Shredded Chicken Sandwiches Made Easy

This shredded chicken sandwich recipe brings together tender chicken mixed with a flavorful stuffing mix and creamy soups to create a comforting, easytomake meal perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s the kind of recipe that’s been a favorite for Ohio fundraisers and family gatherings for years, delivering warm, satisfying sandwiches without much fuss.

I first tried this recipe at a family event and was amazed at how casual ingredients transformed into something so hearty and delicious. Now it’s a goto when I need to feed many people without standing over the stove.

Ingredients

• Canned chicken breast: convenient, precooked protein that shreds easily choose cans with all white meat for a leaner option or a mix for more flavor
• Cream of chicken soup: provides creamy texture and chicken flavor Campbell’s brand tends to be smoother but store brands work just as well
• Cream of celery soup: adds subtle vegetable flavor that balances out the creaminess
• Chicken broth: helps maintain moisture during cooking have extra on hand to add if the mixture appears dry
• Stove Top stuffing mix: seasons the chicken and thickens the filling chicken flavored is preferred but turkey stuffing is a fine substitute
• Small to medium sandwich buns: sesame seed or honey buns work best as they hold up well and complement the creamy filling

Instructions

Scoop and Drain Chicken:

Open the canned chicken and pour it into a strainer to drain the juices. Using a colander helps separate the moisture better than just pressing the lid on the can.

Fluff and Separate Meat:

Transfer the drained chicken into a lined or greased 6 to 7 quart slow cooker. Use two forks to fluff the chicken, breaking apart larger chunks so the creaminess coats every shred.

Add Creamy Soups:

Pour in the cans of cream of chicken soup and cream of celery soup over the shredded chicken. Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine every bite with the velvety soups.

Mix in Broth and Stuffing:

Add chicken broth to the slow cooker and sprinkle the stuffing mix evenly on top. Stir well to incorporate the stuffing into the creamy chicken base.

Slow Cook and Stir:

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Every 45 minutes to an hour, stir the filling and add more chicken broth as needed to keep everything moist and prevent drying or burning on the edges. Cooking on low is preferred as it allows the flavors to develop fully without overcooking the edges.

Serve Warm on Buns:

Once the filling is tender and flavorful, spoon it onto sesame seed or honey buns. These buns have the right texture and size to balance the creamy chicken without getting soggy or falling apart.

I have always been fond of the stuffing mix in this recipe it does more than season it actually transforms the texture into something uniquely comforting. Growing up in Ohio, shredded chicken sandwiches were a regular at fundraisers, and this recipe takes me right back to those cozy community gatherings filled with laughter and shared plates.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover shredded chicken filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess. Avoid sealing it too tightly while still warm to prevent steam buildup.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap canned turkey for chicken if preferred or for a flavor twist. Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soups can replace the cream of chicken but bear in mind this will subtly change the flavor profile. Homemade shredded chicken works great too cook and shred fresh chicken breasts or thighs before adding into the slow cooker.

Serving Suggestions

These sandwiches pair beautifully with classic sides like macaroni salad, cheesy potatoes, or a crisp green salad. For a picnic or potluck, offer dill pickles or sliced tomatoes alongside to add brightness and contrast. Chips or crunchy veggie sticks round out the meal nicely.

I’ve learned the hard way not to skip stirring during cooking neglecting this leads to uneven texture and dry patches around the edges. Enjoy warm on buns and serve with sides for a crowd pleasing meal.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What type of chicken is best for this dish?

Canned chicken breast is preferred for its convenience and mild flavor, but a mix of white and dark meat can also be used to add richness.

→ How do I keep the mixture moist during cooking?

Stir the slow cooker contents every hour and add chicken broth as needed to maintain a creamy, moist texture.

→ Can I use homemade chicken instead of canned?

Yes, homemade shredded chicken works well and offers fresher flavor, though canned chicken is a convenient alternative.

→ What buns work best with this filling?

Sesame seed buns and honey buns were found to complement the creamy shredded chicken best, balancing texture and flavor.

→ How can I thicken the shredded chicken mixture?

Add dried bread cubes, crumbled crackers, or extra stuffing mix to thicken the filling as desired.