If you’re craving something fun, comforting, and loaded with creamy goodness, this Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine tender shredded chicken bathed in rich Alfredo sauce, melty mozzarella cheese, and a touch of garlic and onion, all sandwiched between soft, toasted buns. It’s a delightful spin on the traditional sloppy joe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a satisfying meal that feels a little special and a lot delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a pivotal role, delivering layers of flavor, texture, and that irresistible comfort food vibe that makes this dish stand out. From savory sautéed onions to creamy Alfredo sauce and the gooey mozzarella finish, these simple components come together perfectly.
- 1 pound of cooked chicken breast: Shredded or diced, using rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even quicker without sacrificing flavor.
- 1 cup of Alfredo sauce: Choose store-bought for convenience or homemade to add your personal flavor touch.
- 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese: It melts right in, giving extra creaminess and mild flavor that complements the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil: Essential for sautéing the aromatics and adding a light fruity note.
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped: Adds natural sweetness and a subtle crunch when cooked just right.
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Brings that warm, inviting aroma that makes every bite memorable.
- Salt and pepper to taste: The quiet heroes balancing all the flavors.
- 4-6 hamburger buns: Soft, fresh buns provide the perfect vessel to hold all that saucy goodness.
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby note to finish the dish.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and let it soften gently for 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic, cooking for just one more minute until it’s wonderfully fragrant. This mix forms a flavorful base that awakens the senses and sets the tone for the entire dish.
Step 2: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Next, stir in the shredded chicken, making sure it melds well with the softened onions and garlic. Pour the Alfredo sauce right over the top and stir everything together so each piece of chicken is coated in creamy deliciousness. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle and the sauce to thicken slightly. Don’t forget to season everything with salt and pepper to bring out those rich layers.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Once the sauce and chicken have melded beautifully, sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir it gently until the cheese melts completely into the sauce, giving the mixture that luscious, gooey texture that makes this Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe so irresistible.
Step 4: Toast the Buns (Optional)
While the chicken mixture simmers, take a moment to toast your hamburger buns. Whether you prefer the skillet sizzle or a quick broil, toasting adds a bit of crunch and helps the buns stand up to the creamy filling without getting soggy.
Step 5: Assemble the Sloppy Joes
Now for the fun part: spoon generous amounts of the creamy chicken Alfredo mixture onto the bottom halves of your toasted buns. For a burst of freshness and color, sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top before capping each sandwich with the remaining bun halves. These sandwiches are all about indulgence with a twist.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes immediately while warm and gooey. This creamy, savory twist on a classic sloppy joe is sure to bring smiles and satisfied appetites at your table.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil isn’t just for looks — it adds a lovely herbal brightness that elevates the creaminess of the Alfredo sauce. You can also try a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan for an extra cheesy finish.
Side Dishes
Because the Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes are rich and creamy, consider pairing them with lighter sides like crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a tangy coleslaw to create a balanced meal. A pile of sweet potato fries or a simple garlic bread stick also complements the dish wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these sloppy joes open-faced on a thick slice of toasted ciabatta or baguette. Or use slider buns for party-sized portions that everyone can grab easily. You can even turn the mixture into a pasta topping for a cozy, hands-free dinner option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a fantastic option for quick lunches or busy evenings when you want something flavorful without the hassle.
Freezing
If you’d like to extend their life, the chicken mixture freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain its creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts to keep the Alfredo sauce from separating. Adding a splash of milk or cream while reheating can help restore that luscious creaminess you love.
FAQs
Can I use cooked turkey instead of chicken in this Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe?
Absolutely! Cooked, shredded turkey works just as well and adds a slightly different flavor profile that is equally delicious. Just swap it in as a one-to-one substitute.
Is it better to make homemade Alfredo sauce or use store-bought?
Both options work wonderfully depending on your time and taste preferences. Store-bought Alfredo sauce is a fantastic shortcut that still tastes great, while homemade lets you customize the richness and seasoning to your liking.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a crowd?
Yes, you can make the chicken Alfredo mixture a day ahead and gently reheat it before serving. Toast the buns fresh and assemble right before serving to keep everything perfectly tender and warm.
What’s the best way to shred cooked chicken quickly?
Using two forks to pull apart warm cooked chicken is the classic and easiest method. Alternatively, you can pulse chicken breasts in a food processor for a few quick pulses, but be careful not to puree it.
Are there any good cheese alternatives for this recipe?
Definitely! While mozzarella is classic here, you can experiment with cheddar for a sharper bite or provolone for a mild, smoky touch. Just pick cheeses that melt well for the best results.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—a Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe that is creamy, comforting, and downright addictive. If you’re looking to shake up your usual sandwich routine with something quick and full of flavor, this recipe is your new best friend. Give it a try and watch it become an instant favorite around your table!
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Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes are a creamy, savory twist on the classic sloppy joe, combining tender shredded chicken with rich Alfredo sauce, melted mozzarella, and sautéed aromatics served on soft hamburger buns. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a delicious alternative to traditional sloppy joes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken recommended)
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4–6 hamburger buns
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and stir with the onions and garlic. Pour in the Alfredo sauce, stirring well to evenly coat the chicken. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until it melts completely and combines with the sauce, making the mixture creamy and flavorful.
- Toast the Buns (Optional): While the chicken mixture simmers, toast the hamburger buns in a separate skillet or under a broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden brown for added texture.
- Assemble the Sloppy Joes: Spoon a generous portion of the creamy chicken Alfredo mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, then top with the other half of the bun.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes warm for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or substitute with cooked turkey.
- Homemade Alfredo sauce made from heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese can be used for a richer flavor.
- Cheese variations like cheddar or provolone work well if you want a different taste profile.
- Toast buns for extra texture but this step is optional.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- For a lighter option, consider using low-fat mozzarella and Alfredo sauce variations.
