When you think of comfort food, Sloppy Joes likely come to mind—juicy, flavorful, and wonderfully messy. But what if we told you that you could give this classic dish a delicious twist by swapping the traditional beef for tender, shredded chicken? 

Pulled Chicken Sloppy Joes (Sloppy Chickens)


Enter Pulled Chicken Sloppy Joes, affectionately known as Sloppy Chickens—a lighter yet equally satisfying take on the beloved sandwich. Packed with smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, backyard barbecues, or even meal prepping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthier Alternative: Chicken is leaner than beef, making this a great option for those looking for a healthier Sloppy Joe alternative.

  • Quick & Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.

  • Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and savory combination of flavors.

  • Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well and makes for great leftovers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pulled Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken)

  • 1 cup chicken broth (for cooking, if using raw chicken)

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sloppy Joe Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • ½ cup finely chopped onion

  • ½ cup finely chopped bell pepper (optional, for added crunch)

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup tomato sauce

  • ¼ cup ketchup

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra kick)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving:

  • 4 sandwich buns (brioche or hamburger buns work well)

  • Coleslaw (optional, for topping)

  • Pickles (optional, for extra crunch)

  • Shredded cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook and Shred the Chicken

If using raw chicken, place the chicken breasts in a saucepan with chicken broth and seasonings (smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper). Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and shred it using two forks. If using pre-cooked shredded chicken, skip this step and move to the sauce preparation.

2. Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until soft (about 3-4 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

3. Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Add the shredded chicken to the skillet with the sauce, stirring well to coat. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to absorb all the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Assemble and Serve

Toast the sandwich buns lightly for extra texture. Spoon a generous amount of the pulled chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with coleslaw, pickles, or shredded cheese if desired. Place the top bun and serve immediately with a side of fries, chips, or a fresh salad.

Tips for the Best Sloppy Chickens

  • Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken—just shred it and add it to the sauce.

  • Make It Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

  • Let It Simmer: The longer the chicken sits in the sauce, the more flavorful it becomes.

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free buns or serve over rice or a baked potato.

FAQs

1. Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?

Yes! Add raw chicken, seasonings, onions, bell peppers, and sauce ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Shred the chicken and stir it back into the sauce before serving.

2. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Just cook them until tender and shred them the same way as breasts.

3. How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

Store leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

4. Can I Freeze This Recipe?

Yes! Freeze the pulled chicken mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.

5. What Are Some Side Dishes That Pair Well?

This dish goes great with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, potato salad, or a fresh green salad.

Final Thoughts

Pulled Chicken Sloppy Joes, or Sloppy Chickens, are a fun and delicious twist on a classic dish. Whether you're looking for a healthier alternative, an easy meal prep idea, or just something new to try, this recipe has you covered. Give it a go and watch it become a new family favorite!

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