Looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal that combines tender chicken, zesty marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese? These Cheesy Marinara Chicken Sandwiches are a simple yet delicious recipe perfect for weeknights or gatherings. Made with just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is bound to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Only six pantry staples needed!
- Effortless Preparation: The slow cooker does most of the work.
- Flavor Explosion: A perfect balance of cheesy, garlicky, and savory flavors.
- Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters will love it.
Cheesy Marinara Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need
To serve 4-6 sandwiches, gather the following:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (use your favorite brand)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 sub rolls (buttery and soft, ideal for sandwiches)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for the rolls)
- 6 slices mozzarella or provolone cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the minced garlic on top, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with seasoning. Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, fully submerging it.
2. Cook the Chicken
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
3. Shred the Chicken
Using two forks or a hand mixer, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it blend with the sauce for an extra cheesy kick.
4. Prepare the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Split the sub rolls open lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. Spread melted butter on the cut sides of the rolls, then sprinkle with garlic powder and a pinch of salt. Arrange the rolls on a baking sheet, cut side up.
5. Toast the Rolls
Bake the rolls in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until they are lightly toasted and golden.
6. Assemble the Sandwiches
Spoon a generous portion of the shredded chicken mixture onto each toasted roll. Top each with a slice of mozzarella or provolone cheese. Return the sandwiches to the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the sandwiches from the oven and serve hot. Pair with a crisp side salad or potato chips for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Marinara Chicken Sandwiches
- Choose Quality Marinara: A good marinara sauce makes all the difference. Opt for a flavorful, robust brand or a homemade version.
- Cheese Options: If you’re out of mozzarella, try provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp cheddar for a unique twist.
- Bread Selection: Sub rolls work best, but you can substitute with hoagie rolls, ciabatta, or even hamburger buns.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make extra chicken, freeze it in airtight containers, and defrost for future meals.
- Add Toppings: Fresh basil, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the flavor.
Nutrition Information (Per Sandwich)
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Sodium: 980mg
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works well. Just skip the slow cooker step and simmer the chicken with marinara sauce on the stovetop for about 10 minutes.
2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warm.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free rolls or bread to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
4. Can I add vegetables to the sandwich?
Yes! Sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms make great additions to this recipe.
These Cheesy Marinara Chicken Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food—perfectly seasoned chicken, rich marinara, and melty cheese all piled onto buttery toasted rolls. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or preparing a quick family dinner, this recipe delivers on flavor and simplicity. Try it tonight and see why it’s a guaranteed hit!
