If you’re craving a fun twist on a classic favorite, this Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the cozy, comforting flavors of Chicken Parmesan transformed into a messy, saucy sandwich that’s perfect for a casual dinner or a weekend gathering. With juicy ground chicken simmered in rich tomato sauce, a hit of Parmesan, and all the melty mozzarella cheese piled high on soft hamburger buns, every bite bursts with familiar, mouthwatering indulgence. This recipe makes the perfect combination of tender, cheesy, and savory that will quickly become a go-to in your recipe box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe are simple but essential, each bringing a unique contribution to the final dish. From the fragrant olive oil that sautés the onions to the luscious pasta sauce that creates that signature tang, these items come together to deliver an explosion of comforting Italian-inspired flavors in every bite.
- Olive oil: Helps soften the onions and adds a delicate richness to the dish.
- Diced yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed, building the flavor base.
- Ground chicken: The lean protein star that keeps the dish light but hearty.
- Salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- Ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat and spice.
- Pasta sauce: Brings tangy tomato goodness and moisture to the mixture.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Imparts savory, nutty notes that shine through beautifully.
- Hamburger buns: The sturdy and soft vessel to hold all that saucy deliciousness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly on top for that gooey, cheesy finish every Chicken Parmesan lover will adore.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the onions
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced yellow onion and stir frequently. Let the onions cook for about 5 minutes until they soften and turn translucent, releasing their natural sweetness. This step is essential because those tender onions form the flavorful foundation of your Sloppy Joes.
Step 2: Cook the ground chicken
Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as you go. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through and no longer pink — about 6 to 8 minutes. This ensures the meat is juicy and tender, which contrasts beautifully with the tangy sauce to come.
Step 3: Add the pasta sauce and simmer
Pour in the pasta sauce and stir well to combine everything evenly. Reduce the heat to let the mixture gently simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens just the right amount. This slow simmering step is where the real magic of the Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe happens, infusing the meat with that classic Italian taste.
Step 4: Stir in Parmesan cheese
Just before serving, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet and stir it through the sauce and chicken. The cheese melts slightly, enriching the texture and giving the dish that unmistakable Parmesan aroma and flavor, elevating your Sloppy Joes from ordinary to extraordinary.
Step 5: Assemble and top with mozzarella
Spoon the warm chicken mixture onto the bottom halves of the hamburger buns. Generously top each pile with shredded mozzarella cheese so it melts slightly from the heat. Place the top buns to finish your sandwiches, and get ready to enjoy a messy, delicious meal that tastes just like your favorite Chicken Parmesan but in a fun, handheld form.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh and vibrant touch to your Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe, consider garnishing with some freshly chopped basil or a sprinkle of chopped parsley. These herbs brighten up the richness of the sauce and cheese. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can also add a hint of sweetness and complexity to each bite.
Side Dishes
Pair these savory sandwiches with crispy roasted potatoes or golden French fries for a classic combo. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette works well to balance the richness and provide a refreshing contrast. You might also try serving with steamed or roasted veggies like broccoli or green beans to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow guests or your family, try serving the Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe open-faced on toasted buns with extra mozzarella melted under the broiler. You can also transform the filling into a pasta topping or even stuff it inside bell peppers for a different but just as delicious experience. The possibilities are endless and fun to explore!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools down before sealing to keep the flavors fresh and prevent sogginess. The buns are best stored separately to maintain their texture.
Freezing
This filling freezes beautifully for longer storage. Place the cooked chicken mixture in a freezer-safe container or bag, remove as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the texture intact and flavors vibrant.
Reheating
Reheat the frozen or refrigerated filling gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the chicken. Reheat the buns separately in a toaster or oven so they stay fluffy and fresh for assembling your Sloppy Joes again.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a great substitute and will work well in this Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe. Just keep the cooking time similar and season accordingly.
What type of pasta sauce is best to use?
A traditional marinara or a simple tomato basil sauce works best. Choose your favorite jarred sauce or make your own for a fresher taste. Avoid heavily spiced sauces so the Parmesan flavor can shine through.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground chicken for a plant-based meat substitute or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version. Just adjust cooking time as needed and season well for best results.
How can I make this recipe less messy to eat?
Using thicker, sturdier buns and packing the filling carefully helps. Serving it open-faced on toasted buns also cuts down on mess while still delivering all the flavors of the Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! The filling can be cooked and stored in the fridge a day in advance, then simply reheated and assembled when you’re ready to serve. It’s a great make-ahead option for stress-free entertaining.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about bringing together the comfort of Chicken Parmesan with the casual fun of Sloppy Joes, and this Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe captures that perfectly. It’s easy, satisfying, and endlessly delicious — just the kind of meal you want to share with friends and family. So go ahead, give it a try and enjoy all those cozy flavors in a new exciting way!
Print
Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes recipe offers a flavorful twist on the classic sloppy joe by incorporating tender ground chicken simmered in savory pasta sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal, these sandwiches bring the comforting taste of chicken parmesan to a handheld favorite.
Ingredients
Sloppy Joe Mixture
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 lb. ground chicken (preferably ground chicken breast)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups pasta sauce
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
To Serve
- 6 hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Heat the Skillet: Add the olive oil to a large skillet and place it over medium-high heat to warm up the oil for cooking.
- Sauté Onions: Add the diced yellow onions to the skillet and stir frequently. Cook for about 5 minutes until onions soften and become translucent.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook while stirring occasionally for 6 to 8 minutes until the chicken turns completely white and is no longer pink.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Stir in the pasta sauce and Parmesan cheese until well combined. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors together.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon the chicken mixture onto hamburger buns and top each with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese. Serve warm immediately for a gooey, cheesy experience.
Notes
- Use ground chicken breast for a leaner option with tender texture.
- Simmering the sauce helps to intensify flavors and thicken the mixture for easier sandwich assembly.
- You can toast the hamburger buns for extra texture and flavor before assembling.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
