If you are craving an easy yet indulgently flavorful dinner, this Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts slow-cooked to perfection in a rich garlic and Parmesan butter sauce, shredded and piled high on soft sandwich rolls, then topped with melty mozzarella cheese. Every bite bursts with comforting Italian-inspired flavors, making it just the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for effortless meal prep, this recipe hits all the right notes with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is all it takes to create this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role: from tender chicken providing the hearty base, to the buttery garlic Parmesan sauce delivering that irresistible savory punch, and the mozzarella cheese melting into pure deliciousness.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, perfect for shredding after slow cooking.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that deepens the sauce.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted: Creates a rich, velvety base for the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses vibrant aroma and bold flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that enhances the Mediterranean vibe.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Subtle sweetness and depth without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and earthiness.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For anyone who likes a gentle kick of spice.
- 6 sandwich rolls or brioche buns: Soft and sturdy bread to hold all that juicy goodness.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, making each sandwich irresistibly gooey.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal lift.
How to Make Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Sauce
Start by placing the chicken breasts into your slow cooker, creating the perfect canvas for the flavors to meld together. In a small bowl, whisk the melted butter with Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. This vibrant mixture will infuse the chicken with a rich, tangy, and slightly spicy backdrop.
Step 2: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Pour the garlic Parmesan sauce over the chicken, ensuring every piece is covered in that luscious blend. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The magic happens as the low and slow heat breaks down the chicken fibers, making it unbelievably tender and easy to shred. The aroma alone will have your kitchen smelling heavenly.
Step 3: Shred and Coat the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, shred it directly in the slow cooker using two forks. Toss the shredded chicken in the butter and cheese sauce left behind, making sure every bite is coated with that creamy, garlicky goodness that defines this recipe.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches
Toast your sandwich rolls or brioche buns if you prefer a little extra texture and crunch. Pile the shredded chicken generously onto each bun and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Let the residual heat melt the cheese slightly, creating that irresistible gooey layer. Feel free to place the assembled sandwiches under a broiler for 2 to 3 minutes if you crave a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top is a simple way to lift the entire dish with a burst of color and fresh, herbal brightness. The parsley also adds a subtle textural contrast that complements the creamy chicken perfectly.
Side Dishes
These sandwiches pair wonderfully with classic sides like crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a light coleslaw to add some crunch. For those looking to keep things comforting, crispy oven fries or garlic Parmesan pasta work beautifully alongside the rich chicken sandwiches.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the shredded chicken in mini slider buns for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or party snack. You can also turn this dish into an open-faced sandwich served with a drizzle of extra sauce and a side of pickled vegetables. The versatility of this Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe means you can adapt it to suit casual family dinners or festive gatherings alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover shredded chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken separate from the buns prevents the bread from becoming soggy, ensuring your sandwiches stay fresh when reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze the shredded Parmesan garlic chicken by placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra butter if the mixture feels dry. Loading it back onto fresh toasted buns and melting mozzarella cheese again will revive that freshly made taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be more tender and juicy, so they work wonderfully in this recipe. The cooking time remains about the same, and you’ll enjoy even richer flavor and moistness in your sandwiches.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
If you don’t own a slow cooker, you can simmer the chicken breasts and sauce in a covered pot on low heat for about 2 hours, or bake them in a covered dish at 325°F for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Just check regularly to ensure the chicken stays tender and moist.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the sandwich rolls for gluten-free buns or rolls. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you won’t miss any flavor or texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this sandwich?
While this recipe centers on chicken, you could try substituting pulled jackfruit or large grilled portobello mushrooms with the Parmesan garlic sauce for a vegetarian twist. It won’t be the same, but it will still deliver a savory, satisfying sandwich experience.
How spicy does the red pepper flakes make the dish?
The red pepper flakes add a mild heat that gently lingers on the palate without overwhelming the rich Parmesan garlic flavors. You can easily leave them out if you prefer a completely mild sandwich, or add more if you like extra spice.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the ease and flavor that comes together in this Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe. It perfectly balances tender, juicy chicken, rich garlic butter, and melted cheese to create an utterly satisfying meal that’s forgiving for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. I can’t recommend giving it a try enough — once you make these sandwiches, they’ll quickly move to the top of your go-to recipes list. Enjoy every delicious bite!
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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: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches are a perfect effortless dinner option, featuring tender shredded chicken cooked in a rich garlic Parmesan butter sauce, piled high on toasted sandwich rolls and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Ideal for busy weeknights, this comforting recipe combines bold flavors with a hands-off cooking method for a delicious main course.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Sandwich Assembly
- 6 sandwich rolls or brioche buns
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the slow cooker evenly.
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes until fully combined.
- Cook the Chicken: Pour the butter and cheese mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or alternatively on high heat for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and can be shredded easily.
- Shred and Coat: Once cooked, remove the lid, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks, then stir the shredded chicken thoroughly to coat it evenly with the garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Prepare the Sandwiches: Toast the sandwich rolls or brioche buns if desired for extra texture and flavor.
- Assemble: Pile the shredded garlic Parmesan chicken generously onto each roll, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Allow the cheese to melt slightly from the residual heat before serving.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the sandwiches warm.
Notes
- For a crispy twist, place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes to melt and slightly brown the mozzarella cheese.
- You can substitute sandwich rolls with hoagie rolls or ciabatta for a heartier texture and bite.
- Using gluten-free rolls can make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
