The Best Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joe Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Busy weeknights demand meals that are fast, comforting, and crowd-pleasing. That’s where cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes shine! These gooey, savory sandwiches bring together tender shredded or ground chicken, rich tomato-based sauce, and creamy melted cheese—perfectly piled on a soft bun. In this article, you’ll discover how to make cheesy chicken sloppy joes from scratch, explore exciting variations, avoid common pitfalls, and even learn what makes them different from a classic Manwich or a Sloppy Jane.

Looking for inspiration? Try our jalapeño popper chicken recipe—a great spicy twist that pairs perfectly with cheesy sandwiches.

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, prepping lunches, or feeding a hungry crowd, this guide has you covered. From ingredient picks to reheating tips, we’ll help you master every bite of this weeknight favorite.

Introduction to Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes

What Are Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes?

Let’s start with the basics. Cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes are a delicious spin on the traditional sloppy joe—typically made with ground beef. Instead of beef, you use juicy cooked chicken (either shredded or ground) and mix it with a tangy-sweet tomato or barbecue sauce. What sets these recipes apart? The generous helping of melted cheese that creates a rich, creamy finish.

Unlike beef sloppy joes, which are often heavier, cheesy chicken sloppy joes feel lighter but still deliver big on flavor. They’re perfect for adults and kids alike and work beautifully for game days, weeknight dinners, or weekend potlucks.

This upgraded version offers everything you love about a classic sandwich but with a gooier, cheesier twist. And it’s endlessly customizable.

Why This Recipe Is a Family Favorite in the USA

Why are cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes becoming a go-to in American kitchens? It’s simple. They combine the nostalgic taste of school-lunch sloppy joes with the heartiness of chicken and cheese—two ingredients Americans love.

Here are a few reasons this meal has won over so many fans:

• Fast Prep Time: You can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and leftover chicken.
• Kid-Friendly: Cheese and mild spices make it super approachable.
• Freezer-Friendly: Store it for future lazy nights.

Plus, it’s the perfect answer for families tired of plain grilled chicken or the same-old sandwiches.

Check out our cheesy garlic chicken wraps if you’re craving more creamy, chicken-packed ideas!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joe Recipes

Essential Ingredients That Make It Cheesy and Delicious

The magic of cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes lies in the simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create big flavors. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

The cheese is the heart of these recipes. Want the ultimate gooey factor? Use both shredded and sliced cheese. Shredded melts into the sauce, while a slice over the sandwich finishes it off perfectly under the broiler.

Optional Add-Ins to Customize Your Sloppy Joes

One of the best things about cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes is how versatile they are. Once you’ve got the base, feel free to get creative. Try adding:

• Bell peppers or jalapeños for crunch or heat
• BBQ sauce in place of ketchup for a smoky twist
• Cream cheese or sour cream for a creamier texture
• Corn or black beans for added body
• Hot sauce to turn up the heat

You can also switch up the cheese for different flavor profiles. Monterey Jack is great for melting, pepper jack adds spice, and even smoked gouda gives it an upscale vibe.

Discover great ideas like our cheesy pepperoni stromboli to explore more melty, savory meals.

When shopping or meal-prepping, make sure to use fresh, high-moisture cheeses and avoid pre-shredded bags that contain anti-caking agents. This ensures your cheesy sauce is ultra-smooth and rich.

Don’t miss our chicken tortilla soup crock pot recipe if you love comfort food with a kick!

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Perfect Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes

How to Cook the Chicken Just Right

The foundation of any great cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipe starts with well-cooked, flavorful chicken. You can use shredded rotisserie chicken, cook and shred boneless chicken breasts, or even go with ground chicken for a heartier texture.

Here’s a basic cooking guide:

Option 1 – Shredded Chicken (best for texture):

1. Add chicken breasts to a pot with broth, onion, garlic, and salt.
2. Simmer until cooked through—about 15–20 minutes.
3. Shred using two forks or a mixer for faster prep.

Option 2 – Ground Chicken (best for speed):

1. Heat oil or butter in a skillet.
2. Add ground chicken with diced onions and garlic.
3. Brown until fully cooked and no longer pink.

Pro Tip: Ground chicken cooks faster and absorbs flavor quickly, but shredded chicken gives a more “pulled pork” sloppy joe feel. You can even mix the two for texture variety!

Looking for a lighter twist? Try using chicken and cabbage stir fry as a side—it balances out the richness of the cheese and sauce beautifully.

Combining the Sauce, Cheese, and Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Once your chicken’s ready, it’s time to build the saucy goodness that makes cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes irresistible.

