Introduction
Imagine the aroma of tender chicken mingling with sautéed peppers and melted cheese wafting through your kitchen. This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is not only a delight for the senses but also a guilt-free twist on the classic comfort food. Prepare it in your slow cooker for an effortless dinner that promises hearty flavors and satisfying bites without any of the heaviness.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
- 1 cup sliced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 whole wheat hoagie rolls
- 1 cup shredded reduced-fat provolone cheese
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours
Total Time: 6-7 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot, allowing them to soak up all the lovely flavors.
- Layer on the vibrant sliced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic atop the chicken.
- Pour the low-sodium chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce over everything, creating a savory base.
- Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, along with a pinch of salt and pepper, ensuring the mixture is well-seasoned.
- Cover the crockpot, and let it work its magic by cooking on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken becomes fork-tender.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks, mixing it thoroughly with the colorful vegetables and delicious broth.
- Serve the hearty mixture inside the whole wheat hoagie rolls, and don’t forget to top each sandwich generously with the shredded provolone cheese.
- Optional: For an extra touch of indulgence, place the stuffed hoagies under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese until it’s bubbly and golden brown.
Notes or Tips
This recipe is wonderfully versatile! Feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms or spinach, and experiment with different cheese varieties for unique tastes. For a spicier kick, sliced jalapeños can bring an exciting pop of heat!
Cooking Techniques
The slow cooker is truly a home cook’s best friend. It allows the chicken to become juicy and tender while infusing the flavors of garlic, bell peppers, and onions deeply into the meat. If you’re short on time, you can also use leftover roasted chicken, simply shredding it and adding it to the crockpot in the last hour with the cheese for a quick finish!
FAQ
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients and store them in the fridge overnight. Simply add them to the crockpot in the morning and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! The Chicken Philly Cheesesteak mixture freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Conclusion
This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak is the perfect blend of convenience and deliciousness. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a weeknight dinner that will leave your family satisfied and asking for seconds. Dive into this lighter rendition of a classic favorite, and relish every savory bite!