As I watched the sun set over the Midwestern horizon one evening, the familiar aroma of dinner wafted through my kitchen, reminding me of countless gatherings with family and friends. The star of the show? The Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich, a creamy and delightful crowd-pleaser that transforms any meal into a comforting experience. This recipe shines with its versatility; it can be effortlessly prepared in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or stovetop, making it perfect for busy evenings or lively parties. Plus, its creamy texture paired with the crunch of buttery crackers makes it utterly irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply craving a cozy homemade meal, these sandwiches deliver all the warmth of Midwest comfort food. Are you ready to dive into this delicious creation?
Why is this sandwich a must-try?
Versatile Preparation: No matter your cooking style, this Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich adapts perfectly to your kitchen setup with options for slow cooker, Instant Pot, or stovetop.
Creamy Indulgence: The rich combination of condensed soup and soft, shredded chicken creates a creamy bliss that everyone loves.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for parties or family dinners, this recipe is a hit that brings people together over delicious comfort food. Serve it up with classic potato chips for an unforgettable experience!
Simple Ingredients: With minimal effort and common pantry staples, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready in no time.
Customizable Fun: Add your twist with different soups or toppings, making every batch uniquely yours while still keeping that delicious Midwest comfort.
Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich Ingredients
• Dive into this creamy delight!
For the Chicken Mixture
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast – This is the main protein source that provides heartiness; consider using leftover turkey for a quicker prep.
- Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup – Adds a delicious creaminess and rich depth; you can swap it for cream of mushroom or celery for a twist.
- Chicken Stock – Enhances flavor and moisture; low-sodium options are great for those watching salt levels.
For Thickeners
- Crushed Ritz Butter Crackers – Thickens the mixture while adding buttery goodness; substitute with crushed potato chips for a different flavor experience.
For Seasoning
- Dried Parsley – Adds a hint of fresh herbal flavor.
- Garlic Powder – Elevates the dish with a savory note.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Provides a mild spice; adjust to your desired taste.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors; be mindful as other ingredients may contain salt as well.
Enjoy this scrumptious Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich at your next gathering and savor the Midwest comfort it brings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken in the Instant Pot
Start by placing the boneless skinless chicken breasts in your Instant Pot. Pour in the chicken stock and the condensed cream of chicken soup, ensuring everything is well combined. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, manually release the steam, making sure to keep your hands away from the vent for safety.
Step 2: Shred and Mix Ingredients
Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks until it is finely pulled apart. Return the shredded chicken to the Instant Pot, mixing in the crushed Ritz butter crackers, dried parsley, garlic powder, and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust the consistency by adding additional stock or crackers for creaminess. Let the mixture sit for 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Slow Cooker Method
For a slow cooker option, combine the chicken breasts, chicken stock, and cream of chicken soup directly in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours. After the time is up, shred the chicken as before and mix in the crackers, garlic powder, and seasonings. Cook for an additional 30 minutes for a deliciously creamy consistency.
Step 4: Stovetop Alternative
If you prefer cooking on the stovetop, start by combining the soup, chicken stock, and seasoning in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once heated through, add shredded chicken and the crushed crackers, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens to your desired creaminess. This Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich filling should be hearty and satisfying, perfect for slathering on soft buns.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
Now that the filling is ready, toast your favorite soft buns for a delightful crunch. Generously spoon the creamy chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun, ensuring a satisfying mound of flavor. Top with the other half of the bun, and optionally add a slice of cheese or crispy lettuce for extra taste and texture, turning this Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich into a meal that’s both hearty and comforting.
How to Store and Freeze Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the creamy filling fresh and delicious for your next meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the filling in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bags for easy identification later.
Thawing: Thaw frozen Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich filling in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This helps maintain the creamy texture.
Reheating: To reheat, place the filling in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich
- Perfect Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breast for a tender base. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut if you’re pressed for time!
- Thickening Tip: Adjust the consistency of your sandwich filling by adding more crushed Ritz crackers or chicken stock until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Flavor Boost: Sauté some onions or celery before adding them to the mixture for an extra layer of deliciousness in your Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich.
- Watch the Salt: Be mindful of added salt, especially when using chicken stock and crackers, to keep the dish balanced for everyone to enjoy.
- Freezing Leftovers: Make a double batch and freeze in portions for up to three months, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
What to Serve with Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich
Create a comforting feast that elevates your meal from delightful to unforgettable.
