Sloppy Joes have long been a favorite comfort food, known for their saucy, savory, and slightly sweet flavor. But if you’re looking for a delicious twist on the traditional beef version, Pulled Chicken Sloppy Joes—or as we like to call them, Sloppy Chickens—are the perfect option. This recipe combines tender, shredded chicken with a rich, tangy sauce that’s packed with bold flavors. Whether you’re preparing a quick family dinner, a game-day meal, or a backyard barbecue dish, these Sloppy Chickens are sure to be a hit.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the history of Sloppy Joes, why this pulled chicken version is a fantastic alternative, step-by-step instructions for making the perfect batch, expert cooking tips, variations, and serving suggestions. By the end, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to create a meal that’s not only mouthwatering but also easy to prepare.
The History of Sloppy Joes: A Beloved Classic
The origin of Sloppy Joes is somewhat debated, but many food historians trace it back to the early 20th century. Some believe it started in the U.S. as a way to stretch ground beef by mixing it with a tomato-based sauce. Others say it originated from a sandwich shop in Sioux City, Iowa, where a cook named Joe added tomato sauce to a loose meat sandwich.
Over the years, Sloppy Joes have been a staple in school cafeterias, home kitchens, and diners across the country. The appeal lies in its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and messy-but-fun eating experience. While the traditional recipe uses ground beef, pulled chicken is an excellent alternative that brings a lighter texture while still delivering that signature Sloppy Joe taste.
Why You’ll Love These Pulled Chicken Sloppy Joes (Sloppy Chickens)
- Lighter Alternative to Beef: Pulled chicken is leaner than ground beef, making it a great option for those looking for a healthier meal.
- Packed with Flavor: A combination of spices, tangy barbecue sauce, and a hint of sweetness makes these sandwiches irresistible.
- Great for Meal Prep: You can make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
- Perfect for Feeding a Crowd: Whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard gathering, this dish is easy to scale up.
- Kid-Friendly: The sweet and savory sauce is a hit with kids, and the shredded chicken makes it easier to eat than the traditional beef version.
Ingredients for Pulled Chicken Sloppy Joes
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 3-4 small ones)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sloppy Joe Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped (red, yellow, or green)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or honey)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (your favorite variety)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup chicken broth (or water)
For Serving:
- 6 hamburger buns (or brioche buns for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for toasting buns, optional)
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
- Pickles (optional, for extra tang)
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Pulled Chicken Sloppy Joes
Step 1: Cook and Shred the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts in a large pot or slow cooker.
- Add the chicken broth, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and easily shreds with a fork.
- Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce
- Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, and chili powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes to develop flavor.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Simmer and Combine the Chicken
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the shredded chicken, stirring to coat it evenly with the sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Toast the Buns
- Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Brush the inside of each bun with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Toast the buns for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
- Spoon a generous amount of pulled chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.
- Top with coleslaw or pickles if desired.
- Place the top bun on and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair these Sloppy Chickens with French fries, sweet potato fries, or a fresh side salad.
- Beverage Pairing: Serve with iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp beer.
- Topping Ideas: Try melted cheese, sliced jalapeños, or crispy onion strings for extra flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Buffalo-Style Sloppy Chickens: Add ¼ cup Buffalo sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Tex-Mex Version: Stir in ½ teaspoon cumin and ½ cup black beans for a Southwestern flair.
- Healthier Option: Use whole wheat buns or serve over lettuce wraps for a low-carb meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying out.
Final Thoughts
Pulled Chicken Sloppy Joes, or Sloppy Chickens, are a fun and flavorful twist on a beloved classic. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, this dish is easy, delicious, and guaranteed to please a crowd.
Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! If you enjoyed it, check out more comfort food recipes on recipesman for your next cooking adventure.