If you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and effortlessly delicious, look no further than these Chicken Alfredo Sandwiches in the Crockpot Recipe. This dish brings together tender, slow-cooked chicken bathed in creamy Alfredo sauce, studded with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for a burst of savory flavor. Sliding all that goodness between a soft hamburger bun creates a truly irresistible sandwich that feels indulgent but is so simple to prepare. It’s the kind of recipe that turns any day into a special occasion without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture that make these sandwiches unforgettable. From the creamy Alfredo sauce to the fresh basil, every component is essential to create that perfect balance of richness, freshness, and a slight tang of sweetness.
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The heart of the dish, providing tender and juicy protein that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
- 1½ cups Alfredo sauce: The creamy, cheesy base that makes this sandwich decadently delicious, whether you use store-bought or homemade.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil: Adds a bright, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness perfectly.
- ¼ cup chopped onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth when slow-cooked.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A gentle punch of garlicky goodness that enhances every bite.
- ¼ cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes: Adds vibrant color and a concentrated sweet-tart flavor that lifts the dish.
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty finish that ties the dish together.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to perfectly balance all the ingredients.
- 6 hamburger buns: Soft and sturdy enough to hold all the flavorful fillings without falling apart.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Sandwiches in the Crockpot Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Sauce Ingredients
Start by placing your Alfredo sauce, fresh basil, chopped onion, garlic powder, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper directly into the slow cooker. Give everything a good stir to blend those wonderful flavors together before adding the chicken.
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Next, nestle the chicken breasts into the sauce mixture, making sure each piece is well coated. This step ensures that the chicken will soak up every bit of that creamy, flavorful sauce during cooking.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking method results in the chicken becoming incredibly tender and infused with all those vibrant flavors.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the crockpot and use two forks to shred the meat. This step transforms the chicken into perfect sandwich filling texture – tender and easy to bite into.
Step 5: Mix Shredded Chicken with Sauce
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce, allowing it to soak up even more of that juicy, creamy goodness for about 10-15 minutes on warm.
Step 6: Assemble Your Sandwiches
To build your sandwiches, pile the saucy shredded chicken onto the hamburger buns. For an extra burst of flavor and freshness, top with additional sun-dried tomatoes, shaved Parmesan cheese, and a handful of fresh spinach leaves before closing them up.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Sandwiches in the Crockpot Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil or some extra shaved Parmesan on top adds the perfect finishing touch that not only makes the sandwich look appealing but also enhances the flavors. Fresh spinach or arugula brings a pleasant crispness and a pop of color that livens things up.
Side Dishes
Pair these sandwiches with a light side salad to complement the richness or keep it classic with crispy baked fries or seasoned potato wedges. Steamed or roasted veggies work beautifully too, especially something bright like green beans or asparagus.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the shredded Chicken Alfredo on toasted garlic bread instead of hamburger buns, or turn them into sliders for a party platter. You can also stuff the mixture into pita pockets for a handheld meal with a slightly different texture and flavor profile.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover shredded chicken mixture in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This lets you enjoy this hearty meal again without any loss of flavor or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken Alfredo mixture for up to 3 months. Just cool it completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. Microwave works fine too—just cover and heat in short bursts to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, and they’ll shred beautifully just like breasts in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
Is it necessary to use sun-dried tomatoes?
While sun-dried tomatoes add a lovely tang and color, you can omit them or substitute with roasted red peppers if you prefer. They just bring an extra layer of flavor that complements the creamy Alfredo sauce.
Can I make Alfredo sauce from scratch for this recipe?
Yes, homemade Alfredo sauce works wonderfully and allows you to control the richness and seasoning. Just be sure it’s thick enough to cling to the chicken and not too runny.
What type of buns work best for these sandwiches?
Soft hamburger buns or brioche buns are ideal because they hold the juicy filling well without falling apart, while also adding a touch of sweetness that balances the savory chicken.
Can I prepare this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a crockpot?
You can! Use the sauté function to combine ingredients, then pressure cook on poultry mode for about 15-20 minutes. Make sure to do a quick release and then shred the chicken as usual.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like coming home to the warm, inviting aroma of Chicken Alfredo Sandwiches in the Crockpot Recipe slowly cooking away all day. This recipe is a true gift for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, turning simple ingredients into a luxurious, comforting meal. I hope you give it a try and discover just how effortlessly satisfying these sandwiches can be!
