cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes

Chef Ellie

Looking for quick and delicious cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes? Try this easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners and family meals!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 slices

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

1 lb ground chicken – Lean ground chicken is the perfect base for this healthier take on the classic sloppy Joe. It’s tender flavorful, and easy to cook through.
1 cup shredded cheese – You can use any cheese you prefer! Cheddar mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little extra kick. The cheese adds that gooey, creamy texture we all love.
1/2 cup onion finely chopped – Onions bring a savory sweetness to the mix. Sauté them until they're golden and tender for the best flavor.
1/2 cup bell pepper chopped – Adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color to the sloppy Joes. Green or red peppers work beautifully.
1 cup tomato sauce – A rich tangy base that ties everything together. You can also swap it for a jar of your favorite marinara sauce for extra flavor.
1/4 cup barbecue sauce – This gives the sloppy Joes a sweet and smoky twist. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth and a savory umami flavor that enhances the overall dish.
2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the veggies and ensuring the chicken doesn’t stick.
Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning and you can always add more as you go along.
4 sandwich buns – Choose soft hearty buns that will hold up to the cheesy filling. Toast them lightly if you prefer a little crunch.

Optional Toppings:

Pickles – If you like a tangy bite sliced pickles are a great addition.
Lettuce – Add a little crunch and freshness with a few leaves of crisp lettuce.
Sliced jalapeños – For those who love a spicy kick these are a fantastic way to heat things up.

Instructions

Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by chopping the onion, bell pepper, and any other veggies or toppings you plan to use. It’s always helpful to have everything prepped and ready before you begin cooking.
Sauté the Veggies:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and slightly caramelized.
Cook the Ground Chicken:
Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet, and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the chicken is fully browned and no longer pink.
Add the sauces and seasonings.
Stir in the tomato sauce, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything together, ensuring the chicken and veggies are well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Melt the cheese:
Once the sauce has thickened slightly, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey.
Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
While the cheesy chicken mixture is cooking, toast your sandwich buns lightly. This adds a bit of crunch and helps them hold up to the saucy filling.
Spoon the cheesy chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. If you like, top with any extra toppings like pickles, lettuce, or jalapeños for an extra layer of flavor.
Serve and Enjoy:
Place the top half of the bun on your cheesy chicken sloppy Joe, and it’s ready to serve! Pair with your favorite side dish, like crispy fries or a fresh salad, and enjoy a comforting, cheesy meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):