These Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes put a twist on the classic! Soft buns are filled with creamy Alfredo sauce and tender chicken, making each bite super tasty.
Forget the messy hands; I love how easy it is to enjoy this dish without any fuss. Pair it with a simple salad, and you’ve got a fun meal anytime! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken is a light and lean choice for this recipe, but if you want a richer taste, you can use ground turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Alfredo Sauce: Store-bought Alfredo works in a pinch, but homemade is usually creamier and tastier. If you’re looking for a lighter version, try using a cauliflower-based Alfredo or a simple white sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: I prefer freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. In a pinch, regular grated Parmesan works too. You can substitute nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Onion and Garlic: Yellow or white onions are great choices here. If you’re in a hurry, onion powder or garlic powder can work as a substitute, just use about 1/2 tsp for each.
Optional Ingredients: The crushed red pepper flakes add a hint of spice. Feel free to adjust according to your taste or skip them for a milder version. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness, but dried parsley works as well.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground chicken can be tricky, but it’s simple when you follow a few tips:
- Always use medium heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Rushing this step can lead to uneven cooking.
- Break the chicken apart in the skillet with a spatula, making sure no pink remains. Look for a golden brown color as a sign of doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure; the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Following these tips will help you achieve a tender, juicy filling for your sloppy joes!
Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Mixture:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 4 hamburger buns
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lettuce leaves (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This will give a lovely base flavor to your sloppy joes!
2. Cooking the Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute or until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter!
3. Cooking the Chicken:
Now, add the ground chicken to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, breaking the chicken into small pieces until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink.
4. Mixing in the Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the Alfredo sauce and Parmesan cheese. Mix everything well and let it heat through until the chicken is nicely coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed!
5. Preparing the Buns:
If you like, you can lightly toast the hamburger buns on a skillet or in the oven for a crispier texture.
6. Assembling the Sloppy Joes:
Take the bottom half of each bun and spoon a generous amount of the creamy chicken Alfredo mixture onto it. Make sure it’s nice and heaping!
7. Adding Fresh Ingredients:
Garnish your sloppy joes with chopped fresh parsley and add a crispy lettuce leaf if you’d like. This adds a fresh crunch!
8. Serving Up:
Finally, place the top bun on and serve immediately. These tasty Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes are sure to be a hit!
Enjoy your rich, creamy twist on sloppy joes with tender chicken and Alfredo flavor!
Can I Use Pre-cooked Chicken Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just skip the cooking step for the chicken and mix it directly with the Alfredo sauce and other ingredients until heated through.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you’re looking for more heat, you can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture. Jalapeños or diced green chilies also work well for a kick!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it on the stove before serving. Toast the buns just before serving for the best texture.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with These Sloppy Joes?
These Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes pair well with a fresh salad, crunchy coleslaw, or some sweet potato fries. You could also serve them with steamed broccoli for a healthier side option!