This Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich is a cozy treat! With tender shredded chicken cooked in a tasty sauce, it’s perfect for a quick meal or a picnic.
What I love is how easy it is to make. Just throw everything in a pot, let it simmer, and pile it high on your favorite bun. So simple, yet so yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are ideal for shredding. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a great option too! They tend to be juicier.
Barbecue Sauce: Use any sauce you like! Sweet, tangy, or smoky flavors all work beautifully. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider a homemade or low-sugar version.
Chicken Broth: This adds moisture and flavor. If you’re short on broth, water works too, but you might lose some flavor. For a kick, use a bit of apple cider vinegar instead!
Coleslaw: I love a crunchy coleslaw topping! You can use pre-packaged coleslaw mix for ease. For a healthier twist, mix in some Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
How Do I Achieve Tender, Shredded Chicken?
Making tender, easily shredded chicken is all about cooking it just right. Follow these steps for juicy results:
- Start by searing the chicken for flavor—this creates a nice crust.
- Simmer with the lid on! Keeping the steam in helps the chicken cook evenly and stay moist.
- After cooking, let it rest for a few minutes before shredding. This keeps the juices locked in.
Using two forks to shred gives you the best texture, but you can also use a stand mixer on a low setting for really fast shredding!
Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 sandwich buns (hamburger or brioche buns work well)
- 2 cups coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes getting everything ready and another 20 minutes to let the chicken simmer. Once done, put the sandwiches together and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. This will help give your chicken a nice sear.
2. Season the Chicken:
While the oil heats up, take the chicken breasts and season them with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if you’d like that smoky flavor), salt, and pepper. Make sure both sides are coated well!
3. Sear the Chicken:
Add the chicken to the hot skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown. This step adds great flavor!
4. Add Liquid and Simmer:
Now pour in the chicken broth and barbecue sauce. Give it a little stir, then cover the skillet with a lid. Turn the heat down to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and super tender.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet carefully. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should fall apart easily—that’s how you know it’s cooked just right!
6. Mix the Chicken with Sauce:
Put the shredded chicken back into the skillet with the barbecue sauce. Stir it well to coat all the chicken in that delicious sauce!
7. Toast the Buns:
If you like toasted buns, now’s the time! You can simply place your sandwich buns in a toaster or on a skillet until they are lightly golden.
8. Assemble the Sandwiches:
On each toasted bun, pile a generous amount of the shredded barbecue chicken. Don’t be shy—load it up!
9. Top with Coleslaw:
Add a big scoop of coleslaw on top of the chicken. This adds a nice crunch and creamy texture that complements the barbecue flavor!
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your sandwiches immediately with your favorite sides like chips or pickles. Dig in and enjoy the deliciousness of your Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking! The best way to thaw chicken is in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the quick-thaw method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water.
What if I Don’t Have Barbecue Sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade barbecue sauce using ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and your favorite spices. Combine those ingredients in a bowl to taste and use it in the recipe!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well! To freeze, place it in a container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shredded chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it on the stove with a little extra sauce to keep it moist. Assemble your sandwiches right before serving for the best texture!
