Easy Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches Recipe

Ohio shredded chicken sandwiches are a beloved Midwest classic, known for their tender, flavorful chicken and tangy sauce. These sandwiches are perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game-day gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees delicious results.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the best Ohio shredded chicken sandwiches, including variations, tips, and serving suggestions.

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before you start, make sure you have the following equipment:

• Slow cooker or Instant Pot (for easy shredding)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fork or meat shredder
• Saucepan (if making homemade sauce)
• Tongs or a slotted spoon

What Do You Need to Prepare Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches?

Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• ½ cup hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

For Serving:

• 6 hamburger buns
• Coleslaw (optional)
• Pickles (optional)
• Sliced cheese (optional)

How to Make Easy Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches Step-by-Step ?

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker or Instant Pot.
2. Add chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-7 hours in a slow cooker or on high pressure for 15 minutes in an Instant Pot.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

1. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker or Instant Pot and place it in a large bowl.
2. Use two forks or a meat shredder to shred the chicken into small pieces.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a saucepan, combine barbecue sauce, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes).

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Add the shredded chicken to the saucepan and stir until the chicken is fully coated with the sauce.
2. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Toast the hamburger buns lightly for extra flavor.
2. Place a generous amount of shredded chicken on the bottom half of each bun.
3. Top with coleslaw, pickles, or sliced cheese if desired.
4. Cover with the top half of the bun and serve immediately.

Variations

1. Spicy Version: Add extra hot sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
2. Sweet and Tangy: Use a sweeter barbecue sauce and add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the sauce mixture.
3. Creamy Twist: Mix in a tablespoon of mayonnaise or ranch dressing for a creamier texture.
4. Low-Carb Option: Serve the shredded chicken in lettuce wraps instead of buns.

Cooking Note

Ohio shredded chicken sandwiches are incredibly versatile. The key to perfect sandwiches lies in the balance of flavors tangy, sweet, and spicy. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken and skip the cooking step. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the sandwiches with a side of crispy fries or onion rings.
• Serve with a fresh green salad or corn on the cob for a complete meal.
• Add a dollop of coleslaw on top of the chicken for a crunchy texture.

Helpful Tips

1. Use Chicken Thighs: For extra juiciness, use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
2. Make Ahead: Prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Reheat before serving.
3. Double the Recipe: This recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd, so feel free to double or triple the ingredients.
4. Toast the Buns: Lightly toasting the buns prevents them from getting soggy.

Tips for the Best Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches

• Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for at least 10 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
• Adjust the hot sauce to suit your spice preference.
• For a smokier flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.

Similar recipes:

• Grilled Chicken Club Sandwich Recipe
• Easy Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage Gravy Recipe
• Easy Cheeseburger Macaroni Casserole Recipe
• Easy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Sauce Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours in the slow cooker.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free buns and ensure the barbecue sauce and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Ohio shredded chicken sandwiches are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a quick family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. With its tender chicken, tangy sauce, and endless customization options, it’s no wonder this dish is a Midwest favorite. Try it today and enjoy the delicious taste of Ohio in your own kitchen!

Print