Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe
Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes are a fun, flavorful twist on the classic sloppy joe sandwich! Made with lean ground chicken, a savory-sweet sloppy joe sauce, and loads of melted cheese, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether you go with mozzarella for gooeyness or cheddar for sharpness, this dish delivers on flavor and comfort every time!
Equipment
- Large Skillet – for cooking the chicken and sauce
- Mixing Spoon or Spatula – to break up the chicken and stir the sauce
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – for accurate ingredient portions.
- Toaster or Skillet – for toasting the buns
Ingredients
- For the Chicken Mixture:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 ½ pounds ground chicken thigh or breast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon chili powder optional, for heat
- For the Sloppy Joe Sauce:
- 1 cup ketchup
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup chicken broth or water if needed
- For the Cheesy Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- Optional: Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or Pepper Jack for extra flavor
- For Serving:
- 4-6 brioche or potato buns toasted
- Butter for toasting buns (optional
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken Mixture
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent (5-6 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add ground chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked (6-8 minutes), breaking it up as it cooks.
- Season with salt, pepper, and chili powder (if using).
- Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce
- Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Mix well and let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken.
- If the mixture looks too thick, add ¼ cup of chicken broth or water.
- Add the Cheese
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the chicken mixture.
- Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for 1-2 minutes.
- Assemble and Serve
- Toast the buns in a separate skillet with a little butter (optional).
- Scoop the cheesy chicken mixture onto the toasted buns.
- Serve hot and enjoy the melty, saucy goodness!
Notes
Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.
BBQ Version: Swap ketchup for barbecue sauce and add a pinch of smoked paprika.
Healthier Option: Use ground chicken breast, reduce sugar, and serve on lettuce wraps.
Make-Ahead Tip: Store chicken mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
BBQ Version: Swap ketchup for barbecue sauce and add a pinch of smoked paprika.
Healthier Option: Use ground chicken breast, reduce sugar, and serve on lettuce wraps.
Make-Ahead Tip: Store chicken mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.