I have to say, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Sloppy Joes recipe has become an instant favorite at my house. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch sauce, all topped with melted cheese, is just too good to resist.
When I made this, my family couldn’t stop raving about it, and the best part? It only took about 30 minutes to throw together! Whether you’re whipping up a quick weekday dinner or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to impress.
For a cheesy delight, you can also explore this Smoky Chipotle Bacon Mac and Cheese Recipe as a side dish or alternative.
Ingredients For Chicken Bacon Ranch Sloppy Joes Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible sloppy joes. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating that perfect flavor and texture.
- 1/2 pound bacon – Regular bacon works best here. Fry it up until crisp for that smoky crunch that ties the whole sandwich together.
- 1 pound ground chicken – Ground chicken is lean and cooks quickly, making it ideal for this recipe, but make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
- 1/2 yellow onion, chopped – The onion adds sweetness and depth to the filling. Finely chop it to avoid big chunks.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix – This is the shortcut ingredient that brings all the creamy, tangy flavor we love.
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or 2%) – Whole milk works great to make the sauce rich and creamy.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Essential for thickening the sauce so it sticks perfectly to the chicken.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Always grate your own mozzarella for better meltability and creaminess.
- 1 cup chopped cheddar cheese – Adding cheddar gives the dish a sharp, tangy kick. Chop it into small pieces to create gooey pockets of cheese.
Note: This recipe serves 4 generously.
Variations to Try
This recipe is super versatile, so feel free to experiment! Here are some variations you might enjoy:
- Dairy-Free Option: Use almond or oat milk with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Low-Carb: Swap the traditional buns for lettuce cups or low-carb tortillas.
- Extra Flavor Boost: Add a dash of smoked paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- Keto-Friendly: Replace the milk with heavy cream and use keto-approved buns or serve over cauliflower rice.
- Vegetarian Substitute: Replace the chicken with plant-based ground meat or lentils and use a vegan ranch packet.
If you’re into bold flavors, you might love this One-Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta Recipe for a spicy twist.
Cooking Time
Here’s how to plan your cooking schedule:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment You Need
Here’s the essential kitchen equipment you’ll need and their purpose:
- Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the bacon and the chicken in one pan.
- Sharp knife: For chopping the onions, bacon, and cheese.
- Cutting board: A sturdy base for chopping all your ingredients.
- Whisk: For combining the ranch packet, milk, and cornstarch without lumps.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir and mix everything evenly.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Sloppy Joes
For a delicious twist on the classic sloppy joe, try this Chicken Bacon Ranch version! Packed with savory bacon, tender chicken, and creamy ranch flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Follow these easy steps to make your own tasty Chicken Bacon Ranch Sloppy Joes.
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the bacon until it’s crisp, then transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels. Drain most of the fat from the skillet, leaving about two tablespoons behind.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Add the ground chicken and chopped onion to the skillet. Cook everything together for about 5–7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and starts to brown. Use a spoon to break up the chicken into smaller crumbles.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce
While the chicken cooks, whisk together the ranch seasoning mix, milk, and cornstarch in a small bowl. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the cooked chicken and onions. Stir and cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken evenly.
Step 4: Add Cheeses and Bacon
Stir in the shredded mozzarella until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy mixture. Chop the cooked bacon into small pieces and sprinkle it, along with the chopped cheddar cheese, over the chicken mixture. Stir gently to combine, but don’t overmix, so you still get pockets of melted cheddar.
Step 5: Fill and Finishing
Scoop the hot chicken mixture onto toasted buns, and serve immediately. The toasted buns add a nice crunch that holds up against the saucy filling.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
From my kitchen to yours, here are some extra tips to ensure your sloppy joes turn out perfect every time:
- Toast the buns: This prevents the bread from getting soggy and adds a delicious crunch.
- Don’t skip fresh cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents, which can affect how it melts.
- Control sauce thickness: If the sauce feels too runny, cook it a bit longer before adding the cheeses.
- Make it spicier: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce if you love heat.
- Use the right skillet: A large, non-stick skillet helps everything cook evenly without sticking.
How to Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Sloppy Joes
To serve these sandwiches, spoon the filling generously onto toasted brioche or hamburger buns. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of freshness. These pair wonderfully with a side of crispy sweet potato fries, onion rings, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve the filling over baked potatoes for a fun twist!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 551
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 40g
What is the proper way to store food?
If you’re looking to prepare this dish ahead of time or store leftovers, here’s how you can keep it fresh:
Storage
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or over low heat on the stove.
Freezing
The chicken mixture (without bacon) freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, heat it, and mix in freshly cooked bacon.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop on low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
You can also enjoy similar dinner recipes for more inspiration.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This has quickly become one of my go-to recipes, and here’s why I think you’ll love it too:
- Quick and easy: 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Comforting and flavorful: The bacon, ranch, and cheese combo never fails to please.
- Kid-approved: It’s a guaranteed hit with picky eaters.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt for dietary needs or personal taste.
- Great for leftovers: It tastes just as good, if not better, the next day!
FAQs
Can I use shredded chicken instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Just cook the sauce and mix in pre-cooked shredded chicken at the end to warm it up.
What type of buns are best for this recipe?
Brioche buns are ideal because they’re soft yet sturdy. Hoagie rolls or potato buns also work well.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
This recipe is best made on the stovetop, but you could cook the chicken, sauce, and cheeses in a slow cooker on low for 3–4 hours, then stir in the bacon before serving.
Is it okay to use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute and pairs well with the ranch and bacon flavors.