Bookmark
This shredded chicken sandwich recipe brings together tender canned chicken with creamy soups and savory stuffing mix to create a warm and comforting meal perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, holds beautifully in a slow cooker, and has been a beloved staple at family events and fundraisers for years.
I first made this during a big family reunion and everyone kept asking for the recipe. Now it’s my goto when I need a stressfree meal that satisfies a crowd.
Ingredients
- 75 ounces canned chicken breast: drained to ensure no extra liquid waters down the mix
- 32 ounces cream of chicken soup: for rich, creamy flavor that coats every bite
- 10.5 ounces cream of celery soup: adds subtle vegetable notes that balance the creaminess
- 2 cups chicken broth: to keep the mixture moist and flavorful during cooking
- 12 ounces Stove Top stuffing mix: provides seasoning and a hearty texture that makes this sandwich filling special
- 40 small to medium sandwich buns: with sesame seed or honey buns preferred for best flavor and texture — avoid dry store brand buns when possible
Instructions
- Saturate the Base:
- Open the cans of chicken and pour into a colander to drain completely. Fluff the chicken with forks to break up large chunks and create a shredded texture that will better absorb the flavors.
- Mix in Creamy Soups:
- Add the cream of chicken soup and cream of celery soup on top of the chicken and stir together thoroughly to coat every piece evenly.
- Add Broth and Seasoning:
- Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle the stuffing mix over the mixture. Stir well until the stuffing is fully combined with the creamy chicken.
- Slow Cook to Perfection:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Stir the mixture every 45 to 60 minutes to prevent burning on the edges and add additional chicken broth as needed to keep the mixture moist. Cooking low and slow helps the flavors blend beautifully.
- Prepare Sandwiches:
- Serve the warm, creamy shredded chicken on fresh buns. Sesame seed or honey buns work best as they complement the savory filling without overpowering it.
I really love the stuffing mix in this recipe because it infuses classic herb seasoning and texture in a way that keeps it comforting yet interesting. When I serve these sandwiches at family gatherings, I always get asked if it’s homemade stuffing because it smells so good while cooking.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the creamy texture smooth. Because it freezes well, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer turkey over chicken, canned turkey works just as well in this recipe. If you cannot find cream of celery soup, use additional cream of chicken soup or add finely chopped celery sautéed until soft for a similar flavor. For a glutenfree option, look for glutenfree stuffing mix or substitute breadcrumbs seasoned with herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these sandwiches with classic sides like macaroni salad, cheesy potatoes, or a crunchy black bean salad for potluckfriendly meals. They are also fantastic served alongside homemade coleslaw or crunchy kettle chips to add some texture contrast.
These shredded chicken sandwiches are ideal for feeding a crowd and are easy to make ahead. Keep extra broth on hand when reheating to maintain a creamy texture.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of chicken is best to use?
Canned chicken breast is preferred for a mild flavor, but a mix of white and dark meat can be used to enhance richness.
- → How do I keep the shredded chicken moist?
Stir the mixture regularly during cooking and add chicken broth as needed to maintain moisture throughout the slow cooking process.
- → Can I substitute fresh chicken for canned chicken?
Yes, cooked shredded chicken prepared fresh can be used instead of canned, though cooking times might vary.
- → Which buns complement the shredded chicken filling best?
Sesame seed and honey buns have been found to enhance the creamy and savory flavors, offering a soft yet sturdy base.
- → How can I thicken the chicken mixture if it’s too runny?
Add small bread cubes, crumbled crackers, or extra stuffing mix to absorb excess moisture and thicken the filling.
- → How many servings does this preparation yield?
This amount typically provides enough filling for about 40 to 50 sandwiches, depending on bun size and meat portion.