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Pulled Chicken Sloppy Joes

Pulled Chicken Sloppy Joes bring classic comfort together with a lighter, family-friendly twist that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender shredded chicken is coated in a rich, slightly sweet sauce that cooks down fast and tastes slow simmered.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Course: Main Dish, Sandwich
Cuisine: American
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce Ingredients
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
Seasoning
  • salt and black pepper (to taste)
To Serve
  • 4 soft sandwich buns

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Two Forks (for shredding)

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic.
  3. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat and add the chicken. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes per side until cooked through.
  4. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
  5. In the same skillet, add onion and cook until soft, then add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
  6. Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
  7. Return shredded chicken to the skillet and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until sauce thickens and flavors meld.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  9. Spoon the pulled chicken mixture onto warm buns.
  10. Serve immediately with your favorite simple sides.

Notes

This recipe works very well as a make-ahead meal; flavors deepen as it rests. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.