Simple Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes for a Quick and Tasty Dinner

Imagine biting into a warm, toasted bun filled with juicy, cheesy chicken goodness—creamy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. If that sounds like the kind of meal your family would love, then these Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes are about to become your new go-to dinner!

Sloppy Joes are a timeless classic, but this version adds a fun twist by swapping out the traditional beef for tender, seasoned chicken, smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce. Not only is this dish irresistibly delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients and 20 minutes, you’ll have a meal that tastes like comfort on a plate.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, picky eaters, or when you just want a meal that feels indulgent but requires minimal effort. It’s the ultimate one-pan wonder—less mess, more flavor! If you’ve loved our Classic Sloppy Joes or Buffalo Chicken Sliders, this recipe will be a game-changer in your meal rotation.

So, whether you’re cooking for a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something hearty and cheesy, these Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes are the answer. Get ready to impress your taste buds!

What are Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes?

A delicious Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joe on a sesame seed bun, filled with creamy, seasoned ground chicken, served on a wooden board with cheese and celery on the side.

Ever wondered why Sloppy Joes got their name? Well, it’s pretty straightforward—because they’re deliciously messy! And adding cheesy chicken to the mix makes them even sloppier (and tastier!).

Think about it: A creamy, savory filling loaded into soft buns, practically begging to be devoured. And let’s be honest, no one eats a Sloppy Joe neatly, right? But as the saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and we’d argue that this dish wins over everyone—men, women, and kids alike!

So, why not grab a napkin, embrace the mess, and give this recipe a try? We promise it’ll be worth every cheesy bite!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe

  1. Quick & Easy: You only need 20 minutes to whip up this delicious meal—perfect for those hectic weeknights.
  2. Budget-Friendly: Making these at home costs way less than takeout, and you can feed the whole family for a fraction of the price.
  3. Super Cheesy & Flavorful: The combination of melty cheese, tender chicken, and a tangy sauce makes each bite absolutely mouthwatering.

If you loved our BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders, you’ll adore this recipe! Try it out and let us know what you think.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes

A sloppy joe sandwich with a creamy, seasoned ground meat filling on a soft sesame seed bun, served on parchment paper over a wooden board.

Quick Overview

These Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes are a simple one-pan meal that’s hearty, satisfying, and full of rich flavors. With shredded chicken, a creamy cheese sauce, and toasted buns, this dish is both effortless and indulgent. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner solution!

Key Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes

  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced (optional for extra flavor)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp mustard
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese
  • 4 hamburger buns (toasted)
  • Butter for toasting buns

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Sauté the Veggies: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  2. Add the Chicken & Sauce: Stir in the shredded chicken, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. Make it Cheesy: Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and cream cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce. Let the mixture thicken slightly.
  4. Toast the Buns: Butter the buns and toast them in a pan until golden brown.
  5. Assemble & Serve: Scoop the cheesy chicken mixture onto each bun and serve immediately.

What to Serve Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes With

These Sloppy Joes pair perfectly with:

  • Crispy French fries – because who doesn’t love fries with a sandwich?
  • Coleslaw – adds a refreshing crunch to balance out the richness.
  • Pickles – for that extra tangy bite!
  • Sweet potato fries – a slightly healthier but equally delicious side.

Top Tips for Perfecting Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes

: A sloppy joe sandwich with a soft bun and a generous portion of seasoned ground meat in a rich, creamy sauce, served on a white plate with a lime wedge on the side.
  1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: Speeds up the process and keeps the dish super easy!
  2. Go Extra Cheesy: Add a slice of provolone or American cheese on top for a gooey finish.
  3. Toast the Buns: It prevents them from getting soggy and adds a nice crunch.
  4. Adjust the Heat: Love spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them fresh!

Storage:

  • Store the chicken mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months (just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating).

Reheating:

  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
  • Stovetop: Warm in a pan over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
  • Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes are the ultimate comfort food—quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding your family or looking for a simple meal that delivers big on taste, this recipe is a must-try.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy every cheesy, messy, and delicious bite! Let us know in the comments if you tried it and what you paired it with. Happy cooking!