Ohio shredded chicken sandwiches are like a warm hug on a plate. With tender, flavorful chicken drenched in barbecue sauce, these sandwiches bring a comforting vibe that’s perfect for any casual gathering or family meal. Imagine the incredibly inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen as it simmers away in the slow cooker, filling your home with an inviting scent that makes everyone’s mouth water in anticipation. This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also fills your soul with the kind of warmth and comfort that can only come from a home-cooked meal. Ohio shredded chicken sandwiches have a special place in the hearts of many, served up with love, making them a staple in gatherings, celebrations, or just an easy weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Ohio shredded chicken sandwich recipe stands out for many reasons:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of barbecue sauce with the subtle spices creates a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite.
- Effortless Cooking: Just toss everything into a slow cooker and let it do the work for you — there’s minimal fuss involved.
- Versatile Toppings: Whether you prefer a tangy coleslaw or just a simple dash of extra BBQ sauce, you can customize your sandwich just the way you like it.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This dish keeps well, so you can enjoy delicious meals throughout the week without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to adults loves the tender chicken and juicy flavors, making it a hit for any occasion.
How to Make Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches
Making Ohio shredded chicken sandwiches is a straightforward process that’s packed with flavor. First things first, gather your ingredients to ensure everything is ready to go. You will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chicken broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Don’t forget the hamburger buns and optional coleslaw for topping!
Once you’ve got everything assembled, toss the chicken breasts into the slow cooker along with the chicken broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything evenly.
Next, set your slow cooker to a low setting and let it work its magic for about 6 to 8 hours. As it cooks, you’ll notice the kitchen filling up with the comforting scent of savory spices and tangy barbecue sauce — this is when it starts to smell amazing! You want to cook the chicken until it’s tender, making it easy to shred.
After the cooking time is up, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken right in your bowl, or do this in the slow cooker to keep those flavors intact. Don’t worry if it looks thick at this point — it’ll smooth out as you combine it with the sauce left in the cooker. Simply return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, giving it a good mix so every piece is coated in that wonderful sauce you created.
Finally, serve the hot, shredded chicken on soft hamburger buns, making sure to pile it on generously. If you like a bit of crunch, top it with coleslaw for a delightful contrast in texture.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
Each ingredient serves an important role in the overall dish. The chicken breasts are the star, providing a tender and juicy base that will soak up all those wonderful flavors. The chicken broth adds moisture, ensuring the chicken cooks beautifully without drying out. Barbecue sauce is where the magic happens, infusing the dish with that classic sweet and tangy flavor profile that everyone loves.
Worcestershire sauce lends a deeper umami flavor, making the dish even more savory. The garlic powder and onion powder enhance the overall aromatic experience, contributing to that fantastic smell wafting from the kitchen. Salt and pepper are essential for balance, helping to bring out all the flavors. The hamburger buns provide the perfect vessel for your tender chicken, and adding coleslaw is optional but adds a refreshing crunch that beautifully complements the savory chicken.
Directions
To get started on your Ohio shredded chicken sandwiches, begin by placing your chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Add in a cup of chicken broth to keep everything nice and juicy, then pour in a cup of your favorite barbecue sauce. Next, drizzle that tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce on top and sprinkle the garlic powder and onion powder across the mixture. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
Once everything is thrown together, you can set your slow cooker on low for about 6 to 8 hours. As the hours pass, patience pays off; the kitchen will slowly fill with a mouthwatering aroma that is sure to have everyone gathering around.
When the chicken is cooked through and beautifully tender, it’s time to shred. Carefully remove the chicken breasts and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces — you’ll notice how easily it falls apart. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it back into the delicious sauce that’s developed, ensuring every piece gets coated.
To serve, simply scoop a generous portion of the shredded chicken onto soft hamburger buns. For an added crunch, top it with coleslaw if you like, adding both flavor and texture to your sandwich.
How to Serve Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches
Ohio shredded chicken sandwiches are incredibly versatile and perfect for various occasions. You can serve them at a backyard barbecue, during game day, or even at a cozy family dinner. Their inviting appearance, with the gleaming shredded chicken piled high on a bun, makes them visually appealing as well.
Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for color. Pair them with sides like potato salad, baked beans, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal. They also work wonderfully as a comforting lunch option, providing an uplifting balance of protein and flavor.
How to Store Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches
If you find yourself with any leftovers (which is sometimes a big “if”!), there are great ways to store them. Allow the shredded chicken to cool before placing it in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the shredded chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container or bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven for a crisp edge or warm it up in the microwave for a quick meal.
Tips for Perfect Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches
To ensure that your Ohio shredded chicken sandwiches turn out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips:
- Choose Good Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best results. Organic or free-range options generally have better flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: While it might be tempting to increase the heat to speed things along, slow cooking allows the flavors to develop and the chicken to become tender. Stick to the low setting for best results.
- Adjust Your Sauce: If you love a particular flavor in barbecue sauce, feel free to experiment. Some sauces are sweeter or smokier, and you can even combine different ones to find your perfect mix.
- Season Carefully: When adding salt and pepper, start with a little and taste before adding more. You can always adjust seasoning but can’t take it out once it’s in!
- Serving Suggestions: Don’t hesitate to try out different toppings. Pickled jalapeños, avocado, or even a sprinkle of cheese can elevate your sandwich experience.
Variations
There are numerous ways to put a fun spin on this Ohio shredded chicken sandwich recipe:
- Spicy Twist: If you love heat, consider mixing in some hot sauce with your barbecue sauce or topping the finished sandwich with sliced jalapeños for that perfect kick.
- BBQ Pulled Pork Instead: Swap the chicken for pork shoulder for a delightful twist around this recipe that yields the same tender, flavorful result. Just follow the same cooking instructions.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this meal gluten-free, serve the shredded chicken on gluten-free buns or try it wrapped in lettuce leaves for a lighter option.
- Slow Cooker Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian-friendly version, substitute the chicken with shredded jackfruit. Use similar seasonings and follow the same cooking process for a delicious meat-free alternative.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can place frozen chicken breasts directly into the slow cooker, but be sure to extend your cooking time by an hour or two to ensure they are fully cooked through.
What’s the best barbecue sauce to use?
This is entirely subjective and depends on your taste preferences! Some like sweet and tangy sauces, while others enjoy a smoky or spicy flavor. Experiment with different brands to find your favorite!
Is it possible to cook this on the stovetop?
Yes, you can cook it on the stovetop! Place your chicken and sauce in a large pot, bring it to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook on low for about 2-3 hours or until the chicken is tender. Just keep an eye on it to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
What sides go well with Ohio shredded chicken sandwiches?
Classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, or corn on the cob pair beautifully with the sandwiches. They provide a nice contrast to the savory flavors and add a delightful crunch or sweetness to your meal!
Conclusion
Ohio shredded chicken sandwiches are a delightful dish that combines simplicity with heartwarming flavors, making them a perfect meal for any gathering or cozy evening at home. The melt-in-your-mouth chicken and rich barbecue sauce come together beautifully, leaving you with a sandwich that is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So why not try it for yourself? You may just find your new favorite thing to share with friends and family! If you love this Ohio shredded chicken sandwich recipe, save it for later or share it with someone who’d enjoy it too. Happy cooking!
Print
Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwiches
- Total Time: 495 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free (with modifications)
Description
Comforting shredded chicken sandwiches drenched in barbecue sauce, perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts into the slow cooker.
- Add chicken broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir gently to combine.
- Set slow cooker to low for 6 to 8 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it back with the sauce.
- Serve the shredded chicken on hamburger buns, adding coleslaw if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider using different barbecue sauce or adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 480 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
