If you’re craving a comfort food mashup that’s both creamy and indulgent, Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes are the answer. This creative take on the classic Sloppy Joe sandwiches combines tender shredded chicken with a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, all piled on a soft bun for the ultimate meal. It’s a twist on the traditional that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
What makes these Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes so special is the combination of flavors. The creamy Alfredo sauce blends perfectly with the savory chicken, creating a velvety filling that’s rich but not overly heavy. With the addition of a little garlic and Parmesan, this recipe offers a creamy, cheesy experience that’s completely irresistible. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day, or casual gatherings, these sandwiches are both filling and full of flavor!
I first made Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes when I was looking for a new way to use up leftover chicken. The idea of adding Alfredo sauce and turning it into a messy, cheesy sandwich was an instant hit. These sandwiches are just the right amount of creamy, cheesy, and hearty, and they’re always a crowd-pleaser!
Why These Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Will Be Your New Favorite
- Comforting and creamy: The creamy Alfredo sauce gives these sloppy joes a rich, comforting texture and flavor that will satisfy all your cravings.
- Quick and easy: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something easy and flavorful.
- Cheesy goodness: With melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, these sandwiches offer all the cheesy goodness you can ask for.
- Customizable: You can adjust the level of garlic, spice, or even add extra veggies to the filling for a personalized touch.
- Perfect for meal prep: These sandwiches are great for making ahead and storing in the fridge or freezer for quick lunches or dinners.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Alfredo Filling:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Sandwiches:
- 4 sandwich buns (brioche or soft rolls work great)
- Extra Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes
- Prepare the chicken Alfredo filling:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. - Add the liquