Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare? Look no further! Slow Cooker Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes in a Spicy Buffalo Style are the perfect blend of bold flavors and comfort food. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just want a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please. The combination of ground chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and a hint of sweetness from honey creates a delightful twist on the classic sloppy joe.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 lbs. ground chicken (or ground beef can be used)
1 small onion, diced
1 tsp olive oil
2 stalks celery, chopped
3 tbsp minced garlic
1.5 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
8 oz tomato sauce
1/2 c Franks Hot Sauce
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes – 6 hours 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Instructions
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add your diced onion and ground chicken (and diced celery if desired). Cook until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
Add this ground chicken mixture to your slow cooker. Stir in the salt, pepper, tomato sauce, Buffalo wing sauce, honey, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours to allow the flavors to deepen.
Once ready, garnish with scallions, if desired. Serve the spicy sloppy joes on brioche buns, topped with crumbled blue cheese and/or ranch or blue cheese dressing for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your flavorful creation!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all the required ingredients including ground chicken, onion, celery, garlic, tomato sauce, hot sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the diced onion and ground chicken. If desired, add the chopped celery as well. Cook until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and no longer pink.
Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Once cooked, transfer the ground chicken mixture to your slow cooker.
Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients
In the slow cooker, add salt, pepper, tomato sauce, Frank’s hot sauce, honey, and Worcestershire sauce.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Stir everything together until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 6: Cooking Time
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. This allows the flavors to deepen.
Step 7: Prepare for Serving
After cooking, check the mixture for seasoning and adjust if necessary.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with scallions if desired. Serve the Sloppy Joes on brioche buns topped with crumbled blue cheese and/or ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Notes
Substitute Options
Ground beef can be used as an alternative to ground chicken if preferred.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Spice Level Adjustment
Adjust the amount of hot sauce according to your spice preference.
Serving Suggestions
These Sloppy Joes pair well with a side of potato chips or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
1. Sautéing
In a large skillet, sauté diced onion over medium-high heat to enhance its flavor before mixing it with the ground chicken. This step caramelizes the onion, adding depth to the dish.
2. Brown the Meat
Cook the ground chicken until it is no longer pink. Browning the meat improves the taste and texture, creating a more satisfying dish.
3. Slow Cooking
Use a slow cooker to allow the flavors to meld over several hours. Cooking on low for 4-6 hours enables the spices and sauces to develop a rich, cohesive flavor profile.
4. Garnishing
Consider garnishing the dish with scallions before serving. This adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a bit of color to the presentation.
5. Serving
Serve the Sloppy Joes on brioche buns. Pairing them with crumbled blue cheese and ranch or blue cheese dressing enhances the buffalo flavor, providing a creamy contrast.
FAQ
Can I use ground beef instead of ground chicken?
Yes, ground beef can be used as a substitute for ground chicken based on your preference.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
How can I adjust the spiciness?
To adjust the heat, you can reduce the amount of Frank’s Hot Sauce or add more honey to balance the spice.
What sides pair well with Sloppy Joes?
Sloppy Joes pair well with sides like coleslaw, potato wedges, or a simple garden salad.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken with a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version of Sloppy Joes.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes in Spicy Buffalo Style offer a delightful blend of heat and flavor that can elevate any meal. The use of ground chicken not only makes it a lighter option but also allows for the rich and spicy sauce to shine through. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to please any crowd.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
For a delicious vegetarian option, toss cauliflower florets in Buffalo sauce and roast until crispy. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Combine cooked pasta with shredded Buffalo chicken and a creamy sauce for a rich and satisfying meal.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Spread Buffalo sauce over pizza dough, top with cooked chicken, cheese, and your favorite veggies for a spicy twist on traditional pizza.
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Mix shredded Buffalo chicken with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of ranch dressing for a refreshing and spicy salad option.
Buffalo Chicken Tacos
Fill taco shells with shredded Buffalo chicken, lettuce, and cheese for a fun and spicy take on taco night.