If you love the comforting flavor of sloppy joes but are looking for a lighter, healthier option, these Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes are the perfect solution!

Packed with lean protein and bursting with bold flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite without the guilt.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner, this recipe offers a healthier twist on the traditional classic without sacrificing taste.

Why Choose Ground Chicken for Your Sloppy Joes?

Ground chicken is an excellent alternative to ground beef when you’re looking to cut down on fat and calories without losing that rich, savory flavor.

Not only is it a leaner protein, but it also allows the bold spices and tangy sauce in your sloppy joes to shine.

Here’s a quick comparison of the benefits:

• Lower Fat: Ground chicken has significantly less fat than ground beef, making it a great option for a lighter meal.
• Lean Protein: Packed with protein, ground chicken helps keep you full and satisfied.
• Fewer Calories: Enjoy your sloppy joes guilt-free with fewer calories per serving compared to traditional beef recipes.

Ingredients for the Perfect Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes

This recipe is simple, delicious, and uses ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb lean ground chicken
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce (look for low-sugar options)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Whole wheat buns or gluten-free buns for serving

Variations: Customize Your Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes

One of the best things about this Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes recipe is how versatile it is.

Whether you want to sneak in more vegetables, cater to dietary restrictions, or spice things up a bit, here are some creative variations to try:

1. Sneak in More Veggies

• Bell Peppers: Finely diced red, yellow, or green bell peppers can be sautéed with the onions and garlic to add a pop of color and a slightly sweet, crisp texture. This is a great way to sneak in more vegetables and boost the nutritional value of the dish.
• Mushrooms: Finely chopped mushrooms blend perfectly with ground chicken, adding an earthy flavor and moisture to the dish. Mushrooms are a fantastic low-calorie way to bulk up the meal without adding extra fat or calories.
• Zucchini: Shredded zucchini can be mixed into the sauce for extra moisture and nutrients. It’s almost undetectable but adds to the texture and keeps the mixture juicy.
• Spinach: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach at the end of cooking for a nutrient boost without altering the flavor too much. Spinach wilts quickly and blends into the sauce, providing extra iron and vitamins.

2. Spice It Up

• Jalapeños: If you like a little heat, finely dice a jalapeño and sauté it with the onions. You can also add sliced pickled jalapeños as a topping for an extra kick.
• Cayenne Pepper: For those who love spicy food, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a more intense, fiery flavor. Adjust the amount depending on your heat tolerance.
• Chipotle Peppers in Adobo: Adding a spoonful of chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce gives the sloppy joes a smoky, spicy depth of flavor. It’s perfect if you want to transform your sloppy joes into a smoky, Southwest-inspired dish.

3. Make It Gluten-Free

• Gluten-Free Buns: Opt for gluten-free buns to accommodate gluten sensitivities. You can easily find high-quality gluten-free buns that will still provide that satisfying, soft texture.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb or keto-friendly option, serve the sloppy joe mixture in large lettuce leaves (like butter lettuce or romaine). This adds a crisp, refreshing element to the meal without the carbs from traditional buns.
• Cauliflower Rice: Instead of serving the sloppy joe mixture on buns, spoon it over a bed of cauliflower rice for a gluten-free, grain-free option. It’s an excellent way to add more vegetables to the meal while keeping it light.

4. Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Options

• Portobello Mushroom Caps: Use grilled or baked portobello mushroom caps as a substitute for buns. Their meaty texture works beautifully with the ground chicken filling and adds a delicious, umami flavor.
• Zucchini Boats: Hollow out zucchini halves and roast them until tender, then spoon the sloppy joe mixture into the zucchini “boats” for a fun, low-carb way to enjoy this dish.

5. Sweet and Savory Flavor Twist

• BBQ Sloppy Joes: Add your favorite barbecue sauce to the mixture in place of tomato sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor profile. This variation gives the dish a unique Southern-inspired twist and pairs perfectly with coleslaw on the side.
• Teriyaki Sloppy Joes: For an Asian-inspired twist, replace the Worcestershire sauce with low-sodium soy sauce, and add a touch of ginger and honey for a teriyaki-flavored sloppy joe. Serve it over steamed rice or in lettuce wraps to complete the theme.
• Honey-Mustard Variation: Add a tablespoon of honey and an extra tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce to create a sweet and tangy honey-mustard flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory ground chicken.

