Amazing Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich Recipe That Warms the Soul
Flavorful Comfort in a Bun
Hola! Growing up, my heart was always connected to the vibrant flavors of Mexico, even while growing up in sunny Orlando. My fondest memories swirl around the kitchen, where I pressed tortillas alongside my mama and learned the nuances of spices from my abuela. Those moments taught me that food is not just sustenance; it’s also love, laughter, and storytelling shared with every bite. While Orlando remains home, part of me will always reside in Oaxaca’s lively mercados and my abuela’s cozy kitchen. Here, I bring you delightful dishes like this Ohio shredded chicken sandwich—a comfort food that captures the essence of warmth and community.
Quick Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker) or 15 minutes (Instant Pot)
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: American
- Best Season: Year-round
What Makes This Dish Shine
- Irresistible Flavor: The marriage of tender, shredded chicken and rich ranch seasoning creates a flavor profile that’s simply unforgettable. Each bite is a savory burst that evokes feelings of nostalgia and comfort.
- Ideal for Gatherings: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a game day feast, this sandwich is designed for sharing. It’s guaranteed to be a hit, bringing everyone together for hearty enjoyment.
- Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, this recipe allows you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Set it and forget it with a slow cooker or whip it up in a jiffy with an Instant Pot!
- Customizable: Dress your sandwiches with various toppings like fresh lettuce, tomatoes, or avocado for added freshness. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to put your personal touch on this classic dish.
Essential Ingredients for the Sandwich
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Soft sandwich buns
Ingredient Insights
- Chicken Breasts: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and tenderness in your sandwich.
- Ranch Seasoning: Feel free to Whip together your own blend to cater to specific flavor preferences or dietary needs.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: If you want to keep it lighter, substitute with a homemade sauce or a lower-fat alternative.
Simple Step-by-Step Preparation
- Begin by placing the chicken breasts in a slow cooker or Instant Pot.
- In a separate bowl, combine chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and ranch seasoning until smooth and well blended.
- Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken, ensuring they’re well-coated.
- For slow cooking, set it to low and cook for 6-8 hours; if using the Instant Pot, seal it and cook on high for just 15 minutes.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks, creating tender, bite-sized pieces full of flavor.
- Stir in the shredded cheese, allowing it to melt and blend into the warm chicken mixture.
- Serve heaping portions of the chicken on soft sandwich buns, topped with your favorite additions like lettuce or tomatoes.
Pro Pointers for Ultimate Flavor
- Timing: For the best results, aim for low and slow cooking. This allows flavors to meld beautifully over time.
- Finishing Touch: A dash of hot sauce or sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish, adding an extra layer of sophistication.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack for a spicy kick, to customize your flavor experience.
Fun Variations to Try
- Vegan Delight: Substitute the chicken with shredded jackfruit or lentils mixed with a vegan cream sauce for a plant-based twist.
- Mild Options: For those sensitive to spice, simply omit the ranch seasoning or opt for a mild dressing to suit everyone’s tastes.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a spoonful of hot sauce to the mixture for an extra fiery bite that wakes up your taste buds.
- Regional Flair: Incorporate BBQ sauce for a tangy Southern-inspired version of this classic dish.
Perfect Pairings for Your Sandwich
Elevate your meal by pairing these sandwiches with sides, such as crispy coleslaw, seasoned sweet potato fries, or a refreshing cucumber salad. For drinks, consider serving a flavorful lemonade or iced tea to balance out the richness of the chicken.
Make Ahead & Freezing Guidelines
This dish can be a lifesaver for meal prep! Make the shredded chicken ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore moisture.
Presenting Your Warm Sandwich
For a cozy serving experience, plate the sandwich on rustic wooden boards, adding a touch of greenery with fresh herbs. A side of vibrant pickles or colorful veggies can enhance the visual appeal, making your meal even more inviting.
Smart Cooking Tips
- Slow Cooker vs. Instant Pot: While both equipment options yield delicious results, the slow cooker offers a more hands-off approach, creating deeper flavors over a longer cooking time.
- Shredding Technique: Use two forks or stand mixers for quick shredding; this saves time and creates evenly shredded chicken.
- Add Texture: Including crispy fried onions or crunchy slaw on top can give a delightful contrast to the soft chicken and bun.
Safe Keeping and Reheating
Storage is simple; keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For reheating, the microwave is perfect for quick warmth, but using the stovetop with a splash of broth helps maintain the sandwich’s texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I substitute the chicken? Absolutely! You can use turkey breast or even shredded rotisserie chicken for an extra convenient twist.
- How can I make it spicier? Just add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes when mixing the chicken for an instant kick!
- Can this be made gluten-free? Yes! Use gluten-free buns and check that your other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.
- What if I don’t have ranch seasoning? You can whip up your own blend with basic herbs and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and dill!
- Is there a vegetarian version? Definitely! Substituting chicken with seasoned tofu or jackfruit will yield a delicious vegan version.
- How long can I store leftovers? Leftovers can generally last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 32g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary.
A Warm Reflection
Every time I prepare this Ohio shredded chicken sandwich, I am reminded of the essence of community that comes with sharing meals. Food transcends cultural boundaries, weaving stories of love, heritage, and togetherness. This recipe is not just about chicken and buns; it’s about creating moments with your loved ones, replete with laughter and joy. Serving this dish connects the modern kitchen to the warmth of my abuela’s cooking, where every bite evokes treasured memories.
Ending on a Delicious Note
This Ohio shredded chicken sandwich is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table, share stories, and create new memories. Whether you are enjoying a quiet dinner or celebrating with friends, I encourage you to try this recipe. Let the flavors capture your heart and inspire others as you cook, share, and pin your way to delicious experiences!
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Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich
- Total Time: 495 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting Ohio shredded chicken sandwich that combines tender chicken with rich ranch seasoning for unforgettable flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Soft sandwich buns
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker or Instant Pot.
- In a separate bowl, combine chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and ranch seasoning until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated.
- For slow cooking, set it to low for 6-8 hours or seal and cook in the Instant Pot on high for 15 minutes.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks.
- Stir in shredded cheese until melted.
- Serve the chicken on soft sandwich buns with desired toppings.
Notes
For a lighter option, substitute with a homemade sauce or use lower-fat alternatives for the cream of chicken soup. Customize toppings based on preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 480 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
