Slow Cooker Chicken Reuben for an Easy Weeknight Dinner Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To add a bit of texture to the final dish, you can serve the chicken over a slice of toasted rye bread. This mimics the traditional Reuben sandwich experience while adding a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender, braised chicken. Simply toast the bread until it is golden brown and place the chicken breast directly on top, allowing the juices and dressing to soak into the rye for an even deeper flavor experience.

If you find the sauce is too thin after cooking, you can remove the chicken and thicken the remaining liquid in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water, then simmer until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

This simple step can turn the juices into a rich, velvety gravy that enhances the overall presentation and mouthfeel of the dish when poured back over the chicken.

Variations

• Spicy Reuben Chicken: Add a tablespoon of hot sauce or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing before layering. This provides a subtle heat that cuts through the richness of the cheese and dressing, offering a modern twist on the classic flavor profile.
• Cheesy Reuben Casserole: Shred the cooked chicken into the sauce and mix it thoroughly. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with extra shredded Swiss cheese, and broil for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly for a different texture.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container.

Reheat

Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered saucepan over low heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Allow any leftovers to cool completely at room temperature for no longer than two hours before transferring them to an airtight container. Storing the chicken in its sauce helps keep the meat moist while it is in the refrigerator.

Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent the strong aroma of the sauerkraut from permeating other items in your fridge. Proper storage will keep the dish safe and flavorful for up to three days when kept at a consistent temperature.

While this dish is best served fresh, you can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert a few hours before you plan to cook it. Keep the insert covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to start. If you do this, add about 30 minutes to the total cooking time to account for the cold start. This makes it an excellent option for busy days when you want to prepare dinner in the morning and have it ready by evening.

Serving ideas

Serve the chicken breasts hot, ensuring each portion is topped with a generous amount of the sauerkraut, dressing, and melted cheese mixture from the slow cooker.

The sauce that gathers at the bottom of the cooker is packed with flavor, so be sure to drizzle it over the chicken right before serving. A side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans or a crisp green salad, provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the Reuben-style topping.

For a more substantial meal, consider serving the chicken alongside roasted potatoes or a simple grain salad. The acidity of the sauerkraut pairs well with earthy sides, helping to cleanse the palate between bites.

If you have extra dressing, keep it in a small bowl on the side for those who prefer an even creamier experience. Ensure the chicken rests for at least 5 minutes before slicing into it to keep the meat as juicy as possible for your guests.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Chicken Reuben for an Easy Weeknight Dinner

Prep 5 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 10 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup drained sauerkraut with caraway seeds
• 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
• 4 slices Swiss cheese

Instructions

1. Place the raw boneless skinless chicken breasts in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Ensure they are arranged flat to allow for uniform cooking throughout the process.
2. Spread the drained sauerkraut evenly over the top of the chicken. Pour the Thousand Island dressing over the sauerkraut, using a spoon to distribute it so it covers the surface. Place the Swiss cheese slices on top of the dressing layer.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving with the sauce and melted cheese.

Contains: eggs, milk, fish

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

380

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

8 g

Fat

22 g

Fiber

2 g

Sugar

4 g

Sodium

950 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.