These Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on a classic! With creamy Alfredo sauce and tender chicken piled on a soft bun, they’re sure to please everyone.
They’re quick to whip up and perfect for busy nights. I love serving them with a side of veggies—or just a few extra napkins for those messy yet delightful bites! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the dish! You can use turkey or lean beef instead if you prefer. For a lighter option, ground chicken breast works well too, though it may need extra seasoning for flavor.
Alfredo Sauce: Store-bought Alfredo is convenient, but making it at home is easy with just butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. If you’re avoiding dairy, cashew cream or a vegan Alfredo can be a tasty substitute.
Onions and Garlic: Essential for that aromatic base, I love using yellow onions. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder can work in a pinch, but fresh is always best for flavor.
Sandwich Buns: I recommend soft brioche buns for a touch of sweetness. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gf burger buns—there are some great ones available now!
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground chicken can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here’s a simple way to get perfectly cooked chicken:
- Use medium heat to cook; this helps prevent burning while allowing it to cook through.
- Break the meat apart fully, ensuring even cooking and browning. Stir occasionally for best results.
- Cook until the chicken is no longer pink—about 6-8 minutes should do it, but check with a thermometer for 165°F (74°C) if unsure.
Following these tips will help you get juicy, flavorful chicken every time! Enjoy your Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes! 😊
Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 soft sandwich buns or brioche buns
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10-15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a satisfying dish ready in about 20-25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. This adds a lovely sweetness to the dish.
2. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic. Cook for an extra 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Now, add the ground chicken to the skillet. Use a spoon to break the chicken apart as it cooks. Aim for about 6-8 minutes until it’s browned and fully cooked with no pink showing.
4. Season It:
Season the chicken mixture with salt, pepper, and the optional red pepper flakes for a bit of spice. Stir it in and cook for another minute for the flavors to meld.
5. Mix in the Alfredo Sauce:
Pour in the Alfredo sauce, stirring well to combine it with the chicken. Let it simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and slightly thickened.
6. Prepare the Buns:
If you’d like, lightly toast your sandwich buns in another pan or in the toaster to give them a little extra crunch.
7. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
Spoon the creamy chicken Alfredo mixture generously onto the bottom halves of the buns. Don’t be shy with the filling—it’s the best part!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness, then finish with the bun tops. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, savory Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes!
This recipe is not just tasty but also brings a creative twist to a classic favorite. Perfect for gatherings or a family meal!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have pre-cooked chicken, just shred or chop it and skip to step 5. Add it to the onion and garlic mixture for a few minutes, then mix in the Alfredo sauce until everything is heated through.
How Do I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you’d like more heat, you can increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce. Alternatively, mix in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the chicken.
Can I Make the Sauce from Scratch?
Definitely! A simple homemade Alfredo sauce can be made by melting 1/2 cup of butter, adding 1 cup of heavy cream, and whisking in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Sloppy Joes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to the mixture if it thickens too much.