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The Unofficial Home of Shredded Chicken Sandwiches |  |
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The Unofficial Home of Shredded Chicken Sandwiches | |
January 2010 - My son, born in Bluffton OH and raised in Columbus, OH is now 28 and lives in Wash. D.C. When he's home, he has a list of foods to indulge in and/or stock up on to take home: Vernors gingerale, Conn's potato chips, Donato's pizza, etc. - - and of course the shredded chicken sandwich. Our favorite is in Mt. Victory, on Rt. 31 from the Belly Acre (no, I did not make that up!)
Mt. Victory is a little crossroads with a defunct grain elevator, a dozen antique shops and a coffee shop. If you go, watch out for low flying aircraft that are landing across the road to have dinner at the truck stop! Or maybe they're coming in for the shredded chicken sandwich! Thanks for the site!
JP from Columbus OH
January 2010 - I just came across your website while looking up recipes. I read some other people's comments, and they missed one very important place. If you want to buy shredded chicken in bulk, stop by Miller's poultry, south of Sandusky. It's located just south of St Rt 99 and St Rt 4, not far from the Ohio Turnpike. Actually, it's shredded turkey, but it's the best by far, and most likely what you're getting if you order a sandwich from any nearby restaurant. It beats Roots sandwiches by far - we always serve it for parties - especially graduation parties. It comes frozen, so it would survive a road trip home, then just heat it up & enjoy!
Anonymous
January 2010 - Wow! Who knew so many people miss shredded chicken sandwhiches! I live around Peoria, Illinois now, but was born and raised in Fostoria, Ohio. No one here has heard of shredded chicken either! I love going home and getting the tasty treats at our local Dairy Queen or other ice cream stands. Thought I'd make some for the folks here to try. Thanks for the site.
Leann C. from Peoria, Illinois
January 2010 - I just want to say thank you for this website! My girlfriend and I live in Southern California now and we grew up in Sandusky and LOVE shredded chicken. When we first came out here we had a party and wanted to serve up some good old fashioned shredded chicken, and when we went to the store and asked for it they looked at us like we were crazy! We were stunned! But everytime I go back to Sandusky in the summer time I always have to stop at Golly Gee. Its a little ice cream/food place that I started going to as a kid after little league games and I think that is where my obsession with shredded chicken has come from. Not to mention all the graduation parties with shredded chicken too! So I just wanted to let you know about Golly Gee in Sandusky and I would definitely give it 5 chickens because they are the best shredded chicken sandwiches ever, and I have to get at least two of them everytime I am there. Thanks again!
Kyle from Redondo Beach, California
January 2010 - Thanks for the website! I was looking for the recipe when I found you. I am also from Newark and have been gone for 16 years. I presently live in Houston, TX and make at least two trips a year back to Newark. I always get a shredded chicken sandwich at the Dairy Isle by the tracks on 30th Street. I am a teacher and the faculty will be having a "crock pot" lunch next week. I thought about making these. I will have to add a little note about the sandwiches roots.
Thanks again for sharing your knowledge!
Shelly B. from Houston, Texas
January 2010 - Just ran across your site looking for a recipe for shredded chicken sandwiches. Like you I've moved from Ohio to Georgia to Colorado and back to Georgia (with the Army) and no one knows about these. I don't know if they still have them but the court house in Zanesville used to have some pretty good sandwiches there a few years ago (maybe around 1998-2002). I'm from the Pataskala area by the way.
David F. from Georgia
December 2009 - On our way to Lake Erie we go through Attica, there is a drive-in at the north end of the city on Route 4, the only one in town and I don't know the name but they opened under new management last year. They have a great shredded chicken sandwich! If you go and it is fall, they have a apple dumpling sundae that is wonderful. Homemade apple dumpling, warmed with ice cream and carmel sauce. Just started them this year! Enjoy
Bruce B. from Ohio
December 2009 - I just wanted to say thank you for the website. I too grew up in Central Ohio (Bellville) and moved to northern California 12 years ago. I thought about shredded chicken sandwiches a lot when I first moved here, but was soon overwhelmed by the many choices of food in this diverse area and forgot for a while. I told my girlfriend Michele about these and she made them a couple of months ago. She made a big batch of shredded chicken in the crockpot and we would take small portions of that and toy around with variations until the batch was gone. One thing I absolutely cannot find in California is a CAN of shredded boneless chicken. We visited Ohio recently, went to the local grocery store and there it was. I packed it in my suitcase to bring back...along with some Jones Potato chips. We opened it the other night and voila...can of boneless chicken, can or two of Campbells cream of chicken and some Ritz crackers. Just like home.
When we visited Ohio, there was a new little place in Lexington called The Hungry Heifer. They have shredded chicken sandwiches. You may want to add it to the list.
Ben H. from northern California
December 2009 - Doug & Edna's Ice Cream, a seasonal ice cream stand, located on Route 12 in Pandora, Ohio has one of the best shredded chicken sandwiches.
Kim B. from Ohio
November 2009 - I am so glad I found your site. Was looking to make these for the OSU/MI game this year. I crave these ever since my track meet days in Oak Harbor, Ohio at Regionals. It was always so cold, and these scrumptious, midwestern sandwiches were just the thing we needed. I thought everyone knew what these were, but have found out otherwise. Thanks again for setting the recipe straight and taking the time to share! Go Bucks!