6. Kid-Friendly Adjustments

• Less Spice: If you’re making this for young kids or picky eaters, reduce or omit the chili powder and paprika for a milder flavor.
• Serve with Sliders: Use smaller slider buns for a fun, kid-sized version of sloppy joes. Kids love these mini versions, and they make for a great party food or snack.
• Cheese Topping: Top each serving with a slice of cheddar cheese or mozzarella. Melt the cheese under the broiler for a couple of minutes for an extra cheesy, indulgent touch that kids will love.

7. Vegetarian or Vegan Version

• Meatless Crumbles: Swap out the ground chicken for plant-based meat crumbles made from soy or pea protein for a vegan version of this recipe. Season it the same way, and you won’t miss the meat!
• Lentils: Cooked lentils can also be used in place of ground chicken for a high-protein, fiber-rich vegetarian version. Lentils absorb flavors well and offer a satisfying, hearty texture.

8. Add Toppings for Extra Flavor and Texture

• Pickles: Top your sloppy joes with crunchy dill pickles or bread-and-butter pickles for a tangy contrast.
• Coleslaw: A dollop of creamy coleslaw on top of the sloppy joe mixture adds a cool, crunchy element that pairs perfectly with the rich sauce.
• Avocado Slices: Add slices of ripe avocado for a creamy, mild topping that enhances the flavors and provides healthy fats.

With these variations, you can tailor the recipe to your dietary preferences, spice tolerance, and even level of creativity in the kitchen.

Whether you’re looking to make it low-carb, vegan, or just add more flavor, there’s a variation here for everyone to enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes

Here’s how to make this delicious and healthier version of sloppy joes:

1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Cook the Ground Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili powder. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink.
3. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar or honey. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the cooked chicken.
4. Simmer and Thicken: Let the mixture simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Assemble: Serve the sloppy joe mixture on toasted whole wheat buns or in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. You can also serve this over baked potatoes or rice for something different!

Serving Suggestions for Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes

Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes are not only delicious and healthier, but they also pair well with a wide variety of side dishes.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or making a quick weeknight meal, these serving suggestions will help you elevate your meal to the next level.

Here are some creative ways to serve this dish alongside complementary sides:

1. Classic Comfort Food Pairings

• Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet potato fries provide a sweet and savory contrast to the tangy, flavorful sloppy joes. For an even healthier twist, bake the fries in the oven or air fryer until crispy. A light dusting of paprika or garlic powder adds extra flavor.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw pairs perfectly with sloppy joes. Its cool, crunchy texture complements the richness of the ground chicken mixture. For a healthier option, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the dressing.
• Corn on the Cob: Serve fresh or grilled corn on the cob as a side. Lightly brush the corn with butter or olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika for a smoky flavor that goes well with the sloppy joes.
• Pickle Spears: The tanginess of pickles cuts through the richness of the sloppy joe mixture. Classic dill pickle spears or bread-and-butter pickles are ideal. You can even serve homemade pickles for a more gourmet touch.

2. Lighter Side Options

• Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing green salad is a great way to lighten up your meal. Choose mixed greens, spinach, or arugula and toss with a simple vinaigrette. Add sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and avocado for extra texture and flavor. This balance of fresh greens with the hearty sloppy joes makes for a perfect meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower provide a tasty, nutritious side to go along with your sloppy joes. Simply toss the vegetables in olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and roast in the oven until caramelized. The natural sweetness of roasted veggies enhances the flavor of the savory chicken.
• Grilled Asparagus: Asparagus is quick to grill and adds a fresh, slightly smoky flavor to the meal. A squeeze of lemon juice over the grilled asparagus enhances its taste and complements the tangy sauce in the sloppy joes.

3. Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Alternatives

• Lettuce Wraps: If you’re watching your carb intake, serve the ground chicken sloppy joe mixture in large lettuce leaves. Butter lettuce or romaine works well as a crunchy, low-carb alternative to traditional buns. Add toppings like avocado or shredded cheese for more flavor.
• Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb twist on a classic comfort side, serve the sloppy joe mixture over cauliflower mash instead of buns. The creamy, buttery flavor of the mash pairs perfectly with the savory ground chicken sauce.
• Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Swap out buns for zucchini noodles to keep things light and low-carb. Zoodles offer a healthy, fresh-tasting base for the sloppy joe mixture, and they can be quickly sautéed or served raw for extra crunch.

