What’s better than a classic sloppy joe? A Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joe! Imagine tender ground chicken simmered in a rich, savory sauce, topped with melted cheese, and served on a soft, toasted bun. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor—everything you could want in an easy weeknight dinner.
I still remember the first time I made this recipe. My family was skeptical—after all, sloppy joes are usually made with beef. But the moment they took the first bite, their doubts vanished! The cheesy, tangy, and slightly smoky flavors had everyone going back for seconds.
What makes this dish special? It’s a quick, one-pan meal that comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights! Plus, it’s a budget-friendly alternative to takeout or store-bought sloppy joe mixes. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a casual gathering, or just because you’re craving something hearty, this dish never disappoints.
If you love my Classic Sloppy Joes or Buffalo Chicken Sliders, you’ll adore this version. The combination of ground chicken, gooey cheese, and tangy sauce takes sloppy joes to a whole new level. So, let’s get cooking and make this family-friendly favorite together!
What is a Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joe?
Ever wondered why it’s called a Sloppy Joe? Well, legend has it that a cook named Joe from Iowa started serving loose meat sandwiches with a tomato-based sauce, and the name just stuck! But here’s the twist—we’re swapping the beef for juicy ground chicken and adding loads of melty cheese for an extra indulgent touch.
Why cheesy? Because cheese makes everything better, right? Whether it’s cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little kick, that melted goodness binds everything together in the most delicious way.
They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and I’d argue this recipe is proof! One bite of these cheesy, saucy sandwiches, and you’ll have everyone hooked. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your skillet, and let’s make magic in the kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joe
Easy & Quick – Ready in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients!
Budget-Friendly – A delicious homemade meal that costs a fraction of takeout.
Family-Approved – Kids and adults alike LOVE the cheesy goodness.
Customizable – Swap out ingredients to match your taste preferences.
The best part? You can easily switch it up by adding crispy bacon, jalapeños, or even a fried egg for an extra layer of flavor! If you loved my BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches, this recipe will be your new go-to!
So, let’s dive into how to make these cheesy, messy, and oh-so-satisfying sloppy joes at home.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes
Quick Overview
This recipe is super simple and requires just one pan! The juicy chicken simmers in a tangy, slightly sweet sauce, and the cheese melts right into the mix for a luscious, gooey texture. From start to finish, it takes only 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal!
Key Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella for extra gooeyness!)
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft (about 3 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Cook the Chicken
Add ground chicken to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully browned (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce
Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.
4. Melt the Cheese
Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheese until fully melted and combined.
5. Toast the Buns
Melt butter in a separate pan and toast hamburger buns until golden brown.
6. Assemble & Serve
Spoon the cheesy chicken mixture onto the toasted buns, top with extra cheese (if desired), and serve hot!
What to Serve Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes With
Crispy French Fries – Because who doesn’t love fries with a sandwich?
Coleslaw – Adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness.
Pickles – A tangy contrast to the cheesy, savory filling.
Sweet Potato Fries – A slightly healthier alternative to regular fries.
Top Tips for Perfecting Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes
Use Fresh Buns – Soft, toasted brioche or potato buns work best.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken – It should be juicy, not dry.
Choose the Right Cheese – Cheddar for classic flavor, or pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Let the Sauce Thicken – A few minutes of simmering helps develop flavor.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Freezing:
- Let the filling cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes are the ultimate comfort food—easy to make, packed with flavor, and absolutely satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.
So, why not give it a try tonight? Your taste buds will thank you!
Love this recipe? Be sure to check out my Buffalo Chicken Sliders and BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches for more delicious sandwich ideas!