Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough that it shimmers. This is crucial as it will help brown the ground chicken. When you add the meat, listen for that satisfying sizzle.
- Once the oil is hot, add the ground chicken and kosher salt to the skillet. Using a wooden spoon, break the meat apart. Cook it until it’s no longer pink, about five to seven minutes. Look for a nice golden brown color, which adds flavor.
- Next, stir in the diced onion, green bell pepper, and garlic. You’ll want to sauté these for about two to three minutes until they soften. The colors should brighten up, and your kitchen will fill with an aromatic scent!
- Now it’s time to add the spices. Sprinkle in the chili powder and mix everything well. This is where the dish starts to come alive. The heat from the chili powder will blend beautifully with the other flavors.
- Pour in the ketchup, mustard, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir until everything is combined. The sauce should be thick yet pourable, so if it seems too thick, add a little more water.
- Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Allow the mixture to simmer for about ten minutes. This step is essential as it lets the flavors meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally; you’ll notice the sauce thickening up.
- After simmering, it’s time to taste. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt if desired. You want the filling to be well-seasoned and bursting with flavor.
- Finally, serve the chicken mixture on hamburger buns. You can dress them with slaw and pickles if you like, or keep it classic. Either way, they’re sure to be a hit!
Notes
Here are some tips to keep in mind when making your Chicken Sloppy Joes. These will help you perfect the dish and adapt it to your liking.
- Storage: After cooking, store leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the filling in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
- Pairing: These Sloppy Joes pair wonderfully with a side of crispy fries or a fresh garden salad.
- Customization: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or diced jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
- Serving Size: Adjust the filling based on how many buns you have. It’s easy to double or halve the recipe as needed.