Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe

Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Sloppy Joes (Easy Crockpot Dinner Recipe)

ByAbhijit Dey
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Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Sloppy Joes, Smoky, sweet, and tangy pulled chicken in a soft bun – your weeknight dinner just got an upgrade!

Today’s special recipe is for those who love Sloppy Joes. But for those who don’t know about Sloppy Joes, let me briefly explain that A sloppy joe is a sandwich consisting of ground meat, onions, tomato sauce or ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and other seasonings served on a hamburger bun. This Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Sloppy Joes is an easy to make, high in protein, flavor-packed, budget-friendly dinner option.

Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe

With the smoky heat of chipotle peppers, the tender juiciness of shredded chicken, and the sweet tang of a homemade sloppy joe sauce, this crockpot chicken recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the hassle. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners, game day parties, or meal prep lunches, this recipe transforms simple pantry ingredients into a hearty, comforting meal that’s healthier than traditional beef sloppy joes and easy to adapt for low carb, gluten-free, or dairy-free diets. The slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day, making this a set-it-and-forget-it dinner idea that’s as convenient as it is delicious.

Today, I’m showing you how to make perfect pulled chipotle chicken sandwiches every time. These smoky-sweet sloppy joes are the perfect low-carb dinner option and are perfect served on toasted brioche buns with creamy coleslaw.

Yield: 6 Sliders

Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe

Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe

This Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Sloppy Joes recipe is the ultimate combination of smoky chipotle flavor, tender shredded chicken, and a tangy-sweet sauce — all made effortlessly in your crockpot. Perfect for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or meal prep lunches, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal hands-on time.
The chipotle peppers in adobo sauce give it a smoky kick, while the slow cooking infuses the chicken with maximum flavor. Serve on toasted brioche buns, whole wheat rolls, or lettuce wraps for a lighter low-carb option.
This family-friendly dinner recipe is also a budget-friendly meal prep idea that’s high in protein, making it perfect for anyone looking for healthy comfort food without sacrificing taste.

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time (Slow Cooker) 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs for juicier texture)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce (no sugar added for healthier version)
  • ½ cup ketchup (or low-sugar ketchup for low carb)
  • 2–3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust for spice preference)
  • 2 tbsp adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar (or honey/maple syrup for natural sweetener)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 6 burger buns (brioche, whole wheat, or gluten-free)
  • Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, shredded cheese, jalapeños

Instructions

  • Prepare the Slow Cooker – Lightly grease or spray your crockpot insert with non-stick cooking spray.
  • Load the Ingredients – Add chicken breasts, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
  • Mix the Sauce – In a bowl, whisk together tomato sauce, ketchup, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and chicken broth.
  • Combine and Cook – Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken. Stir slightly to coat.
  • Slow Cook – Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  • Shred the Chicken – Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the slow cooker. Stir to coat in the sauce.
  • Serve – Spoon the chipotle chicken mixture onto buns, top with coleslaw or cheese if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Meal Prep Friendly – Make a large batch and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
  • Adjust Spice Levels – For a milder flavor, use only one chipotle pepper or substitute with smoked paprika.
  • Make It Low Carb – Serve in lettuce wraps or on low-carb buns.
  • Add Extra Veggies – Bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can be added for extra nutrition.
  • Double the Sauce – If you like extra saucy sloppy joes, increase tomato sauce and ketchup by ½ cup each.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 356Total Fat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 41mgSodium: 1598mgCarbohydrates: 47gFiber: 4gSugar: 18gProtein: 21g

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© Abhijit Dey
Cuisine: American / Category: Slow Cooker Recipes

Suggested: Mediterranean Grain Bowls

Ingredient Breakdown with Buying Tips

Everything you need to make Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Sloppy Joes—with smart shopping advice, healthy swaps, and pro picks to save money and maximize flavor.

Boneless skinless chicken breasts
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (or Thighs)
High-Protein • Lean
RoleJuicy, shreddable base for our chipotle sloppy joes.
BuyLook for family packs or weekly promos; thighs give extra moisture for slow cooker recipes.
SwapRotisserie chicken (reduce cook time) or turkey breast.
HealthTrim visible fat; target safe doneness of 165°F / 74°C (food safety).
Pro Buying Tips

Choose chicken with minimal added solution (no broth injection) for better texture. Freeze in 1–2 lb bags for quicker thaw and meal prep.

Chopped onion
Yellow Onion
Aromatics • Sweetness
RoleNatural sweetness and body for the sauce.
BuyPick firm, heavy onions with dry skins; avoid sprouts.
SwapWhite onion, sweet onion, or 1 tsp onion powder in a pinch.
Storage & Prep

Store in a cool, dark, ventilated spot—never the fridge. Dice uniformly for even cooking.

Garlic cloves
Garlic Cloves
Aromatics • Depth
RoleBoosts savory, slow-cooked flavor.
BuyChoose tight, heavy bulbs; avoid soft or green-sprouted cloves.
Swap1 tsp garlic powder per clove.
Pro Tip

Mash with salt to a paste for even distribution in the sauce.

Tomato sauce can
Tomato Sauce (No Sugar Added)
Base • Umami
RoleForms the tangy-sweet sloppy joe base.
BuyLook for no added sugar and BPA-free cans.
SwapCrushed tomatoes + 1 tbsp tomato paste.
Label Check

Short ingredients list wins: tomatoes, salt, basil—skip fillers and corn syrup.

Ketchup bottle
Ketchup (Regular or Low-Sugar)
Sweetness • Balance
RoleBalances chipotle heat with classic sloppy joe sweetness.
BuyChoose low sugar / no HFCS to keep calories in check.
SwapTomato paste + honey + vinegar.
Budget Saver

Store brand low-sugar ketchup often tastes identical at a lower CPM (cost per meal).

Chipotle peppers in adobo
Chipotle Peppers in Adobo + Adobo Sauce
Smoky Heat • Signature Flavor
RoleDelivers that smoky, spicy, restaurant-quality flavor.
BuyChoose well-known brands for consistent heat; freeze leftover peppers in cubes.
Control HeatUse 1 pepper for mild, 2–3 for medium-hot. Add more adobo for smoke without much heat.
SwapSmoked paprika + a dash of cayenne.
Chef Tip

Blend the whole can with a splash of broth; freeze in 1-tbsp portions for instant flavor boosts.

Apple cider vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar
Tang • Brightness
RoleAdds brightness; balances sweetness and fat.
BuyChoose raw, unfiltered “with the mother” for depth; store-brand is fine.
SwapRed wine vinegar or distilled white vinegar (reduce by 25%).
Brown sugar bowl
Brown Sugar (or Honey/Maple Syrup)
Sweet • Caramel Notes
RoleRounds out chipotle heat and tomato acidity.
BuyLight brown sugar for classic taste; choose honey or maple for refined sugar–free option.
SwapMonk fruit or erythritol for lower carbs (adjust to taste).
Worcestershire sauce bottle
Worcestershire Sauce
Umami • Complexity
RoleAdds savory depth that mimics slow-simmered barbecue.
BuyClassic brands have the best balance; check for anchovy if pescatarian concerns.
SwapSoy sauce + a dash of fish sauce + pinch of brown sugar.
Spice blend
Smoked Paprika, Chili Powder, Cumin, Salt & Pepper
Rub • Smoke • Warmth
RoleBuilds smoky warmth and classic sloppy joe profile.
BuyChoose smoked paprika (not sweet) for barbecue notes; refresh spices every 6–12 months.
SwapTaco seasoning (low-sodium) in a pinch.
Chicken broth carton
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
Moisture • Balance
RoleThins the sauce for slow, even cooking without burning.
BuyLow-sodium lets you control salt; bone broth adds extra protein.
SwapWater + pinch of bouillon.
Brioche buns
Brioche/Whole-Wheat/Gluten-Free Buns + Toppings
Serving • Texture
RoleSoft buns soak up sauce; toppings add crunch and creaminess.
BuyBrioche for indulgence, whole-wheat for fiber, GF buns for celiac-friendly option.
TopColeslaw, pickles, shredded cheese, jalapeños, avocado.
Hosting Hack

Serve as sliders on mini buns for game day parties—high-impact, low-cost crowd pleaser.