Aimee R. from Maumee, Ohio
November 2009 - I was on line looking for a shredded chicken sandwich recipe when I came across your web site. I guess you don't realize what you have until you are unable to get it. Another drive-in you can add to your list for serving hot shredded chicken sandwiches is K C's Drive In located in Orrville, Ohio, on High Street right across from the park. The drive in has been there for many years with car hop service. They have always had the hot creamy chicken sandwiches. K C's is open year round. Their chicken sandwiches are very good and very messy to eat!
Art H.
November 2009 - I just wanted to say thank you for building this website. I am from Ohio and joined the military at 17. I've now had the pleasure of traveling but I miss the cooking from home. I'm currently stationed in Texas and while they have many Dairy Queens none of them have my favorite Shredded Chicken sandwich. I have a very diverse group of friends & they all love it now too! Thanks again!
Noelle K. from Bellefontaine, Ohio
October 2009 - Hello and THANKS!!! I have been looking for a shredded chicken sandwich recipe for quite some time and I even live in Ohio! I have asked many people how they fix them and most of the time I just get "add cream of _____ soup to it". Well, been there done that and it ain't quite right. Tried the crackers also, but still don't get that certain taste. I have tasted only a few that were just plain DELICIOUS! One was at an anniversary party a few years back, but my cousin couldn't remember how it was fixed. The closest comes from "The Creamery" in Delphos. The only problem with theirs is that it makes me burp afterwards. Not sure if the chickens were fed sulfur water or some ingredient has some sulfur in it (??eggs if they use that ingredient). Anyhow, I was looking on the internet again to find a shredded chicken recipe to use for my mom's surprise birthday party coming up and found this website. I have learned not only some recipes, but also that the shredded chicken sandwich phenomenon is mostly a northwest Ohio thing. WOW!! Makes me feel kind of special that we can lay claim to something so simple yet remain an isolated treat. I have grown up in Spencerville, Ohio and continue to live here. I lived in Columbus for about 3 years when I went to college (OSU---go BUCKS!), but come to think of it I never did eat any shredded chicken sandwiches there nor even seen them on menus when I have traveled outside the area or state. The comment section was fun to read and actually entertaining to find so many of us northwest Ohioians craving these sandwiches through the years. Guess growing up in the Midwest has its advantages---great homecooking! Enjoyed the website and wish me happy eating.
Tammy C. in Spencerville, Ohio
October 2009 - I was simply looking for a shredded chicken recipe when I was so lucky to have found you!!! I have had a ball going through the site. I, too, thought EVERYBODY, EVERYWHERE knew what a shredded chicken sandwich was......Ha! I was so wrong!
Week after next is The Pumpkin Show here in Pickaway county. Many of the church booths will be selling shredded chicken.
Thanks for such a fun site! I have sent the addresss to all my email friends.
Rita G. in Circleville, Ohio
October 2009 - Waynes Tastee Freeze on Chestnut Street in Coshocton Ohio has first-rate chicken sandwiches. I had the same experience--leave central Ohio, and you never see these! Thanks for the website, recipe, etc.
Tom M. in Coshocton, Ohio
October 2009 - I just found your web site and will forward to all of my Sandusky friends to correct my statement about shredded chicken sandwiches. I moved to Columbus in 1982 and never saw a shredded chicken sandwich - not even in the OSU hospital cafeteria. I moved to Sandusky in 1992 where I was first exposed to the sandwich. It is a must at every large gathering, especially graduation parties. The only brand people will purchase here is Roots. The sandwich I sampled does not have a cream base, just broth. I have always enjoyed informing the locals that no one ate these sandwiches except them. They are always in shock since of course they grew up with them so just assumed it was something everyone ate. Now I have to correct that statement somewhat but it is still true that it is an Ohio phenom. I saw that Sandusky was not on the map so just wanted to let you know it is huge here. I probably could not name all of the places that one could purchase this. In Huron they claim to have the best at the Pied Piper ice cream stand. Thank you for the information!
M. M. in Sandusky, Ohio
September 2009 - Wow, what a great surprise. I was surfing the web for "shredded chicken sandwiches" and came across your site. I moved to eastern PA in 2001 and nobody here seems to know what it is. But the biggest shocker on your site is where you are from, because so am I! Yep, Newark Ohio! Most of my family still lives there.
Anyway, just had to drop you a note and tell you I know how you feel when looking for something that you had no idea was exclusive to one small town in Ohio until you move away.
Damita B., a former Nerk Ahian, now in Pennsylvania
September 2009 - I grew up in North Baltimore, and these became my favorite of all sandwiches early on. I had no idea they were THIS regional, I figured it was more of a midwest thing. My husband, a Virginia native (where we now live) had never heard of this delicacy before I forced one on him at the Wood County Fair years ago, but it has become one of his favorite things about the fair and is always the first stop we make! I've always seen them served from slow cookers, but in my looooooong search for a recipe, none so much as mentioned this. I'm so glad to find your website and will be trying your basic recipe tonight!
Since the fair probably doesn't count, the only other place I knew to regularly serve them was the Daily Queen in North Baltimore... though I haven't been there for about 15 years. Still, if you (for some reason) ever find yourself in that little town (off 1-75 between Findlay and Bowling Green) in summer, might be worth checking out. It's just at the beginning of down town (which is all of two blocks long), a little white walk-up ice cream place. Thanks again!
Emily R. in Virginia
September 2009 - We just bought a small crockpot and got hungry for the real shredded chicken sandwich they serve in this area of NW Ohio. Found your website, the internet shrine of shredded chicken, and we will try your recipe. I think there is always a pot of this stuff bubbling somewhere in Napoleon because every church bazaar, county fair booth, and local restaurants offer these tasty sandwiches year round. I've lived in many states, have never seen them any place but Ohio.
Carolyn R. in Napoleon, Ohio
September 2009 - I am originally from Kentucky. I moved to Ohio when I was 15. I graduated from Triad High School in North Lewisburg, Ohio and they always served shredded chicken at all the ball games. This is the first time I remember having a shredded chicken sandwich. I seem to associate the shredded chicken sandwich with fall. So, I was searching the internet for a good, easy recipe and found this site. Very enjoyable site! I have passed the link on to my family members who have moved back to Kentucky. I'm sure the shredded chicken will be the next star at the next Egypt Christian Church supper.
Jennie S. in Baltimore, Ohio
September 2009 - I too had googled "shredded chicken sandwiches" to refresh my memory of the ingredients. That is when I came across your website. That was so fun coming acrossed it. I noticed you had rated 4 chickens to a former employer of mine, "Mick's Dari Stop" (now O'Moos) in Newark. That really brought back memories and that is where I loved to have the shredded chicken sandwiches with lettuce & pickle (my own creation)! Never would have realized these sandwiches are native to these parts of the States. We will be selling shredded chicken sandwiches at our local high school volleyball invitational this weekend. The sandwiches are a big hit and they are usually sold out! Thank you for this as I have enjoyed your website.
Sandy P. in Newark, Ohio
August 2009 - I just found your website. I am a pastor at a small United Methodist Church in Georgia - who is originally from Northern Ohio. Recently I convinced our congregation to try a different type of fundraiser - a shredded chicken luncheon! Those who sampled Roots Shredded Chicken loved it though one wanted it barbequed!
Pastor Tom C. in Georgia
August 2009 - How funny this is. I am from Marion, Ohio and I'm looking for a good chicken sandwich recipe. The best one I've come across is from a man who is now retired. When ever there was a pot luck, he always got elected to bring his chicken. I can not get ahold of him, but it sounds alike like your Aunt Dorothys. But I know he added chicken seasoning and no soup. I think I will try Aunt Dorothy's.
Judy in Marion, Ohio
July 2009 - Just wanted to let you know that your Aunt Dorothy rocks! I tried her recipe yesterday and was instantly transported from 107 degrees in Tucson, Arizona to pleasant, temperate Ohio. I also need to let you know that I had baked a chicken the day before and used that, instead of boiled chicken, and added canned chicken stock. It still worked like a charm. Thank you so much, and please thank your Aunt Dorothy for me.
Sue E. in Tucson, Arizona
July 2009 - I got this craving and found your site while sorting through all the so called shredded chicken sandwich recipes. It was like a reunion - reading all of the comments from relocated Ohioans about their cravings, disappointments, and desires to find a replacement for this much loved sandwich. I also grew up in Newark and got hooked on shredded chicken sandwiches while working in the snack bar at the Babe Ruth Ballpark in the south end of town. I always figured it was more of a fond memory - because I also enjoyed the sloppy joe sandwiches served at the cafeteria at Licking Memorial. It was the way they served it on a toasted bun. I thought it had more to do with the memory of hanging out with my mom while she worked in the gift shop just like the chicken sandwich had more to do with the baseball park and listening to Led Zeppelin on the radio while eating and drinking my share of junk food and watching the cute boy I liked play baseball. I never thought this memory could actually be a culinary delight revered by so many!!! I've been back to Newark twice this year due to family illnesses and had no idea how close I was to making my memory a reality!!! Next time the list of restaurants goes with me.
Laura S. in Florida
July 2009 - I was searching for chicken sandwiches with the ones they used to have at the Tastee Freeze in Bowling Green, Ohio. I found your website and here were all these people from places I know. (BG, Newark, Holgate) I will definitely try the Southside Six when I am in Bowling Green thanks to Dan S. I hear they have really good Gyros, too. And thanks for the recipes.
Glenna F. H.
July 2009 - I too am an Ohio native who moved away (I landed in western KY) and have been craving shredded chicken since. My husband thought I meant pulled chicken which was awful, so in my attempt to explain it to him we found your website, but I am afraid it lead to more confusion. You missed the shredded chicken capital of Ohio! Fremont, Roots is based there (http://www.rootspoultry.com/index.htm) and Woodys drive in. It's a little different, that area doesn't have the "cream" factor that the recipes you listed have (no cream soups or flour), but it is the style my family has always made. I give it 5 out of 5 hens, it's fantastic. I'm going to have to get a crock pot and make a batch my self before I explode.
Jenn W. in Kentucky
July 2009 - Wow was I happy to find this website. My daughter just graduated from Grandview and is a 10 letter athlete. Needless to say --- she's had her fair share of chicken sandwiches and LOVES LOVES LOVES them. However, I've never made them. Got a recipe years ago from a wrestling tourney, but someone else made them. I thought perhaps I'd make a big batch for our son to take back to college for his new college aptartment and then for our daughter when she comes home from her freshman year at OU for a surprise. I'm sure she (like her brother) will be bringing home friends and I think they're all pulled porked out!
Thanks so much!
