Transform your weeknight dinner with these indulgent Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes that combine the beloved messiness of classic sloppy joes with the rich, creamy elegance of chicken alfredo. This innovative fusion creates a satisfying comfort meal that’s both familiar and exciting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish delivers the best of both worlds: the casual, hands-on fun of sloppy joes with the sophisticated flavors of alfredo sauce. The tender ground chicken, aromatic garlic, and velvety parmesan cream sauce create a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and restaurant-quality. Perfect for busy families, casual entertaining, or anyone craving a creative twist on classic comfort food.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Mixture:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 4 brioche or hamburger buns
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Create the Alfredo Sauce
Reduce heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth (about 2-3 minutes). Add Italian seasoning and adjust salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to reach desired consistency.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Lightly toast the buns in a dry skillet or toaster for extra texture. Spoon generous portions of the chicken alfredo mixture onto the bottom halves of the buns. Top with the other bun halves and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately while hot.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect Pairings:
- Crispy sweet potato fries or regular french fries
- Fresh garden salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus
- Garlic bread for extra indulgence
Recipe Variations
Add Vegetables: Stir in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or fresh spinach when cooking the onions for extra nutrition and flavor.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the alfredo sauce for heat.
Lighter Option: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
Cheese Variations: Try a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella, or add a touch of cream cheese for extra richness.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken alfredo mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep buns separate to prevent sogginess.
Reheating: Warm the mixture gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to restore creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval.
Assembly: Always use fresh buns when reheating leftovers for the best texture and taste.
Recipe Notes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serves: 4
Pro Tips:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, most flavorful sauce
- Don’t let the alfredo sauce boil, as this can cause it to separate
- Toast the buns lightly to help them hold up to the creamy filling
- Have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking for smooth execution
These Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes prove that comfort food can be both familiar and surprising. The creamy, savory filling paired with soft buns creates a satisfying meal that will quickly become a family favorite.
