This Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich is a tasty treat that is packed with flavor! Tender, shredded chicken is mixed with a zesty sauce and served on a soft bun, making it perfect for any meal.
It’s a hit at gatherings! I love to pile on some coleslaw for that extra crunch. You know when the chicken is so good, you forget to share? Yup, been there! 😂
Making this sandwich is super easy. Just cook the chicken, mix it up, and you’re ready to feast. Perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend lunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect because they cook up tender and shred easily. If you’re looking for a quicker option, rotisserie chicken is a great substitute! It cuts down the cooking time.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a lovely depth of flavor, but if you’re out, you can use regular paprika. For more heat, add chili powder or cumin instead!
Coleslaw mix: A bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix makes life easier! If you want to make your own, use shredded cabbage and carrots. Alternatively, broccoli slaw can add a fun twist.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the coleslaw. If you’re avoiding mayo, a yogurt or vegan mayo could work instead. For a lighter version, sour cream is a good substitute.
How Do I Get Perfectly Shredded Chicken?
Getting that perfectly tender, shredded chicken is all about the cooking method! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Use medium heat and let the chicken cook until it’s no longer pink inside—about 4-5 minutes per side.
- After cooking, let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices in!
- Use two forks to shred the chicken. It should pull apart easily!
Trust me, nourishing chicken makes all the difference in your sandwich!
How Do I Make Creamy Coleslaw?
Making a delicious coleslaw is simple! Here’s the breakdown:
- In a bowl, mix coleslaw mix with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and any optional spice like jalapeño.
- Taste it and add salt and pepper until it’s just right for you!
- Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
This coleslaw is what makes your sandwich pop with flavor!
Ohio Shredded Chicken Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 soft sandwich buns
- 1 cup coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped green bell pepper or jalapeño (optional for a bit of heat)
- Dill pickle slices, for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes to prepare from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy meal that is perfect for lunch or a weeknight dinner. The chicken cooks in about 10 minutes, and the rest is all about mixing and assembling. Delicious in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook and Shred the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the oil heats up, season both sides of the chicken breasts with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and no longer pink inside. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare the Coleslaw:
In a mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and the finely chopped green bell pepper or jalapeño if you want some heat. Stir everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference. Set the coleslaw aside for a moment.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
If you like, you can lightly toast the sandwich buns for a bit of crunch. On the bottom half of each bun, pile on a generous serving of the shredded chicken. Top the chicken with a good scoop of your creamy coleslaw mix. Finally, add some dill pickle slices on top for that extra zing!
4. Serve:
Place the top bun over the fillings and your Ohio-style shredded chicken sandwich is ready to enjoy! Serve it immediately with your favorite sides like waffle fries or potato chips. Dig in and enjoy the flavors!
This sandwich boasts tender, seasoned chicken topped with a creamy tangy coleslaw and crunchy pickles, delivering a delightful Ohio dining experience!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is to leave it in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw.
How Can I Make the Coleslaw Creamier?
If you prefer a creamier coleslaw, simply increase the quantity of mayonnaise to 1/3 cup or add a splash of buttermilk to give it extra richness. You can also mix in some sour cream for a tangy twist!
How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken gently on the stove or in the microwave, and refresh the coleslaw just before serving.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative—sliced jalapeños, shredded cheese, or even avocado slices can elevate your Ohio shredded chicken sandwich. Just make sure not to overload it so it stays manageable!