Sloppy Joe Sauce Instructions:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon butter and sauté 1 diced onion and 2 cloves minced garlic until translucent.
2. Stir in ¾ cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon yellow mustard. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add ¼ teaspoon each of smoked paprika and black pepper. Adjust spices to taste.
4. Stir in the cooked chicken and let it soak up the sauce for 3–5 minutes.

The Cheesy Finish:

Here comes the best part—the cheese. There are two ways to get it super melty and delicious:

• Mix-In Method: Stir in 1–1½ cups of shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella) directly into the hot chicken mixture. This makes a thick, creamy texture throughout.
• Melt-Over Method: After spooning the sloppy joe filling onto the bun, add a cheese slice on top and broil for 1 minute until bubbly and golden.

Bonus: For ultra richness, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce before serving.

Don’t miss our chicken tortellini soup for another creamy, comforting chicken-based dinner idea.

Final Assembly Tips

1. Toast your buns slightly for durability—no one wants soggy bread.
2. Scoop a generous helping of cheesy chicken mixture onto the bottom bun.
3. Top with pickles, jalapeños, or crispy onions if you want to elevate it.
4. Cover with the top bun and serve immediately while hot and gooey.

These steps ensure every bite of your cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes hits with that perfect balance of savory, creamy, cheesy, and tangy.

Best Types of Buns and Toppings for Sloppy Joes

Choosing the Right Bread: Buns, Rolls, or Brioche?

The bun may seem like an afterthought, but in truth, it’s the foundation that holds your cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes together—literally and flavor-wise.

Here are the top bread options that work best:

Pro Tip: Toast the buns lightly on a skillet or under the broiler with a bit of butter or garlic oil. It creates a barrier so your buns don’t get soggy from the saucy mix.

For a low-carb option, you can also serve the mixture open-faced on lettuce cups or even on a bed of rice or mashed potatoes.

Don’t miss our hamburger potato soup—a perfect cozy pairing for sloppy joe night!

Topping Ideas: From Pickles to Jalapeños

Toppings take your cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes from basic to epic. They’re where you can add crunch, heat, or even a touch of sweetness.

Try mixing and matching the following:

• Pickles (sweet or dill): Add tang and crunch
• Crispy fried onions: For a savory crunch
• Sliced jalapeños or banana peppers: Bring the heat
• Shredded lettuce or coleslaw: For a cool, creamy balance
• BBQ sauce drizzle: For sweet and smoky layers
• Avocado slices or guac: Creamy and rich
• Crumbled bacon: Because… bacon. Enough said.

Want even more topping power? Melt an extra layer of cheese on top of the toppings under the broiler. It’ll seal everything together in a golden, bubbly crust.

Learn more about cozy classics like chicken and dressing if you love Southern-inspired comfort food!

A Quick Topping Tip:

Add toppings just before serving to preserve textures. Nobody wants soggy lettuce or wilted pickles hiding in the steam!

So whether you keep it classic with just cheddar and chicken or load it up with spicy pickles and crispy onions, the right combo can seriously elevate your cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes.

Variations of Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joe Recipes

Buffalo Style, BBQ Infused, and Tex-Mex Twists

One of the best things about cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes is how easy they are to personalize. A simple change in sauce or toppings gives you an entirely new dish that feels fresh, exciting, and customized to your taste.

Here are 3 standout flavor twists that will have your family asking for seconds:

Buffalo Chicken Sloppy Joes

If you’re a fan of heat and tang, this version is for you. Use hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot) mixed with butter, and blend it into your shredded chicken. Add crumbled blue cheese or a drizzle of ranch dressing for the full buffalo wing experience.

Pro Tip: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to brighten the heat.

BBQ Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes

Swap out the ketchup and Worcestershire with your favorite BBQ sauce. The smoky sweetness pairs perfectly with sharp cheddar or smoked gouda for a sandwich that’s part sloppy joe, part pulled chicken BBQ.

Check out our fried chicken recipe for another Southern-style comfort dish that works great with BBQ sauce!

Tex-Mex Inspired Sloppy Joes

Think taco night meets sloppy joe. Mix in black beans, corn, cumin, and chili powder into the filling. Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist and top it with crushed tortilla chips or avocado slices.

Discover great ideas like our chicken and shrimp pasta if you love cross-cultural flavor fusions.

Low-Carb or Gluten-Free Options for Special Diets

If you’re watching your carbs or eating gluten-free, don’t worry—there are still plenty of ways to enjoy cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes without the bun.

Low-Carb Options:

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large romaine or butter lettuce leaves as wraps.
• Portobello Mushroom Buns: Grill the caps and use them in place of bread.
• Cauliflower Rice Bowls: Serve the cheesy chicken mixture over riced cauliflower for a bowl-style meal.

