BBQ Chicken Sloppy Joes

BBQ Chicken Sloppy Joes transform a nostalgic classic into a loaded and vibrant weeknight hero. Fresh peppers and onions make the sauce fragrant and savory while the ground chicken keeps it lighter than the traditional. I wanted something fast and fun that still hits all those barbecue comfort notes and the creamy coleslaw adds the perfect crunchy tang on top. When I first made this on a busy summer night, even my picky eater went back for seconds

I first made this during a hectic week and it immediately became our go to Sunday supper. Even my BBQ purist brother in law gives it a thumbs up

Ingredients

• Neutral oil: Adds flavor without overpowering Use avocado or canola for the best browning
• Yellow onion: Essential foundation for sweetness and depth Pick one that feels heavy for its size
• Kosher salt: Enhances even cooking and brightens the other flavors
• Red bell pepper: Pops of sweetness and color Choose one with taut skin and no bruising
• Jalapeno: Brings gentle heat Use half and remove seeds if you want milder
• Garlic: Boosts the BBQ aroma and umami Look for plump firm cloves
• Ground chicken: Lighter than beef but holds sauce well Try to find all dark meat for juicier results
• Canned crushed tomatoes: Juicy base for sauciness Use a good quality brand for rich tomato flavor
• Chili powder: Adds smoky savory complexity Go for a fresh blend for the best kick
• Black pepper: Wakes up all the savory notes Freshly cracked gives better aroma
• Kansas City style BBQ sauce: For that signature sweet tangy glaze Look for one with a touch of molasses
• Green or purple cabbage: Shredded for crunch Select a head with crisp leaves for slaw texture
• Carrot: Lends color and sweetness Choose firm bright orange ones
• Scallion: For onion flavor and freshness Pick scallions that are fresh and green
• Mayonnaise: Binds the slaw and adds creaminess I like whole egg mayo for better body
• Fresh cilantro: For brightness and green flavor Chop right before using for freshness
• Apple cider vinegar: Brightens and balances the slaw Unfiltered adds a mellow kick
• Sugar: Gives the slaw a subtle sweetness so it is not too sharp
• Brioche or white hamburger buns: Toasted for sturdiness and flavor Soft but dense is best
• Dill pickle slices: For a zesty finish Look for refrigerated deli pickles for crispness

Step by Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Cook onions in a large skillet with half your oil and a sprinkle of salt over medium heat for about six minutes until golden and soft This draws out their natural sweetness for a savory base Add the chopped bell pepper and jalapeno then keep cooking for five more minutes until softened and fragrant Stir in the garlic and let it cook just until the aroma blooms usually one minute

Brown the Ground Chicken:

Move the onion pepper mixture to the sides of your pan then pour the rest of the oil into the center Add the ground chicken season with more salt and let it cook as you break it up with a spoon Keep browning until the chicken pieces are no longer pink and they start to brown This step gives your meat real flavor and structure

Simmer with Sauce:

Add canned crushed tomatoes and chili powder over the browned chicken then season with fresh pepper Increase the heat to high and bring everything to a carefree simmer Let it bubble until the sauce thickens slightly which takes about four minutes

Finish with BBQ Sauce:

Turn the heat down to medium then stir in your BBQ sauce Mix gently and let it simmer for another five minutes until the sauce becomes thick and glossy Taste and adjust with more salt or pepper if you like then take off heat

Prepare the Creamy Coleslaw:

In a big bowl combine shredded cabbage grated carrot thinly sliced scallion mayonnaise chopped cilantro apple cider vinegar sugar and salt Toss thoroughly until everything is well coated and creamy

Assemble the Sandwiches:

Pile the hot BBQ chicken mixture generously onto toasted bottom buns Spoon an airy mound of creamy slaw on top Layer with dill pickle slices then cap with the toasted top bun

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I always look forward to the crunch from the slaw It is my favorite bite alongside the smoky meat When my uncle tried this dish at our family reunion we had to print out the recipe for everyone on the spot

Storage Tips

Cool the BBQ chicken filling fully before storing in a tightly sealed container in your refrigerator It keeps well chilled for up to four days and you can quickly reheat portions in a skillet or microwave The slaw tastes best freshly tossed but leftovers can be stored for a day or two in a separate container to stay crisp If making ahead I wait to assemble sandwiches until just before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have ground chicken ground turkey is a fine swap When it comes to BBQ sauce try your favorite store bought brand or use homemade for a personal touch For the coleslaw Greek yogurt can take the place of mayonnaise and broccoli slaw works great as a crunchier base For extra heat finely chop another jalapeno or stir in chipotle powder

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sloppy joes hot with potato salad corn on the cob or baked beans Some love to add extra pickles on top You can also spoon the filling over baked sweet potatoes or stuff inside lettuce leaves for a lighter meal At picnics or game days they hold up well on a platter with all the toppings on the side

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Cultural and Historical Context

Sloppy joes started as a simple American comfort food but versions like this show how regionally inspired flavors bring new life to tradition Kansas City style BBQ sauce gives a sweet tang that balances the spicy jalapeno and crunchy slaw Growing up the neighborhood block party always featured some form of messy sandwich and this take blends old school spirit and freshness

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey, pork, or even beef can be swapped for chicken. Cooking times may vary slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.

→ What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Kansas City-style sauce is used here for its sweet and tangy balance, but you can use your favorite regional BBQ variety.

→ How do I make the coleslaw extra creamy?

Using full-fat mayonnaise and a splash of vinegar ensures a rich, creamy slaw. Adjust the sugar and salt to your taste preference.

→ Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely. The chicken mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ What are good sides to serve with this?

Classic BBQ sides such as potato salad, baked beans, or corn on the cob pair wonderfully with these sandwiches.

→ Are there ways to make this spicier?

Increase the jalapeño, add chili flakes, or use a spicy BBQ sauce to ramp up the heat level as desired.