Tracy L. in Grandview Heights, Ohio
July 2009 - I, too, am from Newark, Ohio. I went south to North Carolina about 23 years ago and have missed the chicken sandwich the most, I think. I was telling my daughter about it and we finally made it back to Newark last summer where she actually got to try her first one. Now, nothing else will do.
I searched everywhere we went for that sandwich and like you, was never able to find it or even a close approximation of it anywhere. I plan to try Aunt Dorothy's basic recipe. I have even wondered if I could get a cousin to buy a quart of the chicken, freeze it and ship it in dry ice. That's how much I missed that darned sandwich. Thanks for posting this recipe.
Kathy H. from North Carolina
July 2009 - This is awesome!! I am printing the recipe and trying it tonight. I moved away from Sandusky, Ohio 30 years ago and there are just some things you can not find. We went back about 4 years ago and shredded chicken was just one of the awaited items!!
Along with seeing lightening bugs; fries with vinegar; Tofts ice cream - that is another thing.... ice cream stands just aren't the same!! And awe yes the buckeye candies.
Thanks so much for sharing the recipe.... can't wait to try it!
Kristy
July 2009 - Love this site! Growing up in Newark, chicken sandwiches were a summer staple and until I found your webpage I had no idea they were a regional trend. Thanks for taking the time to make us smile.
Julie L. in Newark Ohio
June 2009 - There are several locations here in Van Wert, Ohio. Thanks for your site!
From Van Wert, Ohio
June 2009 - Hi! We're so happy to find your web site. We live in Arizona, but I grew up in Central Ohio and absolutely L-O-V-E shredded chicken sandwiches.
I never miss an opportunity to have more than my fair share whenever I visit which, unfortunately, is only once a year. If we're there the first week in September, Fredericktown has its annual Tomato Show, and Main Street is closed from the Gazebo at the South end to First Street at the North end. One of the local organizations always has a booth where they sell to-die-for chicken sandwiches.
Several years ago we were in Mt. Vernon at a coin show, and sure enough, they were serving shredded chicken sandwiches. And when we had an estate sale after my Dad died, some of the local ladies made a big batch and brought them over for the "lookers and buyers." You can bet I had more than two!
But, when I visit my Mom, who still lives in Fredericktown, I walk across the street to the bulk store and get a couple of sandwiches to go. They have a tiny "deli" in the store.
I recently was in the hospital and my husband knew that, as soon as I got home and was able to eat solid food, I would REALLY like to have a shredded chicken sandwich. When he was looking up the phone number for the bulk store so he could call to get the recipe, he came across your web site.
Wow!! We're trying all the recipes, and we'll let you know which one we deem the "let's fly to Ohio for a chicken sandwich" best. Thanks again for posting!
Sue and Dick E. in Tucson, Arizona
June 2009 - I have been searching for "the" chicken sandwich since I left Newark in 1950. One of our neighbors said it was just shredded chicken, broth and salt and pepper, but it never tasted like the ones we used to get at the root beer stand. Love your recipes and look forward to trying them.
There is nothing like it here outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Thanks for the Web site.
Janet M. near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
June 2009 - I am also from central Ohio and have searched high and low for good shredded chicken in Northwest Ohio. Here in Bowling Green my favorite party store/Lebanese cookery (South Side Six, corner of Napoleon Road and South Main Street) has started selling very passable shredded chicken sandwiches. While you are there, you can also buy the best Hummus in all of the Midwest.
Dan S. in Bowling Green, Ohio
June 2009 - My daughter, now living in Chicago area was looking for a chicken receipie and sent this to me, as we live in Newark, and all our kids grew up on chicken sandwiches, and we just took them for granted. So glad to read your article, and it sure touched a soft spot in my daughter's heart as well as mine. They are really good sandwiches. As a teen ager she worked for Dairy Isle where they sell many every day.
Nancy in Newark, Ohio
May 2009 - I have been combing the internet for a good recipe for shredded chicken sandwiches. The best one I've ever had is from a Dairy Queen in North Canton, Ohio on Cleveland Ave., 44720. It is called Ro's Dairy Isle. I have also had great ones at the Mount Vernon Fair in Mount Vernon, Ohio. Most recently, I have discovered great shredded chicken sandwiches at Shakes Pizza and Creams on 17th Street SW, Canton, Ohio. This is a fairly new establishement that is open year-round. I really enjoyed your article, as I too am a connisuer of the sandwiches.
Jan
May 2009 - I grew up around Delaware, mostly north of town. My dad and I would go to the Whipple's ice cream shop in Ashley. It's on the east side of the tracks at the intersection of 229 and 42, right in the center of downtown. I don't know how they made them. No one where I live now near Tacoma, WA has ever heard of them. I'm a decent cook, but I had to look for a recipe ... seems to be quite a few, guess I've got some experimenting to do.
Jon G. in Tacoma, Washington
April 2009 - I, too, am from Defiance, Ohio. I was looking for a recipe for my upcoming sandwich shop that used pulled chicken, when I clicked on the link for recipes nothing happened. Could you e-mail Aunt Dorothy's recipe? If I decide to use it in my operation I will call it Aunt Dorothy's chicken sandwich.
Paul in Fort Myers, Florida
April 2009 - For Alteta in Tampa and anyone else interested. Forget boned chicken in a can. I've tried Keystone twice and we were disappointed in the resulting bland taste. For less price plus a dinner for two, try a rotisserie chicken from your favorite super market. Our leftovers gave us about four cups of chicken which produced wonderful shredded chicken. My third try using rotisserie chicken is being simmered as I type this. When perfected I'll add the results to the recipe page. Meanwhile your search for the perfect home shredded chicken will be enhanced with a roasted chicken (with your favorite flavors).
