Meaty Shredded Chicken Sandwich

This shredded chicken sandwich recipe brings together creamy soups and savory stuffing mix to create a crowd-pleasing meal that is easy to make and full of comforting flavor. Perfect for fundraisers, family gatherings, or casual get-togethers, this dish has been a beloved classic in Ohio for years. Using canned chicken keeps things simple and stress-free, while the slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to serve warm, hearty sandwiches with minimal hands-on effort.

I first made this during a big family fundraiser and now it is always requested whenever we gather. The creamy filling with just the right amount of herbs and seasoning keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

• Canned chicken breast: preferred for its lean quality and convenience. Choose all white meat or a combination with dark meat according to your taste
• Cream of chicken soup: brings creamy comfort and classic chicken flavor. Opt for a smooth variety like Campbell’s if possible
• Cream of celery soup: adds subtle vegetable depth to balance the creaminess
• Stove Top stuffing mix for chicken: provides seasoning and heartiness, giving the dish its distinctive flavor profile
• Chicken broth: keeps the mixture moist and helps blend the ingredients. Use a quality boxed broth or homemade stock for best flavor
• Buns: sesame seed or honey buns complement the creamy chicken well; avoid dry store-brand buns that don’t hold up as nicely

Instructions

Scoop and drain canned chicken carefully:

Open cans of chicken and pour into a strainer or colander to drain off juices completely. This step helps the chicken fluff up and absorb flavors better during cooking.

Layer chicken into slow cooker:

Transfer the well-drained chicken pieces into a greased or lined 6 to 7 quart slow cooker or large Dutch oven. Use two forks to gently separate and fluff the chicken to break up any large chunks.

Add creamy soups and broth:

Pour cans of cream of chicken soup and cream of celery soup over the chicken. Stir thoroughly to combine all elements evenly. Then add chicken broth and mix well for consistent moisture.

Incorporate stuffing mix:

Sprinkle the stuffing mix evenly over the top and stir into the chicken mixture so the seasoning distributes throughout.

Slow cook and stir regularly:

Cover and cook on low heat for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Stir the mixture every 45 to 60 minutes to prevent sticking and to evenly distribute moisture. Add additional chicken broth as needed to keep the chicken moist and creamy without drying out.

Prepare buns and serve:

Once cooked, scoop generous portions onto your choice of buns and enjoy warm. Sesame seed or honey buns work best to complement the creamy filling.

I love how the stuffing mix transforms the creamy chicken mixture bringing a homey, familiar flavor that reminds me of family dinners growing up. This recipe always brings back warm memories of bustling concession stands and piling sandwiches high for everyone at Ohio fundraisers.

Storage Tips

Store leftover chicken mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave adding a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess. For longer storage, freeze the mixture in portions for up to three months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep buns separate and fresh by storing in a cool, dry place until ready to serve.

Ingredient Substitutions

Canned turkey can be substituted for chicken for a slightly different flavor that works equally well. If you prefer homemade shredded chicken, cook and shred fresh chicken breasts or thighs before mixing with the soups and stuffing. Cream of mushroom soup may replace cream of celery soup if desired, but it changes the flavor profile slightly. Use gluten-free stuffing mix or broth to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing texture.

Serving Suggestions

These sandwiches pair wonderfully with classic sides like macaroni salad, cheesy potatoes, or coleslaw. Add potato chips or pickles on the side for a satisfying crunch contrast. Serve alongside fresh green beans or a simple garden salad for a balanced plate.

This shredded chicken sandwich is perfect for feeding a crowd and brings comforting, familiar flavors. Make extra as the leftovers freeze and reheat beautifully.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What kind of chicken works best for this dish?

Canned chicken breast is preferred for its ease and texture, but a mix of white and dark meat can add additional flavor.

→ How can I keep the mixture moist during cooking?

Adding chicken broth periodically and stirring every hour helps maintain moisture and prevents drying out.

→ Which buns pair best with the filling?

Sesame seed buns and honey buns complement the creamy chicken mixture well, while cheaper buns may dry out.

→ Can I thicken the chicken mixture if it's too runny?

Incorporate dried bread cubes, crumbled crackers, or extra stuffing mix to achieve a thicker consistency.

→ Is canned chicken a good substitute for fresh?

Yes, canned chicken is already cooked and convenient, allowing quick preparation without compromising flavor.