Easy Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes (Creamy 15-Minute Dinner)
If you are looking to switch up your weeknight dinner rotation, these Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes are the answer. Forget the traditional tomato-based sauce; this recipe creates a rich, creamy white twist on the childhood classic. It combines the comfort of messy hand-held sandwiches with the luxurious flavor of Italian pasta night.
The texture is pure comfort. As seen in the photos, the ground chicken is simmered in a thick, velvety Alfredo sauce and loaded with melted mozzarella, creating a gooey filling that clings perfectly to the toasted bun. It is savory, cheesy, and ready in under 20 minutes.
Secrets to the Perfect Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes
Why It Works
This mashup works because the mild flavor of ground chicken is the perfect vehicle for rich sauces. While beef demands a robust tomato sauce, chicken pairs beautifully with the buttery, garlicky notes of Alfredo. The addition of mozzarella cheese creates a gooey binding agent, ensuring the filling stays on the bun rather than dripping out like a soup.
The choice of bun is also critical. A soft, slightly sweet brioche bun (as shown in the image) balances the saltiness of the Parmesan and Alfredo sauce, while toasting it prevents the bread from becoming soggy instantly.
Chef’s Tips
- Toast Your Buns: This is non-negotiable for Sloppy Joes. Butter the cut sides of your buns and toast them in a skillet until golden brown. This creates a crispy barrier that stops the creamy sauce from soaking through immediately.
- Don’t Overcook the Sauce: Since you are using jarred Alfredo (or homemade), you only need to heat it until warm. Boiling it for too long can cause the dairy to separate and become oily.
- Fresh Garnish: This dish is very rich and beige. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil right before serving adds a necessary pop of freshness and color to the presentation.
Serve these with a crisp green salad or garlic parmesan fries for a complete meal.
Storage
Store leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has become too thick. Freezing is not recommended as the cream-based sauce may separate upon thawing.
Substitutions
Meat: Ground turkey is a perfect lean substitute for chicken. Sauce: For a lighter version, use a "light" Alfredo sauce or make a cauliflower-based cream sauce. Buns: Serve on garlic bread slices for an open-faced "Texas Toast" version. Veggies: Sneak in some nutrition by adding chopped spinach or peas to the sauce while simmering.
Ingredients
1 lb
1 teaspoon
1 teaspoon
1 teaspoon
1 cup (jarred or homemade)
1 cup, shredded
1/2 cup, grated
4 buns (brioche recommended), toasted
1 tablespoon, chopped (optional garnish)
1 tablespoon (for toasting buns)
Shopping Tip
For best results, gather all ingredients before you start cooking. Fresh ingredients will give you the most flavorful results.
Instructions
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until fully cooked and no pink remains (about 6-8 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
Reduce heat to medium. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Pour the Alfredo sauce over the chicken. Stir to combine. Let it bubble gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly and heat through.
Turn off the heat. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is gooey and cohesive.
While the chicken cooks, butter the cut sides of the hamburger buns. Toast them in a separate pan or under the broiler until golden brown.
Scoop a generous amount of the cheesy chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun.
Top with fresh parsley if desired and place the top bun. Serve immediately while hot and messy.
Serve this recipe straight from the kitchen for the best taste and texture. It's sure to become a favorite that you'll make again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ What type of ingredients work best for this dish?
Use the freshest ingredients available for the best flavor and texture results.
→ Can I make substitutions?
Yes, feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in the refrigerator and reheat gently to maintain the best texture.
Easy Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes (Creamy 15-Minute Dinner)
If you are looking to switch up your weeknight dinner rotation, these Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes are the answer. Forget the traditional tomato-based sauce; thi
Ingredients
Instructions
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until fully cooked and no pink remains (about 6-8 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
Reduce heat to medium. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Pour the Alfredo sauce over the chicken. Stir to combine. Let it bubble gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly and heat through.
Turn off the heat. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is gooey and cohesive.
While the chicken cooks, butter the cut sides of the hamburger buns. Toast them in a separate pan or under the broiler until golden brown.
Scoop a generous amount of the cheesy chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun.
Top with fresh parsley if desired and place the top bun. Serve immediately while hot and messy.
Rate This Recipe
Tools You'll Need
- Large Skillet
- Wooden Spoon
- Spatula
- Toaster or Griddle (for buns)
- Measuring Cups
Recipe Tags
Welcome to Cozy Bites Kitchen
At Cozy Bites Kitchen, we believe that great food doesn't have to be complicated. Our passion is creating easy, cozy, and delicious homemade recipes for everyday cooking - quick meals, comfort dishes, family dinners, soups, pastas, and simple home-style favorites. Warm, friendly, and fuss-free cooking made for real life.
LEARN MORE
