Name: Creamy Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes for a Cozy Night In
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken (Can substitute with ground turkey.); 1 tablespoon olive oil (Can substitute with butter.); 1 medium onion (Finely chopped.); 2 cloves garlic (Minced.); 1 cup heavy cream (Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.); 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Can replace with mozzarella or low-fat cheese.); 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (Substitute with dried oregano and basil.); to taste salt; to taste pepper; 4 buns hamburger buns (Whole wheat or gluten-free can be used.); optional fresh parsley (For garnish.)

The aroma wafting from the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water: tender, seasoned ground chicken mingling with a creamy Alfredo sauce, all nestled in a perfectly toasted bun. If you’re tired of the same old dinner routine, let me introduce you to my twist on a classic comfort food—Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes! This quick meal marries the rich flavors of Italian cooking with the casual fun of a Sloppy Joe, making it just as perfect for busy weeknights as it is for relaxed gatherings with loved ones. Plus, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser and encourages creative variations—think sautéed veggies or different cheese options! Are you ready to dive into this deliciously messy experience?

What Makes These Sloppy Joes Special?

Creamy Comfort: The rich, luscious flavor of Alfredo sauce elevates the classic Sloppy Joe experience, making it a comforting meal everyone will love.
Quick to Prepare: With minimal prep work, you can whip these up in about 30 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights!
Versatile Options: Feel free to mix it up by adding sautéed peppers or opting for shredded rotisserie chicken to save time.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This unique fusion is not just a meal; it’s a fun, messy delight that will win over kids and adults alike, similar in spirit to Cheesy Garlic Chicken or our flavorful Jalapeno Popper Chicken Soup.
Easy to Customize: Customize ingredients with your favorite cheeses or throw in some veggies for extra nutrition—endless possibilities await!

Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joe Mixture

Ground Chicken – Provides the protein base. Can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
Olive Oil – Used for sautéing aromatics. Can substitute with butter for additional flavor.
Onion – Adds sweetness and depth. Use shallots for a milder taste.
Garlic – Enhances flavor with a robust aroma. Fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.

For the Creamy Sauce

Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, creamy sauce that makes Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes feel indulgent. Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds creamy texture and sharp flavor. Can replace with mozzarella or a low-fat cheese alternative.
Italian Seasoning – Provides herbaceous notes. Substitute with dried oregano and basil if unavailable.
Salt and Pepper – For seasoning to taste.

For Serving

Hamburger Buns – The base for assembly. Whole wheat or gluten-free buns can be used.
Fresh Parsley – For garnish, adding a fresh touch. Omit if unavailable.

Feel free to gather these ingredients and prepare yourself for a delightful cooking experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Toss in 2 minced garlic cloves, stirring continuously for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This builds a flavorful base for your Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Next, add 1 pound of ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the chicken is completely browned and no longer pink. This will ensure your Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes are tender and juicy, ready to be transformed into a delicious creamy filling.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
Reduce the heat to low, and slowly mix in 1 cup of heavy cream, allowing it to warm through. Gradually sprinkle in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and creates a silky sauce—about 2-3 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste, achieving that classic Chicken Alfredo flavor to envelop your filling.

Step 4: Assemble Sloppy Joes
While the filling simmers, toast your hamburger buns until golden brown. Spoon a generous portion of the Chicken Alfredo mixture onto the bottom half of each bun, ensuring ample sauce for that creamy goodness. Place the top halves of the buns over the mixture, completing your Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes and preparing them for serving.

Step 5: Serving
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley on each Sloppy Joe for a pop of color and freshness. Serve these delicious Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes warm, alongside crispy fries or a refreshing garden salad, making for a complete meal that’s as comforting as it is satisfying.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes are fantastic for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the creamy chicken mixture up to 3 days in advance—just sauté the onions, garlic, and ground chicken, then stir in the Alfredo sauce and let it cool before refrigerating in an airtight container. To maintain quality, store your toasted hamburger buns separately to avoid sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken mixture in a skillet until warmed through, and assemble it on the buns for a quick dinner that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes

Mix It Up: Consider adding chopped bell peppers or spinach to your chicken mixture for added nutrition without compromising flavor.
Avoid Sogginess: Store buns separately from the Chicken Alfredo mix to keep them from getting soggy; assemble just before serving.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with various cheeses, like cream cheese or mozzarella, to find your perfect flavor combination in the Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes.
Timing Matters: Cook the chicken thoroughly before adding the sauce; undercooked chicken can lead to a less than ideal texture and flavor.
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a delightful kick, balancing the creaminess of the Chicken Alfredo perfectly.

Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Variations

Explore the delightful ways to customize your Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes, bringing fun and creativity to your dinner table!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a creamy alternative that adds a delightful twist.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in cream cheese for an extra decadence, yielding an irresistibly creamy filling that enhances flavors.
Veggie-Packed: Toss in sautéed bell peppers and spinach for added color and nutrients that warmly complement the dish.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture for a spicy, flavor-packed version—perfect for heat lovers!
Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and let it simmer on low for 4 hours. You’ll enjoy a truly hands-off cooking experience!
Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by swapping in shredded rotisserie chicken, making it a quick meal full of flavor that’s ready in no time.
Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika or chipotle seasoning to the sauce for an exciting depth of flavor reminiscent of grilled dishes.

For even more inspiration, consider some delightful sides like our Cheesy Garlic Chicken or a cozy bowl of Jalapeno Popper Chicken Soup. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

What to Serve with Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes

Looking to create a delightful spread that elevates your Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes into a full meal experience?

Crispy French Fries: Golden, crunchy fries add the perfect salty contrast to the rich, creamy sauce of your Sloppy Joes.
Garden Salad: A fresh salad, loaded with vibrant greens and tangy vinaigrette, balances the heartiness of the dish for a well-rounded meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring a delightful caramelization and earthy flavor, harmonizing beautifully with the creamy filling.
Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread is a comforting side and a great option for soaking up any Alfredo sauce that escapes the Sloppy Joe.
Coleslaw: A crisp and tangy slaw can balance the richness of the creamy chicken, providing a refreshing crunch on the side.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: A tall glass of refreshing iced tea or zesty lemonade makes for a great drink pairing to cleanse the palate.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm cookies; their gooey chocolate pairs perfectly after a savory feast!
Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: Stretchy and cheesy, these breadsticks are a fun twist to accompany your sandwiches and are irresistible when dipped in Alfredo sauce.
Baked Sweet Potato Wedges: Sweet and savory, they add a touch of sweetness while complementing the flavors of the Chicken Alfredo filling.

Storage Tips for Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes

Fridge: Store any leftover Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the filling is cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken mixture (without buns) in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat the chicken mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of cream if needed for creaminess. Assemble on fresh buns just before serving.

Buns: To keep the buns fresh, store them at room temperature in a bread bag, separately from the chicken mix, and consume within 2 days for optimal texture.

Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe FAQs

What type of ground chicken should I use?
Absolutely go for the leanest ground chicken you can find for a healthier meal, or opt for ground turkey as an excellent alternative! If you enjoy a different flavor profile, ground beef or shredded rotisserie chicken also works well in this recipe.

How should I store leftover Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes?
For sure! Store any leftover Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the chicken mixture and buns separate to maintain that delightful texture of your buns!

Can I freeze the Chicken Alfredo filling?
Definitely! To freeze the chicken mixture, let it cool completely and then transfer it to a sealed freezer bag or airtight container. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stovetop.

What if my Alfredo sauce is too thick?
Very good question! If your sauce ends up thicker than you’d like, simply add a splash of chicken broth or a little more heavy cream while stirring on low heat until you achieve the desired consistency. This will help ensure your Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes are creamy and luscious!

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, indeed! To make it gluten-free, just use gluten-free hamburger buns and ensure that any sauces or condiments you use are certified gluten-free. It’s super easy to adapt this recipe to fit dietary needs without losing any of that delicious flavor!

Can I use vegan substitutes for this recipe?
Yes, you can! For a vegan version, substitute ground chicken with a mix of lentils and diced mushrooms. Use coconut cream or cashew cream for the sauce, along with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Enjoy this comforting meal without any animal products!