This Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Sloppy Joes recipe brings together juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a zesty ranch flavor all on a soft bun. It’s a fun twist on the classic sloppy joe!
You know it’s a winner when all my friends ask for seconds. Who can resist that bacon crunch? I serve it with some fries, and it’s an instant party in my kitchen!
Making this dish is a breeze! Just cook everything in one pan, mix it up, and serve. Perfect for busy nights when you want something simple yet tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is key for a leaner option. If you prefer, you can swap it out for ground turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
Bacon: The crispy bacon gives great flavor and crunch. You can use turkey bacon for a healthier option or plant-based bacon if you’re looking to keep it meat-free.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: Ranch dressing packets are easy, but you can make your own with a blend of dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder if you prefer homemade.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. You can substitute it with Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free cheese if needed.
Sandwich Buns: Regular buns are classic, but you could go for whole wheat or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Cooked Right?
Cooking ground chicken properly is essential for a tasty Sloppy Joe. Here’s how to ensure it’s done well:
- Brown the chicken on medium heat, and break it up as it cooks. Look for it to turn completely white and lose any pink color.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Don’t rush! Take a few extra minutes if needed; it really makes a difference in flavor and texture.
And that’s it! With these tips, your Chicken Bacon Ranch Sloppy Joes will turn out perfectly every time!
Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 6 strips of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 sandwich buns
- Optional: lettuce leaves or tomato slices for toppings
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes total! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it’s crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, leaving the delicious bacon fat in the pan. Set the crispy bacon aside for later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Into the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and sauté it in the bacon fat until it’s soft, about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
3. Brown the Chicken:
Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s no longer pink, which should take about 6-7 minutes. Don’t forget to season with a little salt and pepper!
4. Mix in the Sauces:
To the skillet, stir in the ranch seasoning mix, ketchup, and barbecue sauce. Make sure everything is well combined and heated through.
5. Add the Bacon and Cheese:
Return the crispy bacon to the pan and mix it into the chicken mixture. Now, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it’s melted and everything is mixed together nicely.
6. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
If you like, you can toast the sandwich buns for a little extra crunch. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken bacon ranch mixture onto the bottom halves of the buns. Feel free to add optional toppings like fresh lettuce or slices of tomato!
7. Finish and Serve:
Cover the filled buns with their tops, and your Chicken Bacon Ranch Sloppy Joes are ready to enjoy. Serve them warm, and watch everyone dig in!
Enjoy your delicious and easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Sloppy Joes!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Sloppy Joes
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken and will work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed since ground turkey can sometimes take a bit longer to cook through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring until heated through. You can also freeze the mixture for up to 3 months!
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning on hand, you can make your own by mixing dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. Alternatively, you can use a taco seasoning mix for a different flavor twist!
Can I Make This Recipe a Day Ahead?
Yes! This sloppy joe mixture can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove when you’re ready to serve, and it’ll save you time during mealtime!