John D. in Dublin, Ohio
April 2009 - I love this web-site and it is just what I needed since I have had a rough past 3 days looking for boned chicken in a can at my local supermarkets and supercenters. Here is the thing, I too am from Newark and in fact my parents ran the Carlson's Kampus Korner from when I was in 8th grade till after I graduated high school. For those who don't know this place it was an ice cream shop within walking distance from Newark High School. So I know how to make the sandwiches just fine, it is finding the right ingredients.
My family was just down visiting this past week for spring break and we were talking about the best sandwiches in the world. So I was craving them and decided to make them but then my heart was broke only to realize I can't find the canned boned chicken. I called my sister right away and asked where can I find this and she told me Wal-Mart. Yea right! I said maybe they don't carry this stuff down here and she laughed and said "I don't think that people from Ohio is the only place that eats chicken sandwiches". I agreed and felt kind of stupid for saying that so on I went and I finally just bought breast of chicken in water (maybe better for you but it is not the same taste at all). I made it last night and like I said not the same taste at all, good but not the best sandwiches in the world. I have brought them to work to pass out because I just can't eat them!
Anyhow, I will check back on your website to see any new postings and if I do find a retailer that sells the right ingredients I will post it. (And maybe our recipe if my dad lets me :).
Aleta in Tampa, Florida
March 2009 - I love your web site! In Fostoria, OH it is the Dairy Queen for what I term "squishy chicken sandwiches". Oh, the weird looks when I ask for that elsewhere! Seems that every year they change the recipe a bit - used to be better than it was last year.
Cindy M. in Georgia
March 2009 - I've just found your website and I must say I am shocked! Shocked and dismayed! I grew up in Wooster and shredded chicken sandwiches have always simply been a part of life; it never occurred to me that others would not know of this delight. I have been living in Baltimore for several years and, like you, have experienced culture shock in a variety of ways but this seems to be the most distressing, not only for me, but for my concern for all the lost souls who have never had a shredded chicken sandwich! I am 11 weeks pregnant and almost all food is revolting. But the shredded chicken sandwich holds itself up as a shining beacon of culinary goodness that I could actually stomach: and I can't get one! When I started asking around, everyone either looked at me blankly or mentioned buying a tub of shredded BBQ chicken at the grocery store. They do not understand. I am considering holding a shredded chicken sandwich party to spread the good word, and I know what I'll be bringing to the next office pot luck. Thank you for sharing this surprising finding!
Erin C. in Baltimore, Maryland
March 2009 - I really enjoyed reading your article this morning. We live in Defiance, Ohio and have enjoyed those sandwiches for years in this area. Most all our local "mom and pop" restaurants will serve them. One of the best places to find them are the soft serve ice cream shops, like Eric's All American. I also bought them for my Dad when I'd visit him in Lima at the Sharon King Dairy Bar on West Elm St.
We understand your delight in these wonderful delights, as do most people in NW Ohio. You will see them at almost every home for graduation parties, wedding showers, etc.
I got on your site this morning because we are going to Florida later this week and might want to make them at our daughter's house while we are there. I was just brushing up on the ingredients!
Deb and Don D. in Defiance, Ohio
Feb 2009 - I am in Newark,Ohio and Love these. I was searching for recipe for a birthday party and came across your site. I am amazed that only Ohio has these. I love them and can't imagine not having them. The Buckeye Breeze Thru in Thornville, Ohio has them and they are great.
Joyce in Newark, Ohio
Feb 2009 - I was looking for a shredded chicken recipe and came across your web site. I LOVE shredded chicken sandwiches. I was raised around Mansfield, Ohio and grew up with them at church socials and grange meetings along with at home. Now I live in northern Indiana where the shredded chicken sandwich does not exist. I tried to make them myself a while back, but I used only chicken breasts. The chicken was definitely missing something. What I remember were sandwiches that came from chickens that had probably been freshly killed and cooked most likely the same day. Anyway, thanks for the list of drive-ins and restaurants!! Can't wait to take a drive to Ohio and try some places!
Kathy H. in Indiana
Jan 2009 - My wife and I grew up in Mansfield, Ohio and have lived all over the country. Shredded chicken sandwiches are definately a local phenomenon. We live in Texas now. A trip back to Ohio is not complete without a shredded chicken sandwich from Dairy Land and Jones potato chips.
Marvin Z. in Texas
Jan 2009 - Just wanted to thank you for this site and the recipes! I grew up in Lima, OH, and now live in Missouri. No one here has heard of shredded chicken and none of my Internet recipe searches turned up anything for these sandwiches! Until I found your site! I made them today for lunch and my kids loved them, of course.
I had no idea this was a regional "thing" and I just can't believe the rest of the country has not discovered them. What would a potluck, family reunion or potluck be without a crock pot full of shredded chicken?!
Thanks for the fun trip down memory lane.
Janet H. in Jefferson City, Missouri
Jan 2009 - My heart goes out to all who never tasted the shredded chicken sandwich from Ken's Kones in Centerburg, Ohio. Located just south of Centerburg on Route 36, this independent drive in provided the best shredded chicken sandwich we (my wife and I) have ever tasted.
