Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly healthy? Then look no further! This Sloppy Joe Chicken recipe is your answer. It's a fun twist on a classic comfort food, packed with deliciousness and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Hamburger buns or your favorite bread for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. This helps to develop a richer flavor.
Step 3: Simmer the Sloppy Joe Sauce
Stir in the minced garlic, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, onion powder, and black pepper. Season with salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve the Sloppy Joe Chicken on hamburger buns, slider buns, or even over rice or mashed potatoes. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Sloppy Joe Chicken:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier Sloppy Joe, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
- Don't overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking. You can also whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to thicken it further.
Variations:
- Spicy Sloppy Joe Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a kick.
- BBQ Sloppy Joe Chicken: Replace the ketchup with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
- Vegetarian Sloppy Joe: Substitute the chicken with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled vegetarian crumbles.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This delicious and easy Sloppy Joe Chicken recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. It's a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional Sloppy Joes, making it a great option for the whole family. Enjoy!