Slow-Cooker Shredded Chicken Caesar Sandwiches
Tender, juicy chicken thighs slow-cooked in Caesar dressing and chicken broth, then shredded and tossed with additional dressing for rich, savory flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, these sandwiches offer all the classic Caesar taste in an easy handheld format. The slow cooking process ensures incredibly moist chicken while infusing every bite with creamy, garlicky Caesar goodness. Serve on kaiser rolls with crisp Bibb lettuce and fresh basil.
Ingredients
- 1 package (28 oz) boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup Progresso reduced-sodium chicken broth, from 32-oz carton
- 2 cups Caesar dressingranch dressing1:1flavor change
completely different taste profile
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 6 kaiser rolls or burger bunsciabatta rolls1:1texture
sturdier bread option
- 6 Bibb lettuce leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped(optional)
Instructions
- 1
Spray slow cooker with cooking spray
- 2
Mix chicken thighs, chicken broth and 1 cup Caesar dressing in slow cooker
- 3
Cover and cook on Low heat setting 5 1/2 to 6 hours or High heat setting 3 to 4 hours until chicken shreds easily
- 4
Transfer chicken to cutting board and shred with 2 forks
- 5
Drain remaining liquid from slow cooker
- 6
Return shredded chicken to slow cooker with remaining 1 cup Caesar dressing and pepper
- 7
Cover and cook on High heat setting about 30 minutes until mixture is hot
- 8
Spoon chicken mixture onto bottom halves of rolls
- 9
Top each with lettuce leaf and basil if desired, then add roll tops
Tips
For extra flavor, use rotisserie chicken seasoning on thighs before cooking
Toast the kaiser rolls lightly for added texture and to prevent sogginess
Make freezer meal by combining chicken, broth and 1 cup dressing in freezer bag
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in airtight container
Chicken mixture can be made 1 day ahead and reheated before serving
Serve immediately while chicken mixture is hot for best texture
Common Mistakes
Don't skip draining liquid to avoid soggy sandwiches
Use two forks to shred chicken properly for best texture
Substitutions
sturdier bread option
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but reduce cooking time as breasts cook faster and can become dry. Check for doneness at 4-5 hours on low.
How long will the chicken mixture keep?
Store in refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months in airtight containers.
Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Yes, simmer chicken in covered pot on stovetop for 45-60 minutes until tender, then shred and mix with dressing.