Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Sandwiches are a savory, melt-in-your-mouth meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with zesty, bold Italian flavors. This dish combines tender shredded chicken simmered in a rich, herbed tomato sauce with Italian seasonings, garlic, and pepperoncini peppers, then served on warm, toasted sandwich rolls topped with melted provolone or mozzarella cheese. It’s the kind of hands-off meal that cooks while you go about your day and delivers a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dinner ideal for busy weeknights, game days, or casual gatherings. Whether served plain or with extra toppings like sautéed onions, arugula, or spicy aioli, these sandwiches promise a flavorful bite every time.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers (with a bit of juice)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for moisture)
- 6 sandwich rolls or hoagie buns
- 6 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese
- Butter for toasting the rolls (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Add chicken to the slow cooker. Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker.
Step 2: Layer in flavors. Add the diced tomatoes with their juice, pepperoncini peppers (plus a little brine), chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Add a splash of chicken broth if you prefer a juicier mixture.
Step 3: Cook on low. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreddable.
Step 4: Shred the chicken. Once done, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker and stir to mix with the sauce.
Step 5: Prepare the rolls. Lightly butter and toast your sandwich rolls in a skillet or oven. Then scoop the shredded Italian chicken mixture onto the buns and top each with a slice of cheese. Broil briefly if you want the cheese melted and bubbly.
Variation
- Use shredded rotisserie chicken to cut down on cooking time
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a richer tomato flavor
- Top with sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for added vegetables
- Swap provolone for spicy pepper jack or creamy burrata
- Use ciabatta or focaccia instead of standard rolls
Cooking Notes
- Chicken thighs offer a juicier result than breasts
- Pepperoncini juice adds tang and moisture to the sauce
- If mixture seems dry, stir in a few tablespoons of broth at the end
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add hot cherry peppers
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic Parmesan fries or potato wedges
- Pair with a light Caesar or Italian salad
- Offer a ramekin of warm marinara for dipping
- Add a pickle spear or chips for a deli-style meal
Tips
- Shred the chicken while it’s hot for best texture
- Toast the buns to avoid sogginess
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently to retain moisture
- Double the batch and freeze half for future meals
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: 410 per sandwich
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 760mg
FAQs
Can I make this recipe with frozen chicken?
- Yes, but add 1 extra hour of cook time on low. Always ensure internal temp reaches 165°F.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
- Yes, 3-4 hours on high works well.
Can I make this dairy-free?
- Skip the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives like cashew-based slices.
Can I meal-prep this?
- Absolutely. Prepare and store the shredded chicken in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Sandwiches are proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. The ease of a dump-and-go slow cooker method makes this a weeknight lifesaver, while the bold, zesty flavors ensure it’s anything but boring. Whether you’re serving family dinner or feeding a crowd, these sandwiches deliver satisfaction with minimal effort. You can customize the toppings and bread to your liking, and even turn the leftovers into salads, wraps, or flatbreads. With tender chicken, melted cheese, and Italian herbs all packed into a toasted bun, this recipe is destined to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.