Easy Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes
If you’re craving a comfort food classic but want something a little lighter, these easy ground chicken sloppy joes are the perfect solution. They’re saucy, savory, and packed with flavor, yet made with lean ground chicken instead of beef for a healthier twist.
This recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Pair it with soft brioche buns, a simple salad, or even sweet potato fries for a wholesome family-friendly meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 pound ground chicken
- ½ medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, finely diced
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup water (add more if needed)
- 4–6 brioche buns, toasted
How to Make Easy Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes
Step 1: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken, onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking up the chicken with a spatula, until no longer pink.
Step 2: Add the Sauce Ingredients
Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, tomato paste, chili powder, and salt. Mix well so the chicken and veggies are evenly coated.
Step 3: Simmer the Mixture
Pour in the water and stir again. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors blend.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
While the chicken simmers, lightly toast brioche buns in the oven or on a griddle with a bit of butter.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Spoon the chicken sloppy joe mixture onto the toasted buns, top with the other half of the bun, and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Chicken Sloppy Joes
- Make it spicy: Add extra chili powder, cayenne, or hot sauce for a kick.
- Healthier option: Use whole wheat buns or lettuce wraps instead of brioche.
- Meal prep friendly: The filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezer-friendly: Store cooled filling in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat when ready to serve.
- Switch it up: Ground turkey, beef, or even plant-based meat substitutes all work with this recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe
- Ready in just 30 minutes
- Made with lean ground chicken for a lighter version
- Saucy, flavorful, and family-approved
- Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly
- Perfect for quick weeknight dinners
Conclusion
These easy ground chicken sloppy joes are a tasty twist on the traditional recipe, offering all the classic sloppy joe flavors in a lighter, healthier version. The combination of tender chicken, tangy sauce, and toasted buns makes this meal hearty and satisfying without being heavy.
Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping ahead, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep on repeat. Pair it with a crisp salad, roasted veggies, or fries, and you’ve got a complete, delicious meal in no time.
