This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
If you’re looking for an easy, flavor-packed dinner that practically makes itself, this Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Sandwich is about to become a regular in your rotation! Tender shredded chicken cooks low and slow in zesty Italian seasoning, then gets piled onto soft rolls with melty cheese and your favorite toppings. It’s cozy, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for busy days when you want something comforting without a lot of effort.
For a sandwich with similar vibes, try my Mississippi Roast Sandwiches, which are a reader favorite! They’re perfect with a side of Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries.
Why you’ll love this Italian chicken sandwich recipe!
If you think cooking in the slow cooker is not worth it, these Italian chicken sandwiches will prove you wrong!
Just like their cousin Italian beef sandwiches, this recipe is packed with big flavor thanks to a combination of Italian seasoning and zippy banana peppers.
- Slow cooker easy. Just toss everything in and let it cook while you go about your day.
- Big, bold Italian flavor. Zesty seasoning infuses every bite of the chicken.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd. Great for game day, parties, or family dinners.
- Versatile and customizable. Add peppers, cheese, or sauces to suit your taste.
- Freezer-friendly. Make a big batch and save some for later.
(Looking for more easy sandwich recipes? Try my Tuna Melt recipe too!)
Table of Contents
Ingredients You Need
This easy lunch or dinner option comes together with just a handful of ingredients.
The full ingredient list with measurements is in the recipe card below.
- Chicken breasts – Lean, tender, and perfect for shredding. Chicken thighs also work.
- Dry Italian seasoning – The key to that signature tangy, herby flavor.
- Banana peppers – Use about half a jar of banana peppers and save a little juice for the bread and slow cooker.
- Crusty bread – I like a crusty roll because they have a bit more structure for holding all the fillings.
- Provolone cheese – Or mozzarella, if you prefer.
- Ranch dressing – Use homemade ranch or store-bought!
How to Make Italian Chicken Sandwiches in the Slow Cooker
- Prepare: Place the chicken breast in a slow cooker and mix it with the Italian seasoning and some of the juice with the banana peppers.
- Cook: Cook the chicken on low for about 5 hours.
- Shred the Chicken: When the chicken is fully cooked, use a fork to shred the chicken.
- Keep Warm: Return the chicken to the slow cooker to stay warm while you make the sandwiches.
- Toast the Bread: Cut and toast the bread until it’s crisp.
- Make It Cheesy: Top with provolone cheese. Toast the top of the bread until the cheese fully melts.
- Add the Chicken: Place it on one side of the bread
- Top It: Add more peppers and ranch dressing.
Serving Suggestions
These Italian chicken sandwiches are hearty on their own, but they’re even better with a simple side:
- Crispy Air Fryer French Fries or sweet potato fries
- Tortellini Pasta Salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Potato chips or kettle chips
- Pickles or marinated olives
Storage Suggestions
- Refrigerator: Store the shredded Italian chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it juicy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Go for a crusty bread when making an Italian chicken sandwich. You want something solid and sturdy, as a very soft bread will get mushy.
Cook chicken with Italian seasoning or dressing and broth in a slow cooker until tender, then shred and serve on rolls with cheese and toppings.
For food safety, it’s best to thaw the chicken first before adding it to the slow cooker.
Popular options include peppers, onions, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and extra Italian dressing.
More Sandwich Recipes You’ll Love
💌 Love easy recipes? Join my newsletter and get my Top 10 Reader-Favorite Recipes eBook FREE! Sign up here.
Need help with this recipe?
Click the buttons below to summarize it, adjust for diets, swap ingredients, or ask your own questions!
Italian Chicken Sandwich
Ingredients
- 3-4 chicken breasts
- 1 package of Italian dressing seasoning
- half a jar of banana peppers and a little of the juice from the jar
- crusty bread
- provolone cheese
- ranch dressing
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts, Italian seasoning, and banana peppers with juice in a slow cooker on low for 5 hours.
- At the end of 5 hours, use a fork to shred the chicken. Add the chicken back into the slow cooker and let it warm up until the sandwich is ready to make.
- Cut and toast your bread. About halfway through the toasting process, add a slice of provolone cheese to the bread and let it fully melt.
- Add the chicken to the sandwich and top with ranch dressing and banana peppers.
Notes
- Toast the buns before assembling for better texture.
- Use chicken thighs if you prefer extra-juicy, richer meat.
Ranch powder or dressing? How much? In the crockpot or on the bun?
Ranch dressing! Add as much as you like on the sandwich just before serving. Hope this helps!