If you are craving a comforting twist on classic sloppy joes, the Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. This delightful dish takes the beloved flavors of Italian chicken parmesan and transforms them into a messy, cheesy sandwich that’s bursting with savory goodness. Juicy ground chicken, rich marinara sauce, and a melty blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese come together perfectly to create a meal that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare. Whether you’re feeding the family on a weeknight or impressing friends with something unexpected, these sloppy joes bring all the warm, hearty flavor you love with a fun, casual spin.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe is surprisingly simple, but every component plays a crucial role in building layers of texture and flavor. From the lean ground chicken that keeps things light yet protein-packed to the herbs and cheeses that add warmth and depth, each ingredient is essential to creating that perfect balance.
- Ground chicken: The lean protein base that makes these sloppy joes lighter than the traditional beef version.
- Olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic to bring out their natural sweetness and aroma.
- Finely chopped onion: Adds savory depth and a subtle bite that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Minced garlic: Provides a fragrant boost that makes the dish unmistakably Italian-inspired.
- Marinara sauce: The tomato-rich heart of the recipe that keeps everything saucy and flavorful.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and adds a thick, luscious texture.
- Dried basil: Infuses an herbaceous note that brightens the sauce.
- Dried oregano: Adds a classic Italian earthiness that rounds out the flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance every ingredient.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully into the sauce for gooey, cheesy goodness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty contrast that elevates the cheesy layer.
- Hamburger buns: Soft and sturdy bread that holds the juicy filling without falling apart.
- Butter (optional): Adds richness and crispness if you choose to toast the buns.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional): For a fresh, colorful garnish to brighten each sandwich.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped onion and cook it gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds more. This delicate step brings out the natural sweetness of the aromatics, forming a fragrant foundation for your sloppy joe filling.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Chicken
Next, add the ground chicken to the skillet. Season it generously with salt and pepper to taste. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks. Allow it to brown evenly, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. The goal here is to develop a savory crust that adds texture and deep flavor before the sauce is introduced.
Step 3: Simmer with Tomatoes and Herbs
Once the chicken is cooked through, stir in the marinara sauce and tomato paste, mixing well to coat the meat evenly. Sprinkle in the dried basil and oregano, then reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. This simmering allows the sauce to thicken just enough to create that perfect sloppy joe consistency while the herbs infuse the filling with their classic Italian aroma.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Turn off the heat and immediately stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses. The residual warmth melts the cheeses, transforming the mixture into a rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy filling. Give it a good stir so every bite promises gooey goodness.
Step 5: Toast the Buns and Assemble
While the filling is simmering, take a moment to toast your hamburger buns in a skillet with a little butter if you like them crispy and golden. Toasted buns add a wonderful textural contrast and help prevent sogginess. Spoon the hot chicken parmesan mixture generously onto the bottom halves of the buns, add any extra cheese or herbs you love, and then crown with the top halves. Your Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe is ready to devour!
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up your sandwiches with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley. These vibrant herbs not only add a pop of color but also a fresh, herbaceous flavor that balances the richness of the cheesy filling beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve these sloppy joes alongside a crisp green salad or some lightly roasted vegetables for a meal that feels complete without being too heavy. For more indulgence, classic French fries or even garlic Parmesan potato wedges are fantastic companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to switch things up? Try spooning the filling over toasted garlic bread instead of buns, or use ciabatta rolls for a more rustic vibe. You can also pile the filling over a bed of pasta or zucchini noodles for a fun deconstructed entrée that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making reheated portions even tastier.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Transfer the cooled filling into a freezer-safe container or bag, label it, and freeze for up to 2 months. To use, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to keep that cheesy goodness perfect for the next serving.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and will give you a similarly light and protein-rich base for the sandwich filling. Just cook it the same way, adjusting seasoning as needed.
Is this recipe spicy?
Nope! This Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe is mild and savory, so it’s perfect for all ages or anyone who prefers less heat. You can always add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a little kick.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the hamburger buns for your favorite gluten-free rolls or sandwich bread. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free, assuming your marinara sauce and tomato paste don’t contain any gluten additives.
What cheese can I use if I don’t have mozzarella or Parmesan?
While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, you can experiment with other melting cheeses like provolone or Asiago. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly.
How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?
Toasting the buns with a bit of butter adds a delicious crunch and creates a barrier that prevents the sandwich from becoming soggy. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels special without any fuss. It brings together familiar Italian flavors in a friendly, casual sandwich format that everyone will devour. Once you try it, I have no doubt it will earn a spot in your regular meal rotation. So grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy a cheesy, saucy, and downright delicious meal that’s perfect any day of the week!
Print
Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Description
Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes are a tasty twist on the classic sloppy joe, featuring ground chicken simmered in a rich marinara sauce with Italian herbs and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Served on toasted hamburger buns, this easy-to-make dish provides a cheesy, satisfying meal perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Buns and Garnish
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for toasting buns)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Ground Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken, breaking it up with a spoon, for about 6 to 8 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Add Sauce and Herbs: Stir in the marinara sauce, tomato paste, dried basil, and dried oregano. Mix well. Let the mixture simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Melt the Cheeses: Stir shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan into the chicken mixture until the cheeses melt completely and the mixture is creamy.
- Toast Buns (Optional): While the filling simmers, optionally toast the hamburger buns in a skillet with a little butter until golden brown for added texture and flavor.
- Assemble Sloppy Joes: Spoon the cheesy chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add extra cheese or fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired. Cover with the top bun and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For an upgraded version, use toasted garlic bread or ciabatta rolls instead of regular hamburger buns.
- This recipe works just as well with ground turkey as a substitute for ground chicken.
- Adjust seasoning and herbs to your preference for a more personalized flavor.
- Leftover filling can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop.
