Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich. Growing up, this recipe was a staple at every potluck, church gathering, and family picnic I attended. It’s one of those comforting Midwest classics that’s both humble and satisfying. Over the years, I’ve made this sandwich countless times in my kitchen, and it never fails to bring a smile to anyone who takes a bite. I love how simple the ingredients are—yet together, they create a rich, creamy, and flavorful chicken filling that’s perfect for piling high onto a soft bun.

What makes this recipe truly special is the combination of convenience and flavor. The chicken is slow-cooked or simmered until it’s tender enough to fall apart with a fork, then mixed with a creamy sauce that binds it all together. Some families add a bit of crushed crackers for extra texture, while others keep it smooth and silky. Personally, I love mine creamy with just the right amount of seasoning to enhance the chicken without overpowering it.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This sandwich is not only a breeze to make, but it’s also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a large crowd or just prepping lunch for the week, the Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich delivers every single time. You’ll love how the chicken becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, how the creaminess coats every shred just right, and how the flavors blend together into something that tastes far more indulgent than the ingredient list would suggest.

Versatile

One of the reasons I return to this recipe again and again is its versatility. Serve it warm on classic burger buns, use sliders for a party-friendly version, or even stuff the filling into wraps or over baked potatoes for something a little different. You can customize the flavors, add your favorite seasoning blends, or mix in chopped vegetables for extra texture. It’s endlessly adaptable to your taste.

Affordable

Another reason this recipe is a winner? It’s budget-friendly. Made with pantry staples and a few simple ingredients, it’s perfect when you need to make something filling without breaking the bank. A few chicken breasts, some cream-based ingredients, and buns—and you’ve got a delicious, hearty meal.

Ingredients for the Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic Ohio-style sandwich:

• 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup

• 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• Salt to taste

• 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers (optional, for thickening)

• 6 sandwich buns or rolls (soft, hamburger-style)

How to Prepare This Recipe

Making an Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich couldn’t be easier. It’s one of those recipes that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a gathering, or preparing meals ahead of time, this recipe fits perfectly into any routine. The best part? It uses basic ingredients and comes together quickly, especially if you’re using a slow cooker or pressure cooker.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large saucepan or slow cooker. If you’re using frozen chicken, make sure it’s fully thawed. Pat each piece dry and season lightly with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. A pinch of salt enhances the base flavor, so don’t skip it.

Step 2: Add the Liquid Ingredients
Pour in the chicken broth. This helps to keep the chicken moist during cooking and infuses it with flavor. Next, add the condensed cream of chicken soup. This forms the creamy base of the sandwich filling. You don’t need to add any water to the soup—just pour it straight from the can.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
If using a slow cooker, cover and cook on low for about 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. If you prefer the stovetop, cover the saucepan with a lid and simmer gently on low heat for around 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. You’ll know it’s ready when it easily shreds with a fork.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and place it on a large cutting board or in a mixing bowl. Using two forks, shred it thoroughly. You want fine, even pieces so the filling spreads smoothly onto the buns. Return the shredded chicken to the pot or slow cooker and stir it back into the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Thicken the Filling (Optional)
At this point, check the texture. If it’s too thin, stir in crushed buttery crackers a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid. The mixture should be creamy and scoopable, not watery.

Step 6: Warm and Serve
Keep the chicken mixture warm until you’re ready to serve. Spoon generous portions onto soft sandwich buns or rolls. Serve the sandwiches warm for the best flavor and texture.

Quick and Easy

You don’t need any fancy equipment or special techniques to make this recipe. If you own a slow cooker, you can set it in the morning and return to a ready-to-eat dinner. If you prefer the stovetop, everything comes together in under an hour. Either way, cleanup is minimal, and the process is completely stress-free. It’s a great option for weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something filling but low effort.

Customizable

This recipe is highly adaptable. You can swap in chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or use turkey bacon bits for added smoky notes. If you prefer a bit of crunch, try mixing in chopped celery or bell peppers after shredding the chicken. Some people enjoy adding a little cheddar cheese for a melty twist. Others prefer a slight tang and include a splash of mustard or a dollop of plain yogurt. Whatever your taste preferences are, you can tailor this sandwich to suit them.

You can also adjust the consistency based on how you like it. Some prefer a thicker filling that holds its shape on the bun, while others enjoy it more saucy and rich. The key is to balance the ingredients so that every bite is flavorful and satisfying.

Popular with Many People

This sandwich is more than just a regional favorite—it’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Kids love it for its creamy texture and mild flavor. Adults appreciate its heartiness and how it pairs well with a variety of sides like coleslaw, potato chips, or pickles. At potlucks, it disappears quickly. At home, it earns regular requests. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—simple, filling, and made with love.

This is why the Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich has stood the test of time. Whether you grew up eating it or are trying it for the first time, it has a way of making people feel at home. Once you prepare it yourself, it’ll likely become a go-to recipe in your kitchen too.

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FAQs

Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use canned chicken if you’re short on time. Be sure to drain it well before mixing it with the cream of chicken soup. However, using fresh chicken provides better texture and flavor.

Can I freeze the shredded chicken filling?
Absolutely. Let the filling cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It keeps well for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What type of buns work best?
Soft sandwich buns, brioche rolls, or hamburger buns are all excellent options. Choose rolls that can hold the creamy filling without falling apart.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this is a perfect make-ahead recipe. You can cook and shred the chicken a day in advance, then reheat it just before serving.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free version or make your own using non-dairy milk and chicken broth thickened with flour or starch.