Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, this ground chicken sloppy joe recipe is the perfect solution. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, it’s a great way to switch up your weeknight dinners. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a hearty and satisfying dish that’s sure to please.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup diced onion
1 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4-6 hamburger buns
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Enjoy your flavorful ground chicken sloppy joes, perfect for a casual meal or serving at a gathering!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook Chicken and Onion
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground chicken and diced onion until the chicken is no longer pink and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Drain Excess Fat
Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Step 3: Prepare Sauce Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together the ketchup, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Sauce with Chicken
Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked chicken and onions in the skillet.
Step 5: Simmer Mixture
Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 6: Reduce Heat and Thicken Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 7: Toast Hamburger Buns
Toast the hamburger buns if desired.
Step 8: Serve
Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the buns and serve immediately.
Notes
Cooking Tips
For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with pickles or coleslaw on the side for added texture and flavor.
Storage Information
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving again.
Cook techniques
Ground Chicken Cooking
In a large skillet, use medium-high heat to cook ground chicken for even browning. Ensure that it is thoroughly cooked, with no pink remaining, and that the onions have become translucent.
Draining Excess Fat
After cooking the chicken, drain any excess fat by tilting the skillet slightly and using a spoon or ladle to remove it, ensuring a leaner final dish.
Making the Sauce
Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth and well blended. This sauce adds a rich flavor to the chicken mixture.
Simmering for Flavor
Pour the sauce over the chicken and onions, then bring to a simmer. Reducing the heat to low allows the flavors to meld while thickening the sauce.
Toasting the Buns
To enhance the texture and flavor, toast the hamburger buns in a skillet or oven briefly, adding a slight crispiness.
Serving the Sloppy Joes
Spoon the hearty chicken mixture onto the toasted buns immediately after preparation to serve warm and fresh.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, beef, or even a plant-based protein for a different flavor or dietary preference.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To increase the heat, add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture according to your taste preference.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the chicken mixture ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it when ready to serve.
What sides pair well with Sloppy Joes?
Coleslaw, potato chips, or a simple side salad complement Sloppy Joes nicely.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Conclusion
This delicious ground chicken sloppy joe recipe is an easy and satisfying meal that brings classic flavors to your dinner table. The combination of tangy sauce and savory chicken makes it a perfect choice for a casual family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal, and enjoy the delightful taste of homemade comfort food.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Sloppy Joes
Substitute the ground chicken with lentils or black beans, and follow the same sauce preparation for a hearty vegetarian option.
BBQ Chicken Sloppy Joes
Replace the ketchup and mustard in the sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky twist on the classic recipe.
Buffalo Chicken Sloppy Joes
Add buffalo sauce into the mixture for a spicy kick, and serve with blue cheese dressing on the side for extra flavor.
Asian-Inspired Sloppy Joes
Incorporate soy sauce and ginger into the sauce mixture, and serve on steamed bao buns for a fun fusion twist.
Cheesy Sloppy Joes
Top the sloppy joe mixture with shredded cheese and let it melt before serving for a gooey, cheesy delight.
Sloppy Joe Salad
Serve the sloppy joe mixture over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter, salad version of the classic dish.
Sloppy Joe Tacos
Use the sloppy joe mixture as a filling for taco shells and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheese for a fun taco night.
