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Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe

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3.9 from 22 reviews

This Chicken Sloppy Joes recipe offers a flavorful twist on the classic sloppy joe sandwich using ground chicken, smoky Poblano peppers, and a blend of aromatic Mexican spices. Simmered in a tangy tomato sauce with a hint of sweetness and spice, these sloppy joes make a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Meat and Vegetables

  • 2 tablespoons canola oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 medium Poblano peppers, seeded and chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 pounds ground chicken (or turkey, white meat, dark meat, or a combination)

Spices and Sauces

  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
  • 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
  • 1 can (15-ounce) tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Serving

  • Hamburger buns
  • Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Corn chips (optional)
  • Pickled jalapeno peppers (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil: Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
  2. Sauté onions: Add the chopped onion, reduce the heat to medium, and cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion begins to soften and becomes translucent.
  3. Add Poblano peppers: Stir in the seeded and chopped Poblano peppers and continue cooking over medium heat for another 3-4 minutes until both onions and peppers are soft.
  4. Add garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook briefly for 10-15 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
  5. Brown the chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet, increase heat to medium-high, and cook until browned with no pink remaining, breaking it up as it cooks.
  6. Season with spices: Add chili powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, and Mexican oregano, stirring well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
  7. Add liquids and sweetener: Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
  8. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld.
  9. Season to taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference to enhance the flavor.
  10. Serve: Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto hamburger buns and top with optional shredded cheddar cheese, corn chips, or pickled jalapeno peppers as desired for added texture and heat.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey if preferred for a leaner option.
  • Seed the Poblano peppers to reduce heat; leave seeds in if you like it spicier.
  • Serve with your choice of sides such as coleslaw, potato chips, or a fresh salad to round out the meal.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
  • Adjust seasoning and spice level to your taste by modifying chili powder and jalapeno additions.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American