4. Creative Ways to Serve the Sloppy Joe Mixture

• Baked Potatoes: For a hearty, filling meal, serve the sloppy joe mixture on top of baked potatoes. The fluffy potato interior soaks up the flavorful sauce, and it’s a perfect way to add a starchy element to the meal. You can use regular russet potatoes, sweet potatoes, or even baby potatoes for a fun variation.
• Rice or Quinoa: Skip the buns entirely and serve the sloppy joe mixture over rice or quinoa. This option is gluten-free and adds extra fiber and protein to the meal. For an even healthier twist, opt for brown rice or a grain blend. You could also mix in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: For a fun and unique presentation, hollow out large bell peppers and stuff them with the sloppy joe mixture. Bake the stuffed peppers in the oven until tender, and serve them topped with a sprinkle of shredded cheese. This is a great low-carb, gluten-free option that still offers a satisfying serving of the sloppy joe mixture.

5. Flavor-Boosting Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: Melted cheese is always a crowd-pleaser! Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack on top of your sloppy joes for an extra indulgent touch. Pop the assembled sloppy joes under the broiler for a minute to melt the cheese for a gooey, irresistible finish.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds a rich, mild flavor that pairs beautifully with the tangy, saucy ground chicken. For a little extra flair, sprinkle the avocado with salt, pepper, and lime juice before adding it to the sloppy joes.
• Pickled Jalapeños: If you enjoy a spicy kick, top your sloppy joes with pickled jalapeños. The acidity of the pickles adds brightness, while the heat elevates the flavor profile of the dish.
• Fried Egg: For a breakfast-inspired twist, top your sloppy joe with a fried egg. The creamy yolk enhances the richness of the dish, making it a unique option for brunch or a hearty meal any time of the day.

6. Great for Entertaining or Meal Prep

• Sliders for Parties: Use smaller slider buns to create mini Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes for parties or family gatherings. These bite-sized sliders are fun to eat, easy to serve, and perfect for entertaining. Offer a selection of toppings (like shredded cheese, pickles, and coleslaw) so guests can customize their sliders.
• Make-Ahead and Freeze: Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes are an excellent choice for meal prep. You can make the sloppy joe mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture and spoon it over buns, lettuce wraps, or baked potatoes.

7. Pairing with Drinks

• Sparkling Water with Lemon: A light, refreshing beverage like sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime pairs well with the bold flavors of sloppy joes. It helps cleanse the palate without adding extra calories.
• Iced Tea: A cold glass of iced tea—whether sweetened or unsweetened—is a classic pairing with sloppy joes. The subtle sweetness of iced tea complements the tangy, savory flavors of the ground chicken.
• Beer or Hard Cider: For adults, pair your sloppy joes with a cold beer or hard cider. A light lager or pale ale pairs well with the richness of the dish, while hard cider offers a slightly sweet, crisp contrast to the savory flavors.

With these serving suggestions, you can create a complete, balanced meal to complement your Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes.

Whether you’re going for classic sides, lighter options, or low-carb alternatives, these pairings will make your meal delicious, memorable, and satisfying for every member of the family.

Cooked ground chicken mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information for Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes

This recipe provides a nutritious balance of protein, carbs, and fat, making it a great option for a healthier meal. Here’s a breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 30g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g

Printable Recipe Card: Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes

Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes

Norah Kay

This easy Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes recipe provides a healthier twist on the classic comfort food. Made with lean ground chicken, it’s lower in fat and calories but still packed with bold flavors and a savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, these sloppy joes are a quick and nutritious option for the whole family.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

  

• Ingredients:
• 1 lb lean ground chicken
• 1 medium onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce low sugar
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey optional
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Whole wheat or gluten-free buns for serving

Instructions

 

• Instructions:
• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the onions and garlic until softened (about 3 minutes).
• Add ground chicken and cook until no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
• Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Mix well.
• Let the mixture simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
• Serve the chicken mixture on toasted buns or in lettuce wraps.

Nutritional Information for Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes

• This recipe provides a nutritious balance of protein, carbs, and fat, making it a great option for a healthier meal. Here’s a breakdown per serving:
• Calories: 300
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 30g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g

Notes

Tips:

For extra flavor, toast the buns before serving.

To reduce carbs, swap the buns for lettuce wraps or serve over a bed of greens.

The sloppy joe mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Keyword easy dinner, Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes, healthy sloppy joes, low-fat sloppy joes

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