Introduction
Welcome to the wonderful world of comfort food! If you’re looking for a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying, look no further than the Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich. This recipe brings together tender, flavorful chicken immersed in a rich barbecue sauce, all tucked into a perfectly toasted bun. It’s the ultimate easy meal, perfect for game day gatherings, weekly meal prep, or a cozy dinner at home with loved ones. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 sandwich buns
- Pickles, for serving
- Coleslaw, for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by placing the boneless chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Add the chicken broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to ensure the chicken is well-coated.
- Cover and set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is ready when it’s cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once the chicken is cooked, take two forks and shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Mix it thoroughly with the delicious sauce that has formed.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Take your sandwich buns and toast them in the pan until they are golden brown and just a little crispy on the edges.
- It’s time to assemble! Load the shredded chicken onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add pickles and a generous scoop of coleslaw on top, then place the top half of the bun on.
- Serve these delightful sandwiches immediately, and enjoy every bite of this comfort food classic!
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, consider using smoked barbecue sauce—it adds a wonderful depth to the chicken. Leftovers, if there are any, can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and make for a tasty meal prep option during the week. Feel free to get creative with your toppings; jalapeños or sliced onions can add a nice crunch!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe relies on the slow cooking technique, which allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Shredding the chicken in the cooker keeps it moist and lets every piece soak up the sauce. Toasting the buns adds a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft chicken filling.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! Just increase the cooking time by an hour and ensure they are fully cooked and tender before shredding.
What type of barbecue sauce works best?
It really depends on your taste! A tangy sauce pairs well with the savory flavor of the chicken, but you can choose a sweeter variety for a different profile.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a dash of hot sauce to the slow cooker or incorporate sliced jalapeños in your toppings for a nice kick!
Conclusion
The Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich is a true crowd-pleaser—a comforting, hearty dish that brings everyone together at the table. Whether for a family dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is bound to satisfy your cravings and leave you with happy memories. So roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and dig into these mouthwatering sandwiches. Enjoy!