Irresistible Slow Cooker Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with a recipe that will make your taste buds sing? Look no further than these mouthwatering Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches! Picture tender chicken infused with savory spices, creamy cheeses, and sun-dried tomatoes, all nestled between buttery brioche buns. This recipe is a game-changer for busy families looking for a meal that’s both convenient and delicious.

Created out of a desire to transform a beloved restaurant pasta dish into a more manageable meal for hectic evenings, these Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches are a stroke of genius. With minimal hands-on time required, you can set it and forget it in the crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Perfect for those days when everyone in the family is on a different schedule but you still crave something special, these sandwiches deliver on taste and convenience.

Imagine the joy of watching even the pickiest eaters devouring these sandwiches with gusto, asking for seconds, and making mealtime magic happen. With the option to customize the fillings to suit everyone’s preferences, from extra spice to different cheese combinations, these sandwiches are versatile and sure to please. Whether enjoyed fresh off the crockpot or reheated the next day for an even more intensified flavor, these Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches are a must-try for anyone seeking comfort food bliss in every bite.

Quick Benefits

• Convenient weeknight dinner solution for busy families
• Customizable to suit different tastes and preferences with added vegetables, spice levels, and cheese variations
• Make-ahead friendly – chicken mixture can be refrigerated for up to four days, allowing for easy reheating
• Crowd-pleasing meal that combines comfort food flavors in a portable and easy-to-eat sandwich format

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Slow Cooker Chicken Sandwich Recipe Recipe

• Convenient Meal Solution: Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need an easy but flavorful meal that requires minimal hands-on work.
• Kid-Friendly: Ideal for picky eaters or children who may not enjoy the original pasta version of the dish.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit different tastes by adding vegetables, adjusting spice levels, or experimenting with different cheese combinations.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance, refrigerated, and reheated for a quick meal option during the week.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great for casual entertaining with a DIY station for guests to customize their sandwiches.
• Rich, Comforting Flavors: Creamy, cheesy chicken with crispy bacon offers a satisfying and indulgent eating experience.
• Practical Tips Included: Recipe tips such as proper ingredient placement and shredding chicken while hot make the cooking process easier and ensure the best results.
• Family Favorite: Testimonials from families show that even picky eaters enjoy these sandwiches, making it a go-to dinner option for many households.

Ingredients for Irresistible Slow Cooker Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Chicken and Seasonings

• 1 lb chicken breast
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Flavorful Additions

• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Creamy Cheese Mixture

• 8 oz block cream cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Sandwich Assembly

• 8 slices bacon
• 6 brioche buns
• Butter or mayo for toasting buns

How to Make Irresistible Slow Cooker Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Step 1: Prep Crockpot and Season

Coat chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes in a greased crockpot.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Combine minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and chicken broth in the crockpot. Stir to ensure tomatoes are submerged in the broth.

Step 3: Slow Cook Chicken

Cook on low heat for 4-6 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and can be easily shredded with a fork.

Step 4: Shred and Add Cheese

Shred chicken using two forks. Return shredded chicken to crockpot, add cream cheese and mozzarella, then continue cooking on low until cream cheese melts.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Mix everything thoroughly until the chicken is uniformly coated with the creamy, cheesy mixture. Keep warm on low heat.

Step 6: Cook Bacon

Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, then drain on paper towels.

Step 7: Toast Buns

Cut brioche buns in half, spread with butter or mayo, and toast until golden brown in a skillet or under the broiler.

Step 8: Assemble Sandwiches

Spread the creamy chicken mixture generously on the bottom halves of toasted buns. Add crispy bacon and the top bun. Serve hot.

Storage Tips

After making the crockpot marry me chicken sandwiches, you can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually intensify and meld together, making the sandwiches even more delicious the next day. To reheat, you can either warm individual portions in the microwave or gently reheat the entire batch in a saucepan over low heat. If you want to maintain the crispiness of the bacon, it’s recommended to store the chicken mixture and bacon separately.

To serve the sandwiches, it’s best to enjoy them immediately after they are prepared when the cheese is gooey and the buns are crispy from toasting. These sandwiches pair well with simple sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance out their richness. For a fun twist, consider setting up a DIY station where guests can customize their sandwiches with additional fillings or toppings, such as roasted red peppers, spinach, or different cheese combinations. These sandwiches are versatile and can be easily customized to suit different preferences, making them a great option for casual entertaining or family dinners.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make some ingredient substitutions for the Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches, there are a few options to consider. For a lighter version, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast. This swap will add a bit more flavor and moisture to the dish. If you prefer a different type of cheese, feel free to experiment with alternatives like cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick. These cheeses can bring their unique flavors to the dish while still maintaining that gooey, cheesy texture.

To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, you can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based protein option. The tofu can absorb the flavors of the seasonings and cream cheese while still providing a hearty and satisfying bite. Additionally, you can replace the bacon with crispy smoked tempeh or your favorite vegetarian bacon alternative to maintain that smoky flavor and crunchy texture. These swaps will allow you to enjoy a delicious meatless version of the sandwiches while still capturing the essence of the original recipe.

Serving Suggestions

These Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches are a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. Serve them straight from the crockpot onto toasted brioche buns, allowing the gooey cheese and savory chicken to shine. For a fun dinner party idea, set up a DIY sandwich station with various toppings like fresh basil, roasted red peppers, or jalapeños for guests to customize their sandwiches.

To elevate these sandwiches further, consider experimenting with different cheese combinations such as provolone or Parmesan, or adding extra spice with more red pepper flakes or hot peppers. The chicken mixture can be made ahead and reheated for an easy meal prep option, ensuring that the flavors have time to meld and intensify. Enjoy these sandwiches alongside simple sides like roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

FAQs for Irresistible Slow Cooker Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your taste preferences. You can try adding Parmesan, provolone, or any other type of cheese that melts well.

How can I prevent the sun-dried tomatoes from burning in the crockpot?

Make sure to push the sun-dried tomatoes down into the broth properly to prevent them from burning. This will help them rehydrate and infuse their flavor into the dish without becoming bitter.

Can I prepare the chicken mixture in advance and reheat it later?

Yes, you can store the chicken mixture in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole batch in a saucepan over low heat. Store the chicken mixture and bacon separately to maintain the bacon’s crispiness when reheating.

What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

You can customize these sandwiches by adding different vegetables like roasted red peppers or spinach to the chicken mixture. For extra spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños. Additionally, you can experiment with different cheese combinations or add fresh herbs like basil for added flavor.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed making and savoring these delightful Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches as much as I have! The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its delicious flavors but also in its adaptability to suit various tastes and schedules. Whether you’re a busy parent like me looking for a convenient yet satisfying meal solution or a food enthusiast eager to experiment with different flavor combinations, these sandwiches are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Remember, don’t be afraid to get creative with the ingredients and make this recipe your own. From adding extra veggies to spicing things up with jalapeños, the possibilities are endless. And don’t forget to share your culinary adventures with family and friends—these sandwiches are perfect for gatherings and casual get-togethers, allowing everyone to customize their meals just the way they like.

So, gather your ingredients, set up your crockpot, and get ready to enjoy a scrumptious meal that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. These Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches are more than just a recipe—they’re a celebration of good food, happy moments, and the joy of sharing delicious meals with the ones you care about. Cheers to many more delightful cooking experiences ahead with these irresistible sandwiches!