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Classic Potato Chips: The salty crunch of chips contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sandwich, adding a satisfying texture to every bite.
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Coleslaw: A fresh, tangy slaw pairs beautifully, providing a refreshing crunch that balances the sandwich’s rich flavors. The vegetables bring a welcome brightness that complements the creamy chicken.
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Pickles and Olives: Serve a side of crunchy dill pickles or marinated olives for a zesty bite. Their acidity cuts through the creaminess and adds fun flavor layers.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn enhances the Midwest theme of your meal. Its sweetness and warmth meld perfectly, creating a comforting evocation of summer.
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Baked Beans: The smoky sweetness of baked beans adds depth to your plate, complementing the savory chicken effortlessly. This pairing brings a touch of BBQ nostalgia to any gathering.
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Cheesy Garlic Bread: Indulge in gooey, warm garlic bread as the perfect accompaniment. Its buttery flavor ties the meal together, inviting everyone to savor each mouthful.
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Dessert – Apple Pie: Conclude your meal with a slice of warm apple pie. The sweet, spiced fruit filling pairs harmoniously with the savory richness of the sandwich, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich Variations
Feel free to explore these tasty twists on the classic Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich, making it truly your own!
- Turkey Swap: Use leftover turkey instead of chicken for a delightful Thanksgiving twist. It’s a great way to enjoy holiday flavors long after the feast.
- Cream of Celery: Try swapping the cream of chicken soup with cream of celery for a refreshing flavor change that pairs wonderfully with chicken.
- Cheesy Delight: Add a slice of your favorite cheese on top just before closing the bun for a melty, gooey enhancement that elevates every bite!
- Veggie Boost: Mix in some finely diced onions or celery for extra crunch and flavor; it’s an easy way to add nutrition without sacrificing taste.
- Spicy Kick: For some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture for a zesty surprise that will wake up your taste buds.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use nut cream or dairy-free soup alternatives to make this sandwich lactose-free while still keeping it rich and creamy.
- BBQ Infusion: Stir in some barbecue sauce along with the other ingredients for a smoky, sweet twist that will take your sandwich to the next level.
- Bistro Style: Serve on a toasted baguette with fresh arugula and sliced tomatoes for a gourmet feel that transforms this comfort dish into a wholesome lunch option.
These variations make it easy to serve something new and exciting, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in. If you’re looking for more chicken recipes, check out this scrumptious Chicken Avocado Melt or the hearty Rosemary Chicken Meatballs for a change of pace!
Make Ahead Options
These Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights so much easier! You can prepare the creamy chicken mixture up to 24 hours in advance by cooking it as directed, then allowing it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the delicious texture, add the crushed Ritz crackers only when you’re ready to serve, as they can become soggy if added too early. When it’s time to enjoy, simply reheat the chicken mixture over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stir in the crackers, and then pile it high on toasted buns for the ultimate comforting meal!
Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this sandwich?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for a tender filling. You can also use leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
How should I store leftovers?
For any leftover Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich filling, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and delicious for your next meal!
Can I freeze the sandwich filling?
Certainly! Freeze the filling in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bags with the date for easy identification when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen filling?
Thaw the frozen filling in the refrigerator overnight, which helps maintain its creamy texture. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Yes! If anyone has allergies, be cautious with the use of condensed soups and crackers that may contain gluten or dairy. You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a gluten-free option and use gluten-free crackers to accommodate those preferences.
What if the mixture is too thick?
Very! If you find the Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich filling is too thick, simply stir in more chicken stock or crushed crackers until you reach your desired creaminess. Adjusting the consistency is key to achieving that perfect texture!
Creamy Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich for Epic Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Chicken in the Instant Pot: Place chicken breasts in the Instant Pot, pour in chicken stock and cream of chicken soup, combine well. Seal and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then manually release steam.
- Shred and Mix Ingredients: Remove chicken, shred with two forks, return to pot, mix in crackers, dried parsley, garlic powder, and black pepper. Let sit for 20 minutes.
- Slow Cooker Method: Combine chicken breasts, stock, and soup in slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours. Shred chicken, mix in crackers and seasonings, cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Stovetop Alternative: Combine soup, stock, and seasonings in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add shredded chicken and crushed crackers, stirring until thickened.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Toast buns, spoon creamy chicken mixture onto the bottom half, top with other half, and optionally add cheese or lettuce.
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