Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s also healthy, you’ve come to the right place! This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day.

What I love most about this recipe is how it brings everyone together around the table. The combination of tender chicken, sweet bell peppers, and melted cheese creates a flavor explosion that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick dinner idea, this dish is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: Just chop, layer, and let your slow cooker do the hard work!
• Family-friendly: With its comforting flavors, this dish is sure to satisfy picky eaters.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep; it stores well for leftovers.
• Wholesome ingredients: Packed with veggies and lean protein for a nutritious meal.
• Flavorful and delicious: The combination of spices and cheese elevates this dish to comfort food status.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe. Each one plays a vital role in creating that classic Philly flavor while keeping things on the healthier side.

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 (mix of colors), thinly sliced
• Garlic: 4-6 Cloves Garlic, minced
• Mushrooms (Optional but Recommended): 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 Assembly

• Cheese: 8 slices Provolone Cheese (Reduced-Fat recommended) OR 1.5 cups Shredded Mozzarella (Part-Skim)
• Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: 1 Tablespoon (Optional)
• Rolls/Serving Vessel: 6-8 Whole Wheat Hoagie Rolls

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to tweak it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or shredded chicken instead of boneless chicken breasts for a different flavor.
• Go vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based option that’s still packed with protein.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some zucchini or spinach for added nutrition without compromising flavor.
• Spice it up: Add some jalapeños or hot sauce if you love a kick!

How to Make Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by thinly slicing your onions and bell peppers. If you’re using mushrooms, slice those too! Mince the garlic cloves as well. The thinner you slice these vegetables, the more tender they’ll become during cooking—plus they’ll integrate beautifully with the chicken.

Step 2: Sauté Your Vegetables (Optional but Recommended)

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add those lovely sliced onions and bell peppers (and mushrooms if you’re using them). Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften and the onions turn translucent. Adding garlic at the end brings out an amazing aroma and adds depth to your dish.

Step 3: Layer in Your Slow Cooker

If you sautéed your vegetables, transfer them into your slow cooker first. If not, just put the raw veggies straight into the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a nice bed that helps keep the chicken from sticking while allowing it to steam perfectly above.

Step 4: Add in Your Chicken & Seasonings

Place your boneless skinless chicken on top of those colorful veggies. Pour in low-sodium broth and Worcestershire sauce over everything. Sprinkle on all those delicious seasonings—make sure each piece of chicken gets coated!

Step 5: Cook Low & Slow

Secure that lid tight! Cook on LOW for about 4-6 hours or HIGH for about 2-3 hours. Your chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F /74°C and shreds easily with two forks.

Step 6: Shred & Mix It Up!

Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it into bite-sized pieces—it’s so tender! Return that shredded goodness back into your slow cooker with all those tasty veggies and juices.

Step 7: Let It Absorb Flavor

Stir everything together gently so every piece of chicken gets coated in those savory juices. Let it sit for another few minutes in warm mode if possible; this allows even more flavor absorption!

Step 8: Cheese It Up!

For cheesy goodness throughout, stir in half of your shredded cheese into the mixture until melted!

Step 9: Toast Those Rolls

While everything melds together nicely, toast your whole wheat hoagie rolls just enough to add texture without getting too crispy.

Step 10: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Using tongs or a slotted spoon (to avoid excess liquid), pile generous amounts of that warm chicken mixture onto each toasted roll.

Step 11: Top with Cheese

If you didn’t mix cheese into the pot earlier, now’s your chance! Top each sandwich with slices of Provolone cheese. If oven-safe, pop them under the broiler for just a minute to melt perfectly!

Step 12: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve immediately while hot! Enjoy every bite of these delightful homemade Chicken Philly Cheesesteaks—it’s comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Cooking in the crockpot is all about simplicity and flavor, so here are some pro tips to make your Chicken Philly Cheesesteak even better!

• Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner meal, but don’t hesitate to use thighs if you want added moisture and flavor. Thighs can make your dish richer without compromising health.
• Layer Veggies Wisely: Start with a bed of vegetables in the slow cooker to help prevent the chicken from sticking. This also allows the chicken to steam above the liquid, keeping it juicy and tender.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: Cooking on low for 4-6 hours will result in more tender chicken compared to cooking on high. Patience pays off when it comes to slow-cooked dishes!
• Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese based on your preference! Mozzarella melts beautifully and is often lower in fat than provolone, giving you flexibility in achieving that gooey texture.
• Adjust Seasonings After Cooking: Always taste your dish before serving; sometimes, a little extra salt or pepper can elevate the flavors significantly. This step ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned.

How to Serve Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Presenting your delicious Chicken Philly Cheesesteaks can be just as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a kick, adding sliced jalapeños gives a nice heat that pairs well with the savory filling.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices add a delightful contrast and healthy fats that enhance both nutrition and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: Baked or air-fried sweet potato fries offer a deliciously sweet and crispy side that’s packed with nutrients.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides freshness and balances the richness of the cheesesteak.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots offers crunch and acidity that cuts through the savory flavors of the sandwich.
• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Lightly steamed veggies add color and nutrients while providing a satisfying crunch alongside your sandwiches.

Enjoy crafting this dish with these thoughtful touches that will surely impress family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, healthy sandwiches throughout the week! With a few simple steps, you can have your meals ready in advance, making it easier to stick to your healthy eating goals.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to separate the chicken mixture from the rolls to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken mixture to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• For best results, label the container with the date and contents.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through or in the microwave.
• If using a microwave, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
• Toast fresh rolls again before serving for that delightful crunch!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about our Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe that might help you out!

Can I use other types of cheese for this Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe?

Absolutely! While provolone is traditional, feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative. Just ensure it melts well for that creamy texture we all love.

How can I adjust this Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe for more flavor?

To boost flavor, consider adding more spices or herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also toss in some jalapeños for heat or switch up your broth to enhance the umami notes.

Can I make this Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe by using a stovetop method. Just simmer everything in a large pot on low heat until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

How long does this Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe take to cook?

Cooking time varies based on whether you’re using LOW (4-6 hours) or HIGH (2-3 hours) settings on your slow cooker. Be sure to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe as much as I do! It’s packed with flavor and nutrition while being simple enough for any weeknight dinner. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings or sides – that’s what makes cooking fun! I’m excited for you to try this dish and share it with family and friends. Happy cooking!