Suggested: Low-Carb Breakfast Burrito Recipes

Step-by-Step: Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Sloppy Joes (Easy Crockpot Dinner)

Step 1 — Prep the Slow Cooker & Base Aromatics

Lightly grease your slow cooker (5–7 quarts). Add diced onion and minced garlic as a flavor base. Place boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) on top. This layering helps the aromatics sweat gently for that classic smoky chipotle chicken depth.

Onion, garlic, and chicken layered in a slow cooker
Layer aromatics first, then chicken for even cooking.

Step 2 — Whisk the Chipotle Sloppy Joe Sauce (Sweet-Smoky)

In a bowl, whisk tomato sauce, ketchup (or low-sugar ketchup), minced chipotle peppers + adobo sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar or honey, Worcestershire, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and a splash of chicken broth.

Whisking chipotle sloppy joe sauce in a glass bowl
Whisk until glossy; taste and adjust heat with more adobo.

For bolder smoke without extra heat, add ½–1 tsp more smoked paprika. For sweeter “kid-friendly” sloppy joes, add 1–2 tsp maple syrup.

Step 3 — Combine & Slow Cook (Hands-Off Weeknight Dinner)

Pour the sauce over the chicken and stir to coat. Cook on LOW 4–6 hours or HIGH 2–3 hours until the chicken is fork-tender. This long, low simmer develops deep, budget-friendly meal prep flavor.

Chicken slow cooking in chipotle sauce
Keep the lid closed to maintain steady heat and moisture.

Food Safety: Chicken should reach a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Verify with an instant-read thermometer. Official temperature guide (FoodSafety.gov) .

Step 4 — Shred & Sauce (Pulled Chipotle Chicken)

Transfer chicken to a board and shred with two forks (or a hand mixer on low). Return meat to the slow cooker and toss until every strand is coated in the chipotle sloppy joe sauce. For extra saucy sandwiches, simmer 10–15 minutes on LOW.

Shredding the cooked chicken and mixing back into sauce
Shred while warm for the softest, juiciest texture.

Meal Prep Win: Portion into containers (with sauce) for high-protein lunches. Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months for budget-friendly batch cooking.

Step 5 — Toast, Assemble & Serve (Family-Friendly or Game Day)

Lightly toast brioche buns (or whole-wheat/gluten-free). Pile on the pulled chipotle chicken and finish with creamy coleslaw, pickles, or shredded cheese. For low-carb, use lettuce wraps. Serve with sweet potato fries or salad for a balanced, healthy dinner.

Assembled chipotle chicken sloppy joes on toasted brioche buns
Add a tangy slaw for crunch to balance the smoky heat.
Sliders (Party Platter)Rice BowlLow-Carb
Use mini buns + pickled jalapeños.Serve over cilantro-lime rice with avocado.Lettuce wraps + extra slaw = crunch without the bun.
Spice ControlMake-Ahead StrategyHealth & Nutrition
Milder? Use 1 chipotle pepper and more smoked paprika. Hotter? Add extra adobo or a pinch of cayenne.Cook, shred, and chill in sauce. Reheat gently; add a splash of broth to keep it glossy and saucy.Use thighs for juiciness or breasts for leaner high-protein macros. Serve on whole-grain buns.

Related: Instant Pot Pulled Chicken Recipe

Variations & Dietary Modifications

Low‑Carb / Keto Chipotle Chicken

If you want a low carb dinner or keto chicken recipe that keeps the smoky chipotle flavor without the bun carbs.

