If you’re craving a comforting twist on a classic sandwich, this Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe is exactly what your taste buds need. Imagine tender ground chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, all piled high on a soft bun that soaks up every delicious bite. It’s a delightful fusion of familiar flavors with an irresistible creamy texture that makes this dish a standout weeknight meal or a fun way to impress friends and family without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, familiar, and each one plays a vital role in building the luscious layers of flavor and texture that make this dish unforgettable. From the savory ground chicken to the creamy Parmesan-packed sauce, every component works together to create a perfect balance.
- 1 pound ground chicken: The lean protein base that keeps the dish light yet hearty.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics perfectly.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides a sweet, fragrant foundation to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of savory depth that wakes up the entire dish.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to that ultra-creamy Alfredo texture everyone loves.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings nutty, salty richness and helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs that brightens and rounds out the flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s natural flavor.
- 4 chicken hamburger buns: Soft buns that hold the saucy filling without falling apart.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that lightens the dish.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once warm, toss in the finely chopped onion and cook it gently until it turns translucent and soft, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and stir it in, cooking for just another minute to release that irresistible aroma without burning it.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Chicken
Next, add the ground chicken to the skillet. Break it apart gently with a spoon as it cooks, stirring frequently until it’s no longer pink – this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through but still juicy to keep the texture of the dish just right.
Step 3: Make it Creamy and Flavorful
Lower the heat to prevent boiling, then pour in the heavy cream followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes thick and creamy, roughly 2 to 3 minutes. Season this heavenly mixture with the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, tasting as you go to get it just right for your palate.
Step 4: Assemble Your Sloppy Joes
While the sauce finishes up, toast the chicken hamburger buns lightly so they achieve a little crunch but remain soft inside. Spoon generous amounts of the creamy chicken Alfredo mixture onto the bottom halves of the buns. Finish each with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a burst of brightness and color before topping with the bun’s top halves.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley as a garnish is such a simple step but it really elevates the dish with its clean, herbaceous punch. You can also try a sprinkle of additional Parmesan or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to enhance the richness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides that contrast the creamy texture. Consider a crunchy green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, garlic roasted vegetables, or even a classic side of baked sweet potato fries for a comforting meal that feels well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress a bit more, serve the Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes as sliders at a party or stack the mixture over grilled polenta slices instead of buns for a low-carb alternative. You can also turn it into a pasta bake by mixing the saucy chicken with cooked penne and topping with mozzarella before baking until bubbly and golden.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for meal prepping lunches or dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well! Allow the chicken Alfredo mixture to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the mixture gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the creamy texture. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Toast fresh buns just before assembling for that perfect just-made feel.
FAQs
Can I use another type of ground meat instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or lean ground pork would work wonderfully in this Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s a fantastic meal prep option because the creamy chicken mixture keeps well in the fridge and can be quickly reheated for tasty lunches or dinners.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with a coconut milk cream or a dairy-free creamer and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!
What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the chicken?
Reheating over low heat on the stove with a little extra cream or milk added back will keep the sauce silky and prevent the chicken from drying out.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Diced mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers can be sautéed with the onions to add extra flavor and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe is such a joyful way to bring comfort food magic to your table with a fresh twist. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser that stands out, this recipe hits all the right notes—creamy, savory, and irresistibly tender. Give it a try, share it with your loved ones, and watch how quickly it becomes a new favorite in your recipe lineup!
Print
Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes combine the creamy richness of classic Alfredo sauce with flavorful ground chicken, creating a deliciously unique twist on a traditional favorite. This easy skillet recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, featuring tender sautéed chicken in a cheesy Parmesan cream sauce served on toasted hamburger buns and garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 chicken hamburger buns
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Cook chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through.
- Add creamy sauce: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Assemble sandwiches: Lightly toast the chicken hamburger buns to your liking. Spoon the creamy chicken Alfredo mixture over the bottom halves of the buns. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the sauce will be less creamy.
- Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best melting and flavor results.
- Toast the buns just before serving to ensure they stay crispy and warm.
- Ground turkey can be used as an alternative to chicken if preferred.
