Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe
Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, pillowy bun overflowing with creamy, cheesy chicken. That’s exactly what you get with Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes—a playful spin on the traditional sloppy joe, turned decadently savory with its rich Alfredo sauce, melty cheeses, and fresh basil. This comfort food mash-up takes the familiar, hearty goodness of a classic joe, loads it with Italian-inspired flair, and delivers a truly unforgettable homemade treat. If cozy weeknight dinners and family-pleasing flavors are your jam, this is a recipe you absolutely can’t miss!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes is how straightforward the ingredient list is—even though each one plays a starring role in creating that signature taste and luscious texture. These essentials come together quickly, but don’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction!
- Ground chicken: Perfectly tender and lean, it soaks up the rich Alfredo and makes the filling irresistibly hearty.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Adds a gentle sweetness and soft texture that melds seamlessly with the sauce.
- Garlic, minced: Just two cloves ramp up the savory aroma and give a foundation of flavor you can’t skip.
- Alfredo sauce: The dreamy, creamy base—choose quality store-bought or homemade for maximum flavor.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts smoothly for stretchy, gooey bites and gentle richness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Salty and nutty, this cheese deepens the Alfredo vibe and brings umami to the table.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing all the savory, creamy notes in the filling.
- Hamburger buns, toasted: A sturdy, golden base to soak up every last drop of goodness—don’t skip the toasting!
- Fresh basil, chopped: A sprinkle at the end wakes up the whole sandwich with bright color and a burst of herbal freshness.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes
Step 1: Cook the Chicken and Onions
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat, then toss in your ground chicken and finely chopped onion. Stir and break up the chicken until it’s no longer pink and the onion turns tender and translucent. This step is key, because you want all those savory flavors to meld before adding anything creamy or cheesy!
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Sprinkle in your minced garlic and let it sizzle for about a minute. As soon as you catch that irresistible aroma, you’ll know it’s releasing all its wonderful flavor into the chicken and onions. Avoid letting the garlic brown so it stays mellow and sweet.
Step 3: Simmer with Alfredo Sauce
Pour in the Alfredo sauce and mix it up so every piece of chicken gets coated in creamy bliss. Let this simmer for five minutes or so; you want the mixture to thicken just enough to cling to a bun without being runny. The gentle bubbling brings everything together and starts marrying those Italian notes.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses
Sprinkle in your shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, and keep stirring until both cheeses liquefy into the sauce. This is when your filling gets that signature gooey stretch and a depth of savory flavor. Taste and season with salt and pepper to balance everything beautifully.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Pile generous spoonfuls of the rich, cheesy chicken Alfredo mixture onto your toasted buns. Finish with a flurry of freshly chopped basil—its aroma and color instantly liven up the sandwich. Serve immediately so everyone enjoys every last bit of melty, saucy goodness!
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes
Garnishes
Top each Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joe with a shower of chopped fresh basil or even a pinch of crushed red pepper for gentle heat. If you’re feeling extra, a light dusting of extra Parmesan or a sprig of parsley provides that finishing flourish and a gorgeous contrast of color.
Side Dishes
Pair these sandwiches with a big, crisp Caesar salad for a refreshing crunch that cuts through all that creaminess. Garlic roasted potatoes or even oven-baked fries complement the rich filling without overshadowing it. Don’t forget some crisp, tangy pickles as a playful addition!
Creative Ways to Present
Try making mini Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes using slider buns for parties or game nights—they make the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer. If you want a gluten-free option, scoop the filling over roasted portobello mushroom caps or pile it into lettuce wraps for a lighter twist. It’s fun, unexpected, and always gets rave reviews!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes filling keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before storing, and keep the buns and basil separate to avoid sogginess and wilted herbs.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooled filling for up to two months: spoon it into freezer bags, flatten them for quicker thawing, and make sure most of the air is pressed out. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the filling gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring until bubbling and heated through. If the sauce thickens too much, splash in a tablespoon or two of milk to restore its creaminess. Then assemble fresh buns and top with basil as usual.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken for Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken works well—just chop it finely so it melds into the sauce. Since it’s already cooked, add it after the onion and garlic have softened, then continue as directed with the Alfredo sauce and cheeses.
What’s the best Alfredo sauce for this recipe?
Whether you use homemade or your favorite store-bought jar, opt for a sauce with a smooth, creamy consistency and a flavor you love. A sauce with plenty of Parmesan, garlic, and a touch of pepper really shines in these sandwiches.
Can I swap out the mozzarella or Parmesan?
For sure! Try provolone or fontina in place of mozzarella, or use Romano cheese instead of Parmesan for a more robust flavor. Just make sure your cheese choices melt well to keep that luscious texture.
Are Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes good for meal prep?
Definitely! Prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer as described above. All you’ll need to do is reheat and serve on freshly toasted buns for quick, delicious lunches or weeknight dinners.
Can I make this recipe gluten free?
Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free hamburger buns (or serve over potatoes or salad for a bun-less twist) and double-check that your Alfredo sauce is certified gluten free. The filling itself contains no flour, so it adapts easily.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dinner that’s equal parts cozy, creamy, and downright fun, please give Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes a spot on your table. They’re designed to wow both kids and adults, and promise a playful Italian twist on a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again. Happy cooking!
Print
Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Indulge in the delicious fusion of classic sloppy joes and creamy Alfredo sauce with these Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted
- Fresh basil, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground chicken and onion until the chicken is no longer pink and the onion is translucent.
- Add Garlic: Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Simmer with Alfredo: Stir in the Alfredo sauce and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, or until it’s heated through and slightly thickened.
- Melt in Cheeses: Add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until they are melted and the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon the chicken Alfredo mixture onto the toasted hamburger buns, garnish with chopped basil, and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Sloppy Joe
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes, Alfredo sauce, ground chicken, sandwich, Italian-American, comfort food
