding the Provolone cheese during the last minute of baking.
- Shred the chicken in the slow cooker with two forks and stir in the fresh chopped basil.
- Pile the chicken mixture onto cheesy garlic bread slices, topping with another slice to form sandwiches.