Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe is a delightful option for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. This recipe combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and melted cheese, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s suitable for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. You’ll love how simple it is to create a comforting dish that satisfies your taste buds without compromising on health.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss all ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Flavorful: The blend of spices and juicy chicken creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile: Enjoy in hoagie rolls, over rice, or as a salad topping for different meals.
• Healthy Twist: Lower in fat with lean chicken and whole wheat rolls while still being hearty.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch for lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe, you will need a few essential tools to ensure success. Having the right equipment makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Large Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, perfect for busy days.
• Large Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables to enhance their flavor before slow cooking.
• Chef’s Knife: Provides precise cuts for uniform cooking of vegetables.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: Helpful for serving and draining excess liquid if desired.

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, thinly sliced (mixed colors are best)
• Garlic: 4-6 Cloves Garlic, minced
• Mushrooms (Optional but Recommended): 8 oz Cremini or White Button Mushrooms, sliced

For the Broth & Sauce

• Broth: 1/2 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth
• Worcestershire Sauce: 2 Tablespoons

For the 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

• Cheese: 8 slices Provolone Cheese (Reduced-Fat recommended) OR 1.5 cups Shredded Mozzarella

For Cooking

• Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: 1 Tablespoon (Optional)

For Serving

• Rolls/Serving Vessel: 6-8 Whole Wheat Hoagie Rolls or Sub 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. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables (Optional)

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

Step 3: Assemble in Slow Cooker

• If you sautéed them, transfer vegetables to the bottom of your slow cooker.
• If not sautéing, directly place raw vegetables in the slow cooker.
• Layer boneless chicken on top of vegetables and pour broth and Worcestershire sauce over it.

Step 4: Season Well

• Sprinkle chicken with oregano, basil (or Italian seasoning), smoked paprika (if using), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 5: Cook

• 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 chicken from slow cooker. Shred with two forks into bite-sized pieces.

Step 7: Mix Together

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

Step 8: Add Cheese

• Optionally stir in half of your cheese into the mixture until melted.

Step 9: Toast Rolls

• Lightly toast whole wheat hoagie rolls under broiler or on dry skillet.

Step 10: Serve

• Pile warm chicken mixture onto toasted rolls. Top with remaining cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious, healthy homemade Chicken Philly Cheesesteaks!

How to Serve Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Serving your Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak can be as creative as it is delicious. Here are some fun ideas to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad – A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed lightly with vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the cheesesteak.
• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine with a homemade or store-bought Caesar dressing adds a creamy contrast that pairs well with the savory chicken.

On Whole Wheat Rolls

• Toasted Hoagie Rolls – Lightly toast whole wheat rolls for added texture and flavor. This prevents them from getting soggy when filled.
• Lettuce Wraps – For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken mixture for a fresh and crunchy bite.

With Dipping Sauces

• Spicy Mustard – A tangy kick that enhances the savory profile of the cheesesteak.
• Creamy Ranch Dressing – Drizzling this on top introduces a cool creaminess that balances the heat and flavors.

How to Perfect Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Achieving the perfect Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak involves a few key steps that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to maximize flavor. Fresh produce provides a vibrant taste compared to dried or canned options.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste before serving! You may want to tweak salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference for a personalized touch.
• Cook Low and Slow – Cooking on low heat allows flavors to meld beautifully. It also ensures the chicken remains tender and juicy.
• Sauté Vegetables First – While optional, sautéing onions and bell peppers before adding them to the slow cooker enhances their sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Let It Rest Before Serving – Allowing the dish to sit in the slow cooker after cooking lets the chicken absorb more flavors from the juices.
• Experiment with Cheese – Try different cheese varieties like pepper jack or even vegan options for unique twists on your cheesesteak.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

Complement your Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak with these delightful side dishes that enhance the overall meal experience.

1. Sweet Potato Fries – Baked or air-fried sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch. They are a healthier alternative to regular fries.
2. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the cheesesteaks.
3. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled until tender provide great flavor alongside your main dish.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette is refreshing and full of nutrients.
5. Roasted Broccoli – Simple roasted broccoli seasoned with olive oil and garlic offers a nutritious side packed with vitamins.
6. Chickpea Salad – A hearty chickpea salad with diced cucumbers, parsley, lemon juice, and olive oil is protein-rich and satisfying.
7. Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brushed with lime juice brings out sweetness that pairs well with savory chicken cheesesteaks.
8. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad adds natural sweetness and balances out savory dishes beautifully; use seasonal fruits for optimal freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Sautéing the vegetables before placing them in the slow cooker enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step; it adds depth to your dish.
• Using High-Sodium Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels. Using regular broth can lead to overly salty cheesesteaks.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can dry it out. Monitor cooking times closely and check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Not Shredding Properly: Failing to shred the chicken well can result in uneven flavors throughout. Ensure it’s shredded into bite-sized pieces for optimal taste.
• Neglecting Toasted Rolls: Serving on untoasted rolls can lead to sogginess. Lightly toast your rolls for added texture and to prevent them from getting mushy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Keep leftovers in an airtight container.
• • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

• • Allow the mixture to cool completely before freezing.
• • Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• • Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm in a covered dish for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container, stirring occasionally, until hot (about 2-3 minutes).
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, turkey works well as a lean alternative. It will still maintain great flavor in this recipe.

How do I customize the cheese?

You can experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy kick in your Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Consider serving with a side salad or baked sweet potato fries for a complete meal that complements your cheesesteaks perfectly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything a day in advance and refrigerate before cooking. Just ensure you follow proper storage guidelines.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different veggies or sauces based on your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a wholesome take on a classic favorite!