Gluten-Free Bread Swaps:

• Gluten-free buns or tortillas (look for fluffy ones to hold the sauce)
• Cornbread waffles or cakes for a Southern twist

Looking for more easy swaps? Check out our almond flour crepes for a creative, gluten-free bread alternative.

No matter how you serve them, these variations keep your cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes exciting, diet-friendly, and far from boring.

What to Serve with Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joes

Classic Sides: Fries, Coleslaw, and Macaroni Salad

When it comes to cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes, choosing the right side dish can make the whole meal feel complete. Traditional pairings work beautifully to balance that cheesy, tangy richness.

Here are the all-time classics that always work:

1. French Fries or Tater Tots

Crispy fries or golden tots are the go-to choice. Whether air-fried, baked, or deep-fried, they add crunch and contrast.

2. Creamy Coleslaw

This cold, tangy side offers a refreshing bite that cuts through the creamy sloppy joe sauce. Add apple slices or pineapple chunks for a sweet twist.

3. Macaroni Salad or Pasta Salad

These creamy, chilled salads complement the warm, gooey filling of the sloppy joe without stealing the spotlight. Add chopped celery or bacon bits for extra flavor.

4. Pickle Spears or Pickled Veggies

A side of sharp pickles gives an acidic contrast that enhances the sandwich’s flavors. Try homemade dill spears, pickled onions, or jalapeños.

Looking for a perfect creamy companion? Don’t miss our ham and potato soup—great for cooler nights with sloppy joe sliders.

Creative Pairings: Air-Fried Veggies, Soups, or Rice Bowls

Want to break out of the traditional? These creative sides and pairings take your cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes to the next level.

1. Air-Fried Veggies

Air-fried zucchini, carrots, or broccoli offer a light, crispy crunch with fewer calories than traditional fried sides.

2. Hearty Soups

Pairing a warm, cozy soup with your sandwich is a full comfort experience. Try creamy tomato basil, cheesy broccoli, or even chicken tortilla soup.

Check out our chicken tortilla soup crock pot recipe for a soup-and-sandwich combo that’s unbeatable.

3. Sweet Potato Fries or Chips

Their subtle sweetness pairs wonderfully with tangy, cheesy chicken filling. Sprinkle with paprika or chili powder for a smoky flavor.

4. Rice or Quinoa Bowls

Serving your cheesy chicken mix over a bowl of rice or quinoa turns this handheld treat into a hearty, fork-and-knife meal.

So whether you’re going for full-on comfort food or keeping things light, these sides will bring balance, texture, and added satisfaction to every bite of your cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes.

Storing and Reheating Sloppy Joe Leftovers

Best Storage Tips to Keep It Fresh

One of the best things about cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes is how well they store. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or saving dinner for later, knowing how to store them right means you’ll never waste a single cheesy bite.

Here’s how to do it right:

For the Chicken Mixture:

• Let the mixture cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container (glass or BPA-free plastic).
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Lay flat for space-saving and freeze up to 3 months.

For the Buns:

• Store buns separately in a bread bag or container to avoid sogginess.
• For freezer storage, wrap in plastic wrap and freeze up to 2 months.

Looking for other comforting, meal-prep-friendly ideas? Try our beef barley soup—it also freezes beautifully and pairs well with sandwiches.

How to Reheat Without Drying Out the Chicken

Reheating sloppy joes is easy, but the trick is to do it without drying out the chicken or separating the cheese from the sauce. Here are your best methods:

Stovetop Reheating (Best Flavor & Texture):

1. Add the leftover chicken mix to a skillet.
2. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally.
3. Add a splash of water, broth, or tomato sauce if it seems dry.
4. Stir until hot, then top with fresh cheese if needed.

Microwave Reheating (Quickest):

1. Place the filling in a microwave-safe dish.
2. Cover with a damp paper towel.
3. Microwave in 45-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.

Oven Reheat (Best for Full Sandwiches):

1. Wrap the sandwich in foil and place in a preheated 350°F oven.
2. Bake for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through.

Bonus Tip:

If you froze the filling, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and even heating.

Don’t miss our chicken tenders and fries—another comfort-food classic that holds up great for leftovers!

These easy steps will help keep your cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes flavorful, gooey, and satisfying—even the next day. Perfect for lunchboxes, late-night snacks, or future meal prep wins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Sloppy Joes

Overcooking Chicken or Using the Wrong Cheese

Even the most flavorful cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful with a few key details. One of the most frequent issues? Overcooked or dry chicken. Whether you’re using rotisserie, shredded, or ground chicken, it’s important not to let it cook too long in the sauce. Chicken continues to cook as it simmers, so remove it from the heat once it’s just heated through.

