Looking for a fun, flavorful, and slightly healthier twist on a classic comfort food? Say hello to Pulled Chicken Sloppy Joes, or as we like to call them, Sloppy Chickens! This recipe swaps out ground beef for tender, juicy pulled chicken, simmered in a tangy, sweet, and slightly smoky sloppy joe sauce that will have you licking your fingers clean.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual weekend gathering, or even a potluck contribution. It’s easy to make, customizable to your spice preference, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love These Sloppy Chickens:
- Healthier than traditional Sloppy Joes: Lean chicken breast makes this a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
- Quick and Easy: With pre-cooked chicken, this comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Kid-Friendly: The familiar sweet and tangy sauce is a surefire hit with even the pickiest eaters.
- Customizable: Adjust the spices to your liking and add your favorite toppings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The pulled chicken and sauce can be made in advance for easy meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken:
- 2 lbs cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- Sloppy Joe Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- For Serving:
- Hamburger buns
- Your favorite Sloppy Joe toppings (see suggestions below!)
Instructions:
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until slightly softened.
- Build the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, chili powder, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Incorporate the Chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the Sloppy Chicken mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more chili powder for heat, brown sugar for sweetness, or salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and Enjoy! Spoon the Pulled Chicken Sloppy Joe mixture onto hamburger buns and top with your favorite toppings.
Topping Ideas to Elevate Your Sloppy Chickens:
- Classic: Coleslaw, sliced dill pickles, shredded cheddar cheese
- Spicy: Pickled jalapenos, sriracha mayo, pepper jack cheese
- Fresh: Avocado slices, chopped cilantro, red onion
- Creamy: Sour cream, guacamole
Tips and Tricks for Sloppy Chicken Success:
- Prep Ahead: Shred the chicken and chop the vegetables in advance to save time.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor.
- Slow Cooker Option: For an even easier version, combine all the ingredients (except the buns) in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken with two forks before serving.
- Freezer Friendly: Leftover Sloppy Chicken mixture can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before reheating.
Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: ~350
- Protein: ~35g
- Fat: ~10g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
(Note: Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
Final Thoughts:
These Pulled Chicken Sloppy Joes, or Sloppy Chickens, are a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite. They’re easy to make, customizable, and a fun way to enjoy a classic dish with a lighter twist. So, ditch the beef and embrace the bird! Happy cooking (and eating)!
Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know what you think of this recipe! What are your favorite Sloppy Joe toppings? I’d love to hear from you!