Imagine biting into tender, juicy chicken smothered in a rich, creamy garlic and Parmesan sauce, nestled within a perfectly toasted bun. This Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that combines effortless slow cooking with gourmet flavors. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving an indulgent weeknight meal, these sandwiches deliver a mouthwatering experience that’s both easy to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe keeps things refreshingly simple with a few essential ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. From the tangy Parmesan to the creamy mayo and sour cream blend, every item contributes to the luscious texture and irresistible taste of this dish.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: The tender star of the dish that soaks up all those savory flavors perfectly.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Use fresh or pre-shredded for that nutty, salty depth that makes this sauce stand out.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Garlic brings warmth and richness to every bite without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and complexity to the sauce base.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides just enough bite to balance the creamy sauce.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings them together harmoniously.
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs to give a hint of Mediterranean flair.
- ¾ cup mayonnaise: Creates a smooth, creamy foundation for the sauce.
- ¼ cup sour cream: Adds tang and richness that makes the chicken irresistibly moist.
- ¼ cup chicken broth: Keeps everything juicy and melding perfectly during slow cooking.
- 6 sandwich rolls or buns: Choose your favorite type to hold all that flavorful goodness.
- Optional toppings (provolone or mozzarella cheese, baby spinach, arugula, roasted red peppers): Customize your sandwiches with fresh or melty extra touches.
How to Make Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Sauce
Place the chicken breasts or thighs evenly in the bottom of your slow cooker. This forms a perfect base that will soak up the delicious sauce that follows. In a separate bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and dried Italian seasoning for that well-rounded flavor profile. Mix in mayonnaise, sour cream, and chicken broth until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring an even coating for the chicken.
Step 2: Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken
Pour the creamy Parmesan garlic mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, spreading it out to cover every piece. This ensures that as the chicken cooks, it will absorb the tangy and savory flavors, making each bite bursting with flavor and juiciness.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking process tenderizes the chicken beautifully, allowing it to shred easily. The extended cooking time also thickens the sauce, coating the chicken in a creamy, garlicky Parmesan hug that’s pure bliss.
Step 4: Shred and Stir
Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, shred it directly in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir the shredded chicken well so it fully combines with the creamy sauce, creating that perfect balance of texture and flavor for your sandwiches.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
Toast your sandwich rolls if desired to add a bit of crunch and warmth. Pile generous amounts of the creamy garlic Parmesan chicken onto each bun, top with slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese, and add your favorite extras like baby spinach, arugula, or roasted red peppers. Serve immediately while warm for the best experience.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh baby spinach or peppery arugula gives a vibrant green crunch that brightens the creamy richness of the chicken. Roasted red peppers add a smoky-sweet depth and a pop of color that makes each bite more exciting. Don’t skip the melted provolone or mozzarella cheese—it’s the crowning jewel that transforms this sandwich into an irresistibly gooey delight.
Side Dishes
Pair your Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches with crispy oven-baked fries, a fresh garden salad, or even a comforting bowl of tomato soup. These sides complement the creaminess of the chicken with crisp or tangy flavors, rounding out your meal for any occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider making mini sliders using small rolls for parties or snacks. You can also turn the shredded chicken into a hot dip by layering it in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese and baking it until bubbly—perfect for sharing. These sandwiches are so versatile, the presentation is only limited by your imagination!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Simply reheat it gently in a skillet or microwave and pile onto fresh buns for an easy next-day meal that tastes just as delicious.
Freezing
This recipe is freezer-friendly! After cooking and shredding the chicken, let it cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly before assembling your sandwiches.
Reheating
Reheat your Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce feels too thick after refrigeration to help restore its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even more tender and flavorful when slow-cooked, so feel free to substitute them for a richer taste and juicier texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan Parmesan, dairy-free mayo and sour cream. Keep in mind it might slightly change the flavor and creaminess, but the slow cooker method will still yield tender chicken.
How do I prevent the sandwich buns from getting soggy?
To avoid soggy buns, consider toasting them lightly before assembling the sandwiches. You can also serve the creamy chicken on the side as a dip for more crunch and texture contrast.
Can I double this Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe to feed a crowd?
Definitely! Simply double all the ingredients and use a slow cooker large enough to accommodate the extra volume. Cooking times may remain the same, but check for tenderness and adjust if necessary.
What cheese melts best on these chicken sandwiches?
Provolone and mozzarella are top choices as they melt smoothly without overpowering the other flavors. Feel free to experiment with mild cheddar or fontina for a twist on the classic.
Final Thoughts
You’re going to love how this Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches Recipe turns simple ingredients into a sensational meal with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy days, casual dinners, or when you want comfort food that feels like a special occasion. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a staple in your meal rotation. So go ahead, slow cook your way to sandwich bliss!
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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
Description
Slow Cooker Parmesan Garlic Chicken Sandwiches are a delicious and creamy meal featuring tender shredded chicken slow-cooked with Parmesan cheese and garlic. This easy recipe combines flavorful spices, mayonnaise, and sour cream to create a rich sauce, served on toasted buns with optional toppings like provolone cheese and fresh greens. Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd, these sandwiches are sure to be a family favorite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (fresh or pre-shredded)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Sauce
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup chicken broth
Sandwich Assembly
- 6 sandwich rolls or buns
- Optional toppings: provolone or mozzarella cheese, baby spinach, arugula, or roasted red peppers
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly spread out for consistent cooking.
- Mix the seasoning and sauce: In a bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and dried Italian seasoning. Stir in mayonnaise, sour cream, and chicken broth until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add sauce to chicken: Pour the creamy Parmesan garlic mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker, spreading it to coat all pieces thoroughly.
- Cook the chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Shred and coat chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks, then stir well to coat the shredded chicken evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Toast the buns: Optionally, toast the sandwich rolls or buns to your preference for added texture and warmth.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Spoon the creamy garlic Parmesan chicken onto each bun. Top with provolone or mozzarella cheese and optional fresh toppings like baby spinach, arugula, or roasted red peppers.
- Serve warm: Serve the sandwiches warm, optionally broiling for 2–3 minutes to melt the cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a toasted melt-style sandwich, place assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 2–3 minutes to melt the cheese.
- These sandwiches are excellent for meal prep or feeding a crowd—simply double the recipe as needed.
- Use chicken thighs for a moister, more flavorful result; chicken breasts work well too if preferred.
- Feel free to customize toppings with your favorite greens or roasted vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