  • Swap: Serve over butter‑sautéed zucchini ribbons, cauliflower rice, or in crisp lettuce cups instead of buns.
  • Sugar swap: Replace brown sugar with 1–2 tbsp erythritol or monk fruit to keep carbs low.
  • Cheese: Add shredded cheddar or pepper jack for extra fat and flavor (optional).

Pick this if your goal is weight loss or ketogenic meal prep. High protein + low carb = longer fullness and better meal prep performance.

Gluten‑Free Chipotle Chicken

Keep the classic sloppy joe experience for gluten-sensitive guests or family members.

  • Swap: Use certified gluten‑free buns, corn tortillas, or serve over quinoa or rice.
  • Check labels: Ensure ketchup, Worcestershire, and canned chipotle are gluten‑free (many brands are, but always verify).

Choose this for kids’ lunchboxes or potlucks with dietary restrictions — same crowd-pleasing flavor, zero gluten drama.

Vegetarian & Vegan (Jackfruit, Lentils, or Mushrooms)

Want some veg alternative of crockpot chipotle chicken? Bring smoky chipotle sloppy joe vibes to plant-based eaters — ideal for family gatherings where one dish must satisfy all.

  • Jackfruit: Use 2 cans young green jackfruit (drained, shredded) and follow the same sauce & cook method in a skillet or slow cooker on low for 1.5–2 hours. Texture: pulled-meat-like.
  • Lentils: Use 2 cups cooked green or brown lentils, reduce broth to 1/2 cup, and simmer 20 minutes to meld flavors.
  • Mushrooms: Finely chopped cremini or oyster mushrooms (600g) sautéed until browned — great for umami-rich results.

Pick jackfruit if you want a pulled-meat texture; use lentils for higher protein and budget friendliness. Use mushrooms for intense umami and a lower-calorie option.

Instant Pot / Pressure Cooker Adaptation

Need dinner fast? Get the same tender Chipotle chicken in under 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights.

  • Method: Sauté onions & garlic in the Instant Pot (Sauté mode), add chicken & sauce, pressure cook 12 minutes (manual/high), quick release, shred chicken and simmer sauce 2–3 minutes on Sauté to thicken.
  • Liquid: Use 3/4 cup chicken broth instead of 1 cup to avoid excess liquid after pressure release.

Choose this when time is limited but you still want slow-cooked flavor — a top pick for weeknight meal prep and easy family dinner recipes.

Party Sliders & Game‑Day Variation

These Crockpot Chicken Sandwiches are my favorite party sliders. For any party, these Chipotle chicken sliders are my must-have item.

  • Scale: Make the same recipe, shred, then serve on mini brioche or Hawaiian rolls. Keep a tray of pickles, coleslaw, and jalapeño slices for toppings.
  • Make-ahead: Keep sauce warm in a slow cooker on LOW for serving at parties.

Extra‑Veggie & Fiber Boost

Add veggies to increase fiber, nutrients, and plate volume — great for families and meal-prep bulk cooking.

  • Add-ins: Finely dice red bell pepper, shredded carrot, or zucchini and stir in during the last hour of slow cooking.
  • Benefits: More veggies = higher satiety, improved nutrition.

Choose this for lunchboxes or when stretching the recipe to feed more people without increasing cost much.

Allergy‑Friendly: Dairy‑Free & Nut‑Free

  • Swap: Use dairy-free margarine or oil for toasting buns; avoid cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
  • Cross-contamination: Label and separate prep surfaces to keep nut-free if you’re using packaged toppings.

Suggested: High-Protein Salad Bowls

Serving Suggestions & Pairings — Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Sloppy Joes

Transform smoky chipotle chicken into an unforgettable meal. Below are some tested serving ideas and pairing options for family dinners and meal-prep-friendly trays.

Classic Combo — Toasted Brioche + Creamy Coleslaw

Brioche adds buttery softness & the crunchy, tangy coleslaw balances chipotle heat.

Making: Toast buns on a skillet 1 min/side, spoon ¾ cup chicken per bun, top with 2 tbsp coleslaw.

Low-Carb & Keto — Lettuce Wraps or Keto Buns

This serving idea can keep carbs low while still delivering all flavor.

Making: Spoon warm chipotle chicken into large romaine leaves or pre-toasted keto buns, top with sliced avocado and lime.

Meal Prep Power Bowls — Cauliflower Rice + Roasted Veg

It builds a balanced, protein-forward lunch that reheats well.

Making: Divide cauliflower rice, 1 cup roasted vegetables (bell pepper, zucchini), and 1 cup chipotle chicken into 4 containers. Top with cilantro and lime wedge.

Related: Kolkata Style Chicken Kathi Roll Recipe

Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Sloppy Joes — Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Add all ingredients, pressure cook on High for 12 minutes, quick release, shred, and simmer on Sauté for 3–5 minutes to thicken. This preserves the smoky chipotle flavor while delivering a true weeknight dinner in under 30 minutes.
Use 1 chipotle pepper + 1–2 tsp adobo sauce for mild, 2 peppers for medium, 3+ for hot. To keep the smoke with less heat, add ½–1 tsp smoked paprika and reduce chipotle.
Thighs are juicier and harder to overcook; breasts are leaner and lower in fat. For the best of both, use a 50/50 mix to balance high protein with tenderness.
For consistent food safety, thaw first in the fridge overnight. If using frozen, cook on LOW 6–7 hours and confirm an internal temp of 165°F / 74°C before shredding.
  • Brioche for a rich, soft bite.
  • Whole wheat for fiber and balanced macros.
  • Gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps for GF/low-carb options.
Toast lightly to prevent sogginess and add crunch.
Swap ketchup for a no-sugar-added brand, use lettuce wraps or keto buns, and sweeten with a keto sweetener. Serve over cauliflower rice for a satisfying bowl.
The chicken mixture is naturally GF if your ketchup, Worcestershire, and broth are certified GF. Use GF buns or serve as a bowl over rice or quinoa.
Use young jackfruit or lentils + chopped mushrooms. Keep the same sauce; simmer 8–10 minutes to thicken. Great for Meatless Monday and mixed-diet households.
For thicker sauce, simmer uncovered 8–10 minutes after shredding. For extra saucy, add ½ cup tomato sauce + ¼ cup ketchup and heat 5 minutes.
  • Fridge: 3–4 days in airtight containers.
  • Freeze: Up to 3 months; thaw overnight.
  • Reheat: Stovetop on low with a splash of broth; microwave in 45-sec bursts, stirring.
Per serving (without bun): ~310 kcal, high protein. Lighten further by using chicken breasts, low-sugar ketchup, and serving on whole-grain or lettuce wraps.
Cook until the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F / 74°C. Always verify with a thermometer before shredding.
Yes. HIGH 2–3 hours or LOW 4–6 hours. For ultra-tender shreds, prefer LOW.
Use 1 chipotle, add 1–2 tsp honey for balance, and serve with creamy coleslaw or cheese to mellow heat.
Use boneless thighs on sale, bulk-buy pantry sauces, and make slider-size portions for gatherings. Leftovers double as meal prep lunches, reducing waste and total cost.
Top with creamy coleslaw, pickles, pepper jack, or avocado. For game day sliders, add pickled jalapeños and bake as a pull-apart tray.
Stir in a 1–2 tsp strong brewed coffee or a dash of cocoa powder while thickening; it boosts savoriness and smoke notes.
Yes. Whisk sauce ingredients and refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze 2 months. Morning of, pour over chicken and slow cook—perfect for busy schedules.

Suggested: White Bean Caprese Salad Recipe

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