Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

The Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings. This recipe allows you to enjoy rich flavors without compromising on health. With its tender chicken, colorful veggies, and melty cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare in your slow cooker.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do all the work for you.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of chicken, vegetables, and spices creates a deliciously savory dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it in whole wheat rolls or over rice for a gluten-free option.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and veggies, this dish is as healthy as it is satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: A great way to get picky eaters to enjoy their vegetables without them even noticing!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Large Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Perfect for hands-off cooking; it allows flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Large Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables before adding them to enhance their flavor.
• Sharp Knife: Ensures precise slicing of ingredients, which helps with even cooking.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Chicken: 1.5 – 2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (or Thighs)

For the Vegetables

• Onions: 1 Large Yellow Onion, thinly sliced
• Bell Peppers: 2-3 Large Bell Peppers (mixed colors), thinly sliced
• Garlic: 4-6 Cloves Garlic, minced
• Mushrooms (Optional): 8 oz Cremini or White Button Mushrooms, sliced

For the Broth and Seasonings

• Broth: 1/2 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth
• Worcestershire Sauce: 2 Tablespoons
• Seasonings:
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
• 1 teaspoon Dried Basil (or 2 tsp Italian Seasoning blend)
• 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground
• 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Onion Powder

For the Cheese and Rolls

• Cheese: 8 slices Provolone Cheese (or Shredded Mozzarella)
• Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: 1 Tablespoon (optional)
• Rolls/Serving Vessel: 6-8 Whole Wheat Hoagie Rolls

How to Make Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

• Thinly slice the onion(s) and bell peppers.
• Slice the mushrooms if using. Mince the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables (Optional)

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
• Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Layer in Slow Cooker

• Transfer sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. If not sautéing, place raw vegetables directly in.
• Create a bed of veggies at the bottom.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Liquids

• Place chicken breasts (or thighs) on top of the vegetable layer.
• Pour low-sodium chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce over the chicken.
• Sprinkle with dried oregano, basil, smoked paprika (if using), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 5: Cook Your Dish

• Secure lid on slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours until chicken shreds easily.

Step 6: Shred Chicken

• Carefully remove cooked chicken from slow cooker. Shred using two forks.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

• Return shredded chicken back into slow cooker with vegetables.
• Stir gently to combine everything well.

Step 8: Incorporate Cheese (Optional)

• Stir in half of your cheese directly into the mixture until melted.

Step 9: Toast Rolls

• Lightly toast whole wheat hoagie rolls under a broiler or in a toaster oven.

Step 10: Assemble Sandwiches

• Generously pile warm chicken mixture onto toasted rolls using tongs or a slotted spoon.

Step 11: Top with Cheese

• If not mixed into pot earlier, add slices or sprinkle shredded cheese on top before serving.

Step 12: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your delicious homemade Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteaks!

How to Serve Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Serving your Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is about enhancing the flavors and textures of this delicious dish. Here are some creative ways to enjoy your meal.

On Whole Wheat Rolls

• Whole Wheat Hoagie Rolls: The traditional choice, these rolls provide a hearty base while adding fiber.
• Sub Rolls: Soft and chewy, perfect for holding all the savory chicken and veggies.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves to wrap the filling for a fresh bite.

With Cheese Options

• Provolone Slices: Classic cheese that melts beautifully on top, adding richness.
• Shredded Mozzarella: A lighter option that still gives that gooey texture everyone loves.

Toppings and Condiments

• Sautéed Mushrooms: Add extra flavor with some sautéed mushrooms on top.
• Hot Sauce: For those who like a kick, drizzle some hot sauce over the filling.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds healthy fats and balances the savory flavors.

How to Perfect Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

To make your Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Leaner Cuts: Opt for boneless chicken thighs if you prefer more moisture and flavor compared to breasts.
• Pre-Sauté Vegetables: Sautéing onions and peppers before slow cooking can enhance their sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the mixture before serving; you may want to add more spices or salt based on personal preference.
• Shred Chicken Properly: Ensure the chicken is cooked through for easy shredding. Use two forks for best results.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Don’t hesitate to mix different cheese types for unique flavors and textures in your cheesesteaks.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Pairing your Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked or air-fried sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory cheesesteaks.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides freshness and balances the richness of the sandwich.
3. Coleslaw: Creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw adds crunch and tanginess that complements the cheesesteaks nicely.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers can add color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with herbs offers a healthy side that pairs well with the chicken flavors.
6. Pickles: Tangy pickles serve as a crunchy contrast that cuts through the richness of the cheesesteak filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to less flavor. Sautéing enhances their sweetness and depth, making the final dish more flavorful.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long makes it dry. Stick to the recommended cooking times and check for doneness at 165°F (74°C) to keep it juicy.

• Ignoring Seasonings: Under-seasoning can result in bland flavors. Make sure to use the full range of spices listed in the recipe for a well-rounded taste.

• Using Low-Quality Rolls: Opting for low-quality rolls can diminish the experience. Whole wheat rolls not only add fiber but also hold up better against the filling.

• Not Shredding Properly: Failing to shred the chicken well can create uneven bites. Ensure even shredding for consistent flavor distribution in your sandwiches.

• Neglecting Toasting Rolls: Skipping the toasting step can lead to soggy rolls. Lightly toast them for a better texture that enhances your meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken mixture in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat over medium on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed, while stirring until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe that might help you.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can easily substitute turkey or beef depending on your preference, adjusting cooking times as needed.

What can I serve with Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?

You can pair this dish with a side salad or vegetable sticks for a balanced meal.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms and add more vegetables like zucchini and spinach.

Can I store leftovers of Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak?

Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe is not only simple but also versatile, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheese options. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!