If you have a soft spot for warm, comforting sandwiches that are packed with flavor and simplicity, then you are going to love this Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of tender, slow-cooked chicken mixed with a creamy, slightly crispy filling that makes every bite a cozy celebration of Midwestern cooking. Whether you’re after a weeknight meal that comes together mostly on its own or a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings, this recipe brings that nostalgic, homey taste that never goes out of style.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches Recipe uses straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a rich and satisfying texture and flavor. Each element enhances the dish, from the savory chicken broth bringing depth to the creamy soup and buttery crackers adding just the right crunch.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender base that shreds perfectly after slow cooking for juicy sandwiches.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup: Adds a creamy richness that keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Provides subtle seasoning and helps blend the flavors beautifully.
- 1 sleeve buttery round crackers (like Ritz), crushed: Gives a delightful texture and thickens the filling into that classic creamy consistency.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory warmth and a touch of depth.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Layers in gentle sweetness and complexity of flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Delivers just enough spice to brighten the mix without overpowering.
- 6 sandwich buns or hamburger rolls: Perfect for holding all the delicious shredded chicken filling.
- Optional: sliced pickles or cheese for serving: A fun addition to customize flavor and add a bit of tang or creaminess.
How to Make Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Set Up the Slow Cooker
Begin by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the slow cooker. This slow, gentle cooking method will ensure the chicken becomes incredibly tender and easy to shred. It’s the heart of this recipe’s effortless charm.
Step 2: Add the Creamy Ingredients and Seasonings
Next, pour in the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper right on top. These spices are subtle but crucial for creating that distinct, comforting flavor profile you want in your sandwiches.
Step 3: Cook Until Tender
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. As the chicken cooks, it absorbs all those lovely flavors and becomes fall-apart tender—just the way a shredded chicken sandwich should be.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken and Create the Filling
Once the chicken is cooked through, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. This soaking wet chicken will then be stirred with the crushed crackers, which gradually thicken the mixture into a creamy, spreadable filling that clings perfectly to your buns.
Step 5: Let It Rest and Thicken
Allow the mixture to sit on the warm setting for 10 to 15 minutes so the crackers have time to absorb the liquid fully. This resting step is where the magic happens, transforming the texture into the familiar creamy yet slightly textured filling that makes this Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches Recipe so memorable.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Spoon the steaming shredded chicken mixture generously onto your sandwich buns. Add your favorite optional extras like sliced pickles or a slice of melted cheese, then enjoy warm for the ultimate comfort food experience.
How to Serve Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like sliced pickles add a bright, tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy chicken filling. If you love cheese, adding a slice of cheddar or your favorite melting cheese can ramp up the richness and make each bite even more indulgent.
Side Dishes
Pair these sandwiches with classic sides like crunchy coleslaw, kettle-cooked chips, or creamy potato salad. These traditional sides perfectly complement the sandwich’s textures and flavors while keeping the whole meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try turning this recipe into sliders for a fun party appetizer or pile the shredded chicken on toasted bread for an open-faced version. You can even use the filling as a dip for veggies or crackers for a creative twist that’s still true to the spirit of the Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, place the shredded chicken mixture in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy another quick meal without a fuss.
Freezing
This shredded chicken mixture freezes beautifully. Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving some room for expansion. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to maintain that creamy texture and fresh flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken filling gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If it feels too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to bring it back to the perfect consistency that hugs your sandwich buns just right.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and moisture. Just make sure they are boneless and skinless, and adjust cooking times slightly if needed for the best shredding texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out the buttery round crackers for a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free sandwich buns. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
You can simmer the chicken breasts in a covered pot on the stovetop with the soup, broth, and spices until tender, which usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Then proceed with shredding and mixing in the crackers as directed.
What can I add to make the filling creamier?
A splash of milk or a handful of shredded cheese stirred in after shredding can add extra creaminess and richness if you prefer a softer, more luscious texture.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe is very mild and family-friendly, with just a hint of black pepper for a subtle warmth. You can adjust the seasoning to suit your taste by adding a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce if you want more kick.
Final Thoughts
This Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches Recipe is one of those dishes that once you try, you’ll want to make it again and again. It’s comforting, ridiculously easy, and packed with that nostalgic, creamy texture that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. Trust me, whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a friendly gathering, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to share.
Print
Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 sandwiches
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Midwestern, American
Description
A comforting and creamy shredded chicken sandwich recipe from Ohio, made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Tender chicken breasts are cooked with cream of chicken soup and spices, then mixed with buttery crushed crackers for a rich, satisfying filling perfect for sandwiches.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 sleeve buttery round crackers (like Ritz), crushed
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Assembly
- 6 sandwich buns or hamburger rolls
- Optional: sliced pickles or cheese for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Add the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper, spreading the ingredients evenly over the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreds easily when pulled apart with forks.
- Shred the Chicken: Once fully cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir the shredded chicken to mix it with the cooking liquid.
- Add the Crackers: Stir in the crushed buttery round crackers until the mixture thickens and develops a creamy, thick consistency resembling a sandwich filling.
- Let It Rest: Keep the slow cooker on the warm setting and let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the crackers to fully absorb the liquid, creating the classic creamy texture.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spoon the warm shredded chicken mixture onto sandwich buns or hamburger rolls. Add optional sliced pickles or cheese if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- To achieve a thicker filling, reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly or add more crushed crackers.
- Some variations include adding shredded cheese or a splash of milk for extra creaminess.
- These sandwiches pair wonderfully with chips or a side of coleslaw for a complete meal.