Avoid These Chicken Mistakes:

• Using dry, overcooked chicken – Always add some liquid (broth or sauce) before reheating.
• Not seasoning the chicken – Even leftover rotisserie chicken needs a flavor boost to match the sauce.
• Skipping the sear – For ground chicken, browning it well adds extra flavor.

Now let’s talk cheese. Not all cheeses melt the same! Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

Choose the Right Cheese:

Pro Tip: Stir in the cheese right before serving to avoid clumping or stringiness.

Want creamy perfection in other meals too? Discover our creamy parmesan Italian sausage soup—smooth, savory, and packed with cheesy richness.

Why Your Sauce May Be Too Runny or Overpowering

Another major problem in many cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes is sauce consistency. A watery or overly tangy sauce can ruin the whole experience.

Here’s how to fix it:

Too Runny?

• Let the sauce simmer longer before adding the cheese or chicken.
• Stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste or even mashed beans to thicken.
• Avoid overloading it with broth or ketchup.

Too Overpowering?

• Balance acidity with a pinch of brown sugar or honey.
• Use unsalted chicken broth to prevent excess salt.
• Stir in a bit of sour cream to mellow the flavor.

Lastly, avoid overcrowding your skillet. Give ingredients room to cook evenly—especially the sauce. Let it bubble gently to deepen flavors before adding the chicken.

Learn more about flavor balancing in our pesto langostino zucchini recipe—a dish that nails freshness and richness.

By keeping an eye on these common missteps, you’ll ensure that your cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes come out just right: saucy but not soupy, cheesy but not greasy, and full of balanced flavor.

Fun Facts and Cultural Twists on Sloppy Joes

From Sloppy Janes to Manwich: A Quick History

Sloppy Joes are as American as burgers and apple pie. But where did they really come from? Many food historians believe the original sloppy joe was created in the 1930s by a cook named Joe in Sioux City, Iowa—who added tomato sauce to loose meat sandwiches, giving birth to the classic comfort food.

But when you add a twist—like chicken and cheese—you enter cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes territory, a new-gen upgrade of a nostalgic staple.

Let’s break down some popular variations:

Fun Fact: Manwich, the canned sauce brand, made the sloppy joe a 1980s staple—but today, people prefer homemade versions like these cheesy ones, using fresh ingredients and real cheese.

What They’re Called in England and Other Regions

Across the pond, cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes don’t go by the same name. In fact, Sloppy Joes aren’t even well-known in many places, but similar dishes do exist—just under different labels.

Here’s a global look:

So if you’re ever in London and craving one of your favorite cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes, you may need to build your own—buns, sauce, and all!

And let’s not forget the fun names people give this saucy classic:

• Sloppy Chicks – When made with chicken
• Messy Melts – For the extra cheesy versions
• Saucy Sammies – Because it’s all about that sauce

Looking for more cheesy, globally inspired comfort food? Check out our sushi order topped with salmon—a creative, umami-packed twist on tradition.

These cultural spins and quirky facts prove just how versatile and beloved cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes have become—from American kitchens to tables around the world.

FAQs About Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joe Recipes

Conclusion: Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joe Recipes That Never Disappoint

Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that’s easy, comforting, and family-friendly—or a game-day showstopper dripping in gooey goodness—cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipes deliver every time. With their rich sauce, melty cheese, and tender chicken piled high on the perfect bun, these sandwiches are far from ordinary.

You’ve now got the tools to make them perfectly: from picking the right cheese and toppings to choosing sides and avoiding common kitchen mistakes. You can go bold with buffalo, smoky with BBQ, or spicy with Tex-Mex—all while keeping things simple and satisfying.

Don’t miss our macaroni and cheese bowl if you’re craving even more creamy, cheesy comfort in your life.

So go ahead—bookmark this guide, gather your ingredients, and whip up a batch tonight. Because once you’ve made these, plain sandwiches just won’t cut it anymore.

Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joe recipes

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This cheesy chicken sloppy joe recipe is a quick, flavorful twist on the classic. With a tangy sauce and gooey melted cheese, it’s a guaranteed family favorite!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 brioche or hamburger buns, toasted

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Instructions

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and sauté until softened.
• Add ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
• In a small bowl, mix ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour over chicken and stir to coat.
• Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
• Stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
• Spoon the chicken mixture onto toasted buns and serve immediately.

Notes

• For added heat, mix in hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
• Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Cheesy chicken sloppy joes, sloppy joe recipe, chicken sloppy joes, quick dinner recipes, comfort food recipes