Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes
A lighter take on the classic sloppy joe, using ground chicken for lean protein, a savory tomato-based sauce, and a touch of sweetness. This version comes together quickly for busy weeknights and pairs beautifully with toasted buns, crunchy pickles, or a simple side salad.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey (optional)}
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- to taste salt and black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns or sandwich rolls
- to taste toppings: pickles, sliced onions, shredded lettuce, cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it into small crumbles, until it’s no longer pink and starting to brown, about 5–6 minutes.
- Push the meat to the side of the pan, add a splash of oil if the pan is dry, and sauté the onions until they’re soft and translucent, about 2–3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar or honey (if using), cider vinegar or Worcestershire, smoked paprika, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens a bit.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce seems too thick, splash in a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Toast or warm the hamburger buns briefly in a separate pan or toaster oven. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the buns, add toppings if you like, and serve hot.