Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Sandwiches

Name: Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Sandwiches
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; 1 cup sliced bell peppers; 1 cup sliced onions; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 6 crusty sandwich rolls; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Gourmet Plates

Enjoy the savory flavors of Italian cuisine with these delicious Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Sandwiches. Perfectly tender chicken is infused with a rich tomato sauce and served on crusty rolls for a satisfying meal.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-25T20:38:27.559Z

These Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Sandwiches are a fantastic way to bring the flavors of Italy to your dinner table with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, making the chicken tender and flavorful, perfect for busy weeknights.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender chicken simmered in a flavorful sauce
Easy to make with minimal prep time
Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prep
Deliciously served on crusty rolls

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When life gets busy, finding time to prepare a wholesome dinner can feel challenging. These Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Sandwiches are the perfect solution. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it. By the time you're ready to eat, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal waiting for you, bursting with Italian flavors.

The combination of tender chicken and vibrant vegetables simmering in marinara sauce creates an irresistible aroma that will make your kitchen feel inviting. Plus, the slow cooking process ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that tastes like it took hours of effort but is actually quite simple to prepare.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best aspects of these sandwiches is their versatility. While the recipe calls for bell peppers and onions, feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables. Mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach can be great additions. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your family's preferences or use up what you have in the fridge.

Additionally, you can switch up the toppings! While mozzarella cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with provolone or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick. You can also add a dollop of pesto or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor.

Perfect for Meal Prep

These Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Sandwiches are not only a hit at the dinner table, but they're also fantastic for meal prep. Make a big batch and portion it out for lunches throughout the week. Simply store the chicken mixture in the fridge and reheat it when you're ready to enjoy a quick meal.

By preparing these sandwiches in advance, you save time and ensure that you have a healthy option ready to go. Pair them with a simple salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal that keeps you satisfied and energized throughout your busy days.

Ingredients

For the Sandwiches

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 cup sliced bell peppers
1 cup sliced onions
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
6 crusty sandwich rolls
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil for garnish

Gather all these ingredients before you start for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Add Vegetables and Sauce

Top the chicken with sliced bell peppers, onions, and pour the marinara sauce over everything.

Cook the Mixture

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Shred the Chicken

After cooking, shred the chicken in the slow cooker using two forks and mix it with the sauce and vegetables.

Assemble the Sandwiches

Toast the sandwich rolls, then fill each roll with the chicken mixture and top with mozzarella cheese.

Melt the Cheese

Place the sandwiches under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh basil and serve while hot.

Enjoy these delicious sandwiches with a side salad or chips!

Tips for Success

For the best texture and flavor, it's essential to use high-quality marinara sauce. Look for brands that use natural ingredients and have no added sugars. This will enhance the overall taste of your sandwiches and ensure you get that authentic Italian flavor.

If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce or a few slices of jalapeños to the chicken mixture. Adjusting the spice level can make these sandwiches even more enjoyable for those who love a little kick in their meals.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sandwiches with a side of crispy potato wedges or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. The crunchy texture of the wedges pairs perfectly with the soft, cheesy chicken filling, while a salad adds a refreshing contrast.

For a more authentic Italian experience, consider pairing your sandwiches with a glass of Italian red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese. These wines complement the rich flavors of the chicken and marinara sauce beautifully, enhancing your dining experience.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can use the microwave or warm them up in a skillet over medium heat. Just add a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the chicken moist.

If you want to freeze the chicken mixture, it can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. This way, you can enjoy a delightful homemade meal any time you crave it, without the need for last-minute cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time.

→ What can I substitute for marinara sauce?

You can use any tomato-based sauce, such as pizza sauce or a homemade tomato sauce.

→ Can these sandwiches be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.