Easy Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, look no further than these Easy Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes. This dish is not only simple to prepare, but it also packs a flavorful punch that will have everyone asking for seconds. With tender ground chicken simmered in a tangy sauce and served on soft hamburger buns, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Say goodbye to boring dinners and hello to a comforting classic that’s ready in no time!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

These Easy Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes are a game-changer for several reasons. First, they’re incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences, making them a go-to meal for any occasion. Second, ground chicken is a leaner option compared to traditional ground beef, providing a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. Lastly, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those evenings when time is of the essence but you still want to serve something homemade and satisfying.

What You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chili sauce or ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 4 hamburger buns

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Large skillet: For cooking the ground chicken and sauce together.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: To stir the mixture as it cooks.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
• Serving plates: For plating up those delicious Sloppy Joes.

Method: Easy Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Cook the Onion

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your Sloppy Joes.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Add the ground chicken to the skillet with the onions. Use your spatula to break it apart as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink.

Step 3: Add the Sauce Ingredients

Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the chili sauce or ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix everything well to ensure the chicken is coated in the sauce.

Step 4: Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

While the chicken mixture is simmering, lightly toast the hamburger buns in a toaster or on a skillet. This adds a nice crunch and prevents the buns from becoming soggy.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Once the chicken mixture is ready, spoon it generously onto the toasted hamburger buns. Serve immediately, and enjoy your Easy Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes!

Smart Substitutions

• Ground turkey or beef: If you prefer a different meat, feel free to substitute ground turkey or beef for the chicken.
• BBQ sauce: For a smoky twist, use BBQ sauce instead of chili sauce or ketchup.
• Bell peppers: Add chopped bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
• Honey: Replace brown sugar with honey for a natural sweetener.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken: Ensure you cook the chicken just until no longer pink to keep it tender.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste the sauce mixture before serving and adjust the seasonings to your preference.
• Using stale buns: Always use fresh buns to enhance the texture and taste of the Sloppy Joes.
• Rushing the simmering step: Allow enough time for the mixture to simmer; this is essential for flavor development.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Leftover Easy Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quick option, but be sure to stir occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving on the day of.

What can I serve with Sloppy Joes?

Sloppy Joes pair well with a variety of sides such as coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Is this a kid-friendly recipe?

Yes! The flavors are mild and appealing to children, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Definitely! You can add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños to the mixture for an extra kick.

Cook This Next

• Best Burger Recipe
• Easy Chicken Tacos
• Vegan Chili
• Best Chili Recipe

Let’s Eat

With the comforting flavors of Easy Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes, this meal is sure to become a staple in your household. It’s quick, delicious, and satisfying—everything you could want in a weeknight dinner. Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to dig into this delightful dish. Happy cooking!