Warmed Chicken Sandwiches – Crock Pot or Oven!
Introduction:
These Warmed Chicken Sandwiches are the epitome of comfort food, blending tender chicken with aromatic vegetables, all seasoned to perfection and served between soft rolls. Whether you opt for the convenience of a slow cooker or the traditional charm of the oven, this recipe promises a delightful meal that’s perfect for lunch or a snack. Let’s dive into the details and unleash the flavors!
Recipe Overview:
- Name: Warmed Chicken Sandwiches – Crock Pot or Oven!
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Varies
- Category: Lunch/Snacks
- Keywords: Chicken, Poultry, Meat, Healthy, Weeknight, Oven, Easy
Ingredients:
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups diced celery
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf (for added flavor)
- Chicken breasts or thighs (quantity as desired)
Instructions:
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Preparation: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you’re opting for the oven method. If using a slow cooker, no preheating is necessary.
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Mixing Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, diced celery, finely chopped onions, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
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Preparing Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a baking dish or slow cooker. Pour the prepared mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated. If using a slow cooker, arrange the chicken in a single layer for even cooking.
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Cooking Options:
- Oven Method: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. You can check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken; it should register at least 165°F (75°C).
- Slow Cooker Method: Alternatively, if using a slow cooker, set it to low heat and let the chicken cook for several hours until tender and fully cooked. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender and succulent chicken.
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Assembling Sandwiches: Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven or slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Discard the bay leaf from the mixture.
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Serving: To serve, spoon the warm chicken mixture onto soft rolls or buns of your choice. The aromatic blend of chicken, celery, and onions nestled between the soft bread will surely tantalize your taste buds.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 218.1
- Fat: 6.4g
- Saturated Fat: 1.7g
- Cholesterol: 42.4mg
- Sodium: 485.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 21.5g
- Fiber: 0.8g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 17.4g
Tips and Variations:
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the warm chicken mixture before serving for a gooey, cheesy delight.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is excellent for meal prepping. Prepare a large batch and store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for quick and easy meals throughout the week.
Conclusion:
With its simplicity, versatility, and incredible flavor, this Warmed Chicken Sandwiches recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you choose the convenience of the slow cooker or the classic appeal of the oven, the result is a mouthwatering dish that will satisfy your cravings every time. So gather your ingredients, set your cooking method of choice, and get ready to indulge in a wholesome and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion!