Slow Cooker Chicken Caesar Sandwiches Recipe

Previous Next

Cook Time: 200 minutes

Chicken Caesar Sliders

Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup creamy Caesar dressing, plus more for serving
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 6 hamburger buns or 12 slider buns, toasted
• 2 cups shredded romaine lettuce

Directions

Step 1: Gather all the ingredients.

Step 2: Combine chicken and chicken broth in a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker. Cover and cook on Low for 3 to 4 hours for breasts or 4 to 5 hours for thighs, or on High for 1 1/2 to 2 hours for breasts or 2 to 2 1/2 hours for thighs.

Step 3: Once the chicken is fully cooked, transfer it to a cutting board and shred it using two forks. Discard the cooking liquid.

Step 4: Add the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker along with Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Cover and cook on High for an additional 20 minutes or until heated through.

Step 5: Stir in the chopped parsley for added flavor.

Step 6: Divide the hot chicken mixture between the buns and top with shredded romaine lettuce. Optionally, drizzle with more Caesar dressing for extra richness.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 1157
• Total Fat: 78g (100% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 22g (108% DV)
• Cholesterol: 301mg (100% DV)
• Sodium: 1822mg (79% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 47g (17% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (15% DV)
• Total Sugars: 11g
• Protein: 69g (138% DV)
• Vitamin C: 6mg (7% DV)
• Calcium: 266mg (20% DV)
• Iron: 10mg (55% DV)
• Potassium: 970mg (21% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Slow Cooker Chicken Caesar Sandwiches

The Slow Cooker Chicken Caesar Sandwich is a modern twist on the classic Caesar salad, which was originally created in Tijuana, Mexico, in the 1920s by Italian-American restaurateur Caesar Cardini. While the original salad featured crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and a distinctive Caesar dressing, culinary innovators in the United States began experimenting with it in handheld forms. Transforming this iconic salad into a sandwich makes it portable, hearty, and ideal for busy lifestyles, reflecting the evolution of comfort food in American cuisine.

Regional Variations and Features

This dish is particularly popular in the United States, especially in regions where slow cookers are a staple in home kitchens. In the South and Midwest, the recipe often uses a mix of chicken thighs and breasts for a juicier texture, while West Coast versions may incorporate artisan bread and homemade Caesar dressing for a fresher flavor. Some variations even include sun-dried tomatoes or roasted garlic to add depth, demonstrating how local tastes influence the dishs preparation.

Distinctive Qualities Compared to Similar Dishes

Unlike a traditional chicken salad sandwich, which is usually mixed with mayonnaise and sometimes celery or grapes, the Slow Cooker Chicken Caesar Sandwich relies on creamy Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese to provide its signature flavor. The slow-cooked chicken becomes tender and infused with seasoning, differentiating it from grilled or roasted chicken sandwiches. This results in a richer, more cohesive filling, while the shredded lettuce adds a crisp freshness reminiscent of the original salad.

Typical Occasions and Serving Styles

These sandwiches are commonly served at casual family dinners, potlucks, and weekend gatherings where convenience and taste are equally valued. They are also popular at lunch counters and cafes offering American comfort foods. While they can be enjoyed hot directly from the slow cooker, they pair exceptionally well with a side of roasted vegetables, fries, or a light soup, making them versatile for both casual and semi-formal meals.

Interesting Facts and Culinary Insights

One fascinating aspect of this dish is how it bridges traditional salad culture with modern slow-cooking techniques. Using a slow cooker not only tenderizes the chicken but also allows the flavors of the Caesar dressing and Parmesan to meld deeply into the meat. Additionally, the recipes simplicity has made it a favorite for busy cooks who want a gourmet-tasting meal without complex preparation. Another interesting note is that despite its American adaptation, the sandwich still honors the classic Caesar salads balance of creamy, salty, and fresh flavors, illustrating how culinary traditions can evolve while retaining their essence.

FAQ about Slow Cooker Chicken Caesar Sandwiches Recipe

Comments