Our journeys to our original home, Mount Vernon, from Dublin, Ohio would always include a stop at Kent's Kones for a lunch that rivaled the best restaurants in Columbus. If lunch was missed then our return trip always included a Ken's Kones dinner for that evening.
Alas, Ken's Kones was sold during the 2008 winter. Our visit will the new owners happened during their first day of operation. Sadly the shredded chicken was not up to the previous owner's unsurpassed standards. We realize the first day is not the best day to sample new cuisine so we remain hopeful the original recipe was passed on and just in need of fine tuning. We will be trying them again this spring.
Meanwhile our search will continue. We can advise of drive ins throughout the state that don't approach the Shredded Chicken Utopia we found in Centerburg. Scratch Plain City (too much pepper), Route 42 west of Delaware (bland), Frazysburg's Dairy Isle (too corporate), the home of the original shredded sandwich for us, the Band Booth (is this a lost art?) and countless others.
Forget northern Ohio. Nothing found there either.
Because of our mutual craving for the ultimate shredded chicken sandwich I am in the early stages of perfecting a recipe worthy of the gods. (The web search for ideas led me to your wondrous web site.) While my wife pleads and warns to "keep it simple, stupid!", I know that the secret ingredient must be found. Next try will include a tablespoon of lemon. How does that sound? Maybe a tablespoon or two of Mayo.
Or perhaps I can find out Ken's last name and track him down.
John D. in Dublin, Ohio
Jan 2009 - As a former Galion, Ohio resident (Crawford County). I have been in search of the beloved shredded chicken sandwich. My dad and I call them North School Fall Festival Chicken Sandwiches. Because at my elementary school, there was always a huge roaster pan filled with this creamy delight.
I bought my mother a roaster for Christmas this year. The eyes of my dad and mine are sparkling with delight at the thought of that roaster filled with shredded chicken.
I am on my knees sending praise your way for this website. I can hardly wait to get to the grocery store to buy my ingredients.
God Bless you... and God Bless shredded chicken sandwiches.
Tami H. from Galion, Ohio
Dec 2008 - Your website is totally cracking me up! I was googling "shredded chicken sandwiches" and I came across your website. As a resident of Wooster Ohio, and formerly Columbus, Ohio, I had no idea that this was a REGIONAL phenomenon. I started to get that idea just before I searched the world wide web though, because there were no recipes in any of my cookbooks (and I have a lot of cookbooks!). I have enjoyed reading all the anecdotes from various parts of Ohio, but I just wanted to put my two cents in from Wooster! It is New Year's Eve and I am boiling my chicken even as we speak, so wish me luck!
Kathy W. in Wooster, Ohio
P.S. I ended up deciding to make my shredded chicken by adding two cans of Cream of Mushroom soup, and nothing else and they were beyond fabulous!!
Dec 2008 - What a wonderful surprise to find your website! Both sets of my grandparents lived in Tiffin, OH. When we would visit them we would take Rt 18 into Tiffin, stopping to visit the farm family before heading to the town family. But first, we would stop at the A&W stand and get chicken sandwiches and root beer. WHAT A TREAT!
When we moved to Cleveland, OH, there was nothing that could even come close to that tasty treat, so our mother started to make them. She used the same recipe as your Aunt Dorothy. I remember her using a metal shaker with some milk and flour (I got to shake it carefully) to make the thickening. We will get together with my brother for New Year's Eve and I wanted to make the sandwiches, but was not sure of the recipe. AND THERE YOU WERE! with the recipe just as I remembered.
Connie S. in Novelty, Ohio
Oct 2008- I have found the ultimate shredded chicken sandwich in a small town called Richwood Ohio. It's about 15-20 minutes from where I live in Marysville, Ohio. It's called Curbside Cones. These are FABULOUS! Just had one two weeks ago on a whim. YUM! Please add them.
Michele in Marysville, Ohio
Sept 2008 - Thanks for the website. I have to make sandwiches for tonight and couldn't remember the part about the crackers. Every other website seemed confused by the terms creamy chicken sandwiches. I live in Rockford, Ohio and the Tastee Twirl carries the sandwiches there. They are very good and cost under $2.
Jenne F. in northwest Ohio
Sept 2008 - I don't have any locations for these sandwiches, but I know exactly what you're talking about. I lived in Vanatta and just south of dry run road on Rt 13 was a little dairy bar that sold the most delicious shredded chicken sandwich ever. That was about 45 years ago. I believe they were 5 for a dollar. Then nine years ago I was at the Circleville pumpkin festival and there was a cheerleader's booth selling shredded chicken sandwiches. So close to what I remember. I asked one of the mothers who had the recipe and was told it came from a can. Nobody knew the name on the can. I've searched the internet looking for the recipe. I've asked lots of people. Then today my wife comes home and says she just happened across this web site, your web site. I always thought the chicken was in a white sauce. I know it was moist and tender and it stayed on the bun, party size buns it seems.
Thank you for posting the recipe, Shawn L.
Sept 2008 - Hi, I just wanted to comment on the site. First I think it's great. Second, I live in Powhatan Point Ohio (Belmont County). We serve these at the local football games (River) and feed the teams and Longaberger Basket Bingos. They're great.
I came across the site when a co-worker asked me how to make them and number of servings etc. I have brought them in and Buffalo Chicken Dip for food days and they are a tremendous hit and were quite the mystery. BTW I work in Pittsburgh!
Dan W. in Pittsburgh
Aug 2008 - I am so happy and excited about your page. We are Ohio Natives and love the shredded chicken sandwhiches. My husband grew up in Bluffton (Allen County) and they are very popular there. We were in Allen County for our Honeymoon and had them from the Dairy Freeze in Bluffton and the Allen county Fair Vendors were selling them. I was looking for recipes, as we had this delightful dish at our wedding and it was a big hit. My cousin is getting married in November and wants this for her wedding. I live in Delaware now, and you can barely find the cans of shredded chicken here. So Quados to you and your site; you've made 2 people very happy.
Bobbi P. in Newark, Delaware
2008 - So listen, I too am from Newark. I moved to Indianapolis in 1991. I too suffered from not being able to get this stuff here! It is so funny the reaction I get when I mention "shredded chicken" here. Everyone thinks I'm talking about shredded with BBQ sauce. I'm glad to find your page.
Mike D. in Indianapolis
Aug 2008 - I grew up in St. Marys , Ohio, and the family went to the root beer stand at the lake every Saturday night for supper. We would get a shredded chicken sandwich and a cold, frosty mug of root beer. But atlas, everything has to change and the root beer stand is gone....but I did find another place (Tastee Treet Dairy Bar) just last year that has some delicious chicken sandwiches.
I live in Southeast Ohio now and can't find anyplace down here that makes them. I did find during the Parade of the Hills, there was a vendor from Circleville and had something to do with NASCAR. Those sandwiches came real close to what I had as a kid.
I really like your website and have it bookmarked, just in case I get someplace close.
Barbara A. in Ohio
Aug 2008 - I Enjoyed reading your article on shredded chicken sandwiches. I went to the website to find a quick recipe for my Ohioan husband. Some one told me their recipe is shredded chicken, little milk, one beaten egg, and some bread crumbs cooked.
Dani K.
Aug 2008 - I am having a church get together at my house and wanted to do the shredded chicken sandwiches. So upon searching for a recipe for the sandwiches I found your website. I noticed that the Dairy Queen here in Gahanna is listed as serving these shredded chicken sandwiches so since my son works at that dairy queen I as him how they are made and he said they only use the canned chicken and cream of mushroom soup. I think I am going to use cream of mushroom soup with the idiot recipe because another member at my church said that the boosters makes it with the canned chicken, Ritz crackers and cream of mushroom and sells them at the Gahanna Football games. Thanks for your website it was very helpful.
Jennifer M. in Gahanna, Ohio
Aug 2008 - Your website is a hoot. I too am a transplanted Buckeye, but I visit my hometown frequently and am proud to report that the shredded chicken sandwich is alive and well in Shelby, Ohio (Richland County, near Mansfield). In fact, I don't think you can have a graduation party there without serving them. My niece graduated last year, and every single party we went to (~15) served shredded chicken sandwiches. I am giving my son a party next week and was searching for a good shredded chicken recipe for a crowd and hence found my way to you!
Jill R. in Cazenovia, New York
June 2008 - Thanks for the recipe. I grew up near Steubenville, Ohio and remember these sandwiches being served at all church functions, at graduation parties, funerals, any place there is a crowd to feed. I have recently moved to Newark and see these being served at baseball games, football games, and even at a fundraiser for the school. I am planning on making them for my daughter's baby shower next weekend. The recipe I had was for a large can of chicken, a can of cream of chicken, a can of cream of celery, and a little broth if needed to make it good and sloppy. Throw it into the crock pot and enjoy it all day. Thanks for the website. I was unaware that these sandwiches were so rare outside of Ohio.
Michele in Newark, Ohio
June 2008 - I thought the whole world knew about the ever lovin' shredded chicken sandwich. I'm in Ohio and the best Shredded Chicken I have ever eaten was at the Dairy Queen in Marysville Ohio. Although, it changed hands several years ago, and even though is still quite good, just isn't the same as it was.
Thanks for your great site, Michele in Marysville, Ohio
June 2008 - What a hoot! I live in central Ohio and had NO idea this was a regional thing! Went to look it up on-line and couldn't believe the lack of recipes! I live just north of Columbus (Delaware Co.) I have had the sandwiches through the years and have been to potlucks where they were served, again never dreaming it was anything but a staple! Got a chuckle out of the website and am off to dig-up the recipe scrawled for me from a friend years ago.
By the way, my son is just finishing the Great Ohio Bike Adventure (GOBA) and the mill at Utica was a stop for the several thousand riders. I wonder how many new chicken sandwich converts there are! :-)
Julie M. in Ohio
May 2008 - I was so happy to find your website. I was looking for a shredded chicken recipe and found you. I'm from ohio but moved to MN in 1976 and was sadden to find no shredded chicken sandwich anywhere. I gave up asking for them in restaurants. The best they could come up with is BBQ shredded chicken.....yuck. I'm orginally from the Delphos Ohio area and Delphos has at least 2 places that serve shredded chicken sandwiches and they are delicious! The A & W and The Creamery. The Creamery also has the largest ice cream cones I've ever seen and the price can't be beat. When we were there last, there were cars lined up halfway up the street. Thanks SO MUCH for the recipe! I can't wait to make them.
Sharon L. in Minnesota
May 2008 - Hey I found your web site and there are a lot of places around Lima Ohio that serve shredded chicken sandwiches. All of the ice cream stores and restruants. One of the best places in the area are a local hamburger place called Happy Daz. They are big and they have a lot of flavor.
Dawn T. in Lima, Ohio
May 2008 - I almost fell off my seat when I stumbled across your website. I am making this classic Ohio treat for my husband birthday party. I was checking with some friends, here in Michigan, and none of them had even heard of them. I was floored....I ate them all the time in Ohio (I grew up in Mansfield), even in Columbus I would get them at DQ, and now I still enjoy one at the Richland County Fair.
I was happy to find your website and your recipes. I can't wait to introduce a "Buckeye" sandwich to all my new Wolverine friends.
A "Buckeye" in Michigan
April 2008 - My mother used to make these chicken sandwiches every few months and I was always excited when she did. I have not had one in over 30 years..the last one was a little drive thru restaurant of some kind in Westerville Ohio. I do not remember her recipe at all although I do know she boiled the chicken.
Ron G. in Houston, Texas
April 2008 - I was so excited to find your shredded chicken sandwich website. I grew up in Mansfield, Ohio (Richland County), and they are popular there, too. I'm on the East Coast now, and I get only blank looks when I try to explain what a shredded chicken sandwich is. Most people assume its a BBQ chicken sandwich. The best places to get them is at high school events, but good drive-in ones can be had at JB's and Nicky T's, both in Lexington. Thanks for your website!
Louann
April 2008 - We have two locations that serve awesome shredded chicken sandwiches. Cravings and Eric's Ice Cream in Defiance Ohio.
I live in Holgate Ohio and we have hot shredded chicken at every family gathering. We serve it in our concession stands at the ballgames. It is served at graduation parties and all types of events in the area.
I work for a grocery store as an event planner and I set up demos. I am doing a demo for hot shredded chicken during our upcoming graduation event.
Thanks for the website and the recipes. Shelly K. in Holgate, Ohio
March 2008 - I had to chuckle when I found your website about the chicken sandwiches found in Central Ohio, primarily Newark. Born and raised in Newark all of my 50 years, I know exactly what you're talking about. Searching for a good chicken sandwich recipe to serve a crowd of about 150 people at a motorcycle event my husband is organizing, I found many. The only problem was I had a hard time finding the recipe you and I both know and love from Newark. Most were grilled or breaded chicken. That was until I stumbled onto your website. I'm planning on making Aunt Dorothy's basic recipe, because it sounds wonderful.
Thanks for your website. I got a kick out of it. Martha D.
P.S. My brother and sister-law, both from Newark and currently living in VA, always make a trip to the Dairy Isle for a chicken sandwich when they come home!
Jan 2008 - My name is Cheryl, I am from Baltimore Maryland and I love your shredded chicken sandwich site. I have only had one real shredded chicken sandwich in my life. I went to the funeral of my kid's Godmothers (Bea) mother many years ago. It was the day that Ronald Reagan was shot. The funeral was in Celeryville, Ohio.
We all sat around Bea's house after the funeral watching the coverage of the shooting and later on our way out of town stopped at this little soft serve ice cream place, kind of a diary queen type. I have no idea why I ordered it, but I order a heavenly shredded chicken sandwich that was in a clear but not runny sause, kind of like a thick broth. It was on a bun, but not quite a hamburger bun, seeded. It was warm and wonderful. There was nothing on it, kind of a nude shredded chicken sandwich.
At the time I lived in Sunbury, Ohio and that was my first and last trip to Celeryville. I have tested shredded chicken sandwiches every since then and never found one that even came close, they alway make them with a cream sause, and/or add all kinds of weird stuff and it is never the same. Around here they don't even make them.
Cheryl H. from Baltimore, Maryland
Nov 2007 - I have only been in Ohio for a few years but have already fallen in love with the shredded chicken sandwich. These sandwiches are sold at Cream Corner in Sunbury in Delaware County where I live. They are also sold and football games and at chruch functions. I have been searching for the recipe, since it is now that time of season they are unavailable. In my search for the recipe, I have been told by several people the recipe includes oatmeal but have been unable to acquire the complete recipe.
Brenda P. in Ohio
Oct 2007 - I am so happy to have found your web page!! I think it is such an oddity too that these sandwiches can't be found outside of Ohio, and only in certain areas of Ohio. I am originally from Bucyrus Oh where we could pick up a sandwich from nearly any dairy queen, deli, and even gas station. They were always served at our high school events too. As soon as I moved to Columbus and I mentioned them, people looked at me like I was looney. "Who would shred chicken?" is probably my most popular response. They are probably my favorite sandwich and thanks for the tips, now I won't have to go home to get one. :)
Tonya Reed from Ohio
Sept 2007 - I was born in Ohio. I have been away from there for 2 years and no one around here has even heard of shredded chicken sandwiches! I lived in Mansfield and they had them at all the little ice cream shops that served food. My Mom always made them for work lunches and our family reunions. I'm dying down here lol. Guess I'll have to make my own!
Donna Rivera from Texas
2000 - I grew up eating chicken sandwiches. They serve them in restaurants and catering services carry them on their menu. In addition, I know people from Celina and Marion, OH who eat them.
Jenni Knoke from Fremont, Ohio
Feb 2000 - Since I worked at the Daisy Isle (East Main St) while I was in High School the shredded chicken sandwich has moved to Groveport, Ohio. I was in charge of the inside concession stand at the High School last year and this was a big seller with the adults. The kids would look at it and opt for either a hot dog or pizza. The High School band runs the inside concession and I have been associated with it for nine years now. The shredded chicken sells much better than the sloppy joe.
Diane F. from Newark, Ohio