If you love the comforting classics but crave something with a creamy and savory twist, you are going to adore these Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes. This dish takes tender ground chicken and brings it together with a luscious Alfredo sauce, melding savory garlic, Parmesan, and Italian herbs into one irresistible filling. Nestled inside toasted burger buns, these sloppy joes redefine what a sloppy joe can be—rich, satisfying, and utterly delicious in every bite. Trust me, once you try Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes, they’ll quickly become one of your absolute favorite weeknight meals to whip up and share.

Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s wonderful about this recipe is how its simple ingredients come together to create a dish full of flavor, texture, and that creamy richness that makes Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes stand out. Each component plays its part—from the ground chicken providing a lean protein base to the Parmesan cheese delivering that signature cheesy tang.

1 pound ground chicken: Lean and versatile, this creates a tender meat base that absorbs all the flavors beautifully.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics and adding a subtle fruity note.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to every bite.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a punch of savory, aromatic flavor that’s essential in Alfredo sauces.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy, dreamy texture that coats the chicken perfectly.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and a rich cheesy melt that binds the sauce together.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A wonderful blend of herbs that uplifts the entire dish with hints of oregano and basil.
Salt and pepper to taste: To enhance and balance all the flavors.
4 hamburger buns: Toasted to golden perfection—the ideal vessel for this creamy filling.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbaceous brightness at the end.

How to Make Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

Start by warming olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; this is where the magic begins. Toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. Adding minced garlic next lets its aroma infuse the base; cook it just until fragrant so it doesn’t burn. Then, add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with your spoon as it browns evenly. It will take about 5 to 7 minutes, and you want to make sure it’s fully cooked with no pink left. This savory foundation is what anchors the creamy sauce later on.

Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Lower the heat and carefully pour the heavy cream into the skillet, letting it mingle with the cooked chicken and onions. Slowly sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring to meld everything into a smooth, creamy sauce. This step is where the sauce thickens and gets that signature richness that defines Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes. Add the Italian seasoning to introduce that herby warmth, and then season with salt and pepper to your liking. If the sauce seems too thick, a splash of water or chicken broth can loosen it just enough — keeping everything saucy and delicious.

Step 3: Assemble the Sloppy Joes

While your sauce simmers, toast your hamburger buns lightly either in a skillet or toaster—this step adds crunch and helps prevent sogginess. Generously spoon the creamy chicken Alfredo mixture onto the bottom halves of the buns, making sure each bite will have plenty of luscious sauce. Feel free to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for some added cheesy goodness. Then crown each with the top bun and get ready to dig in!

How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley is a perfect finishing touch. It adds a sudden pop of green color and a subtle herbaceous note that brightens the richness of the Alfredo sauce without overpowering that creamy sensation you love. A light sprinkle makes these sloppy joes not only tastier but visually inviting.

Side Dishes

Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes pair wonderfully with classic sides like crispy fries or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. For a lighter option, some steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, add color and nutrition that complements the dish perfectly. These sides round out your meal making it both comforting and well-balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, consider serving the filling open-faced on artisan rolls or even as a warm slider for parties. You can also top the mixture with sautéed mushrooms or roasted peppers for added depth and texture. For the adventurous, layering Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes inside a grilled sandwich with a little extra mozzarella turns it into an ooey-gooey delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, keep the chicken Alfredo mixture in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. To prevent buns from turning soggy, store them separately. This way you can enjoy all the creamy goodness fresh whenever you want a quick meal.

Freezing

The chicken Alfredo filling freezes well in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When you want to reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results. Keep the buns out of the freezer to maintain their texture and toast fresh ones when you serve.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the sauce gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to bring back that creamy consistency without drying it out. You can also microwave it covered in short bursts, stirring in between. Then assemble sandwiches with fresh buns for a meal that tastes almost as good as when you first made it.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and offers a similar mild flavor that lets the creamy Alfredo sauce shine. Just cook it thoroughly as you would the chicken.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute along with nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. It won’t be quite the same, but still deliciously creamy.

How can I add some spice to Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes?

A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes during the Alfredo sauce step or a drizzle of hot sauce on the finished sandwich can add a lovely kick without overpowering the creamy flavors.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the chicken Alfredo mixture a day ahead and simply reheat when ready. Just remember to toast buns fresh to maintain the best texture and flavor.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

Parmesan is classic for Alfredo sauce because it melts smoothly and adds distinct sharpness, but you could also try Asiago or Romano for subtle differences. Avoid cheeses that get stringy or greasy.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes are seriously a game-changer when it comes to quick dinners that feel special. Creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor, they bring an exciting twist to the traditional sloppy joe concept. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or you’re feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to bring smiles and satisfy those cravings in a delightfully comforting way. Give it a try and I promise it’ll become an instant favorite in your recipe rotation!

Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 13 reviews

Author: Marina
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

Indulge in a creamy and savory twist on a classic favorite with these Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes. Ground chicken is cooked with onions and garlic, then enveloped in a rich Alfredo sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, seasoned with Italian herbs and served on toasted hamburger buns for a deliciously satisfying meal.

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken Mixture: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until no longer pink and fully cooked through, stirring occasionally.
Making the Alfredo Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the chicken and onion mixture. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until well combined. If too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach desired consistency.
Assembling the Sloppy Joes: Prepare the hamburger buns by toasting them lightly on a skillet or in a toaster. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken Alfredo mixture onto the bottom half of each bun, ensuring a good amount of sauce and chicken. Top with the other half of the bun. Optionally, add extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Serving Suggestions: Place the assembled Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes on a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with crispy fries, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy warm!

Notes

For added nutrition, consider incorporating chopped bell peppers or spinach when sautéing the onions.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce.
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a low-fat cream alternative for a lighter version.
Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cream cheese for a unique flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing, Simmering
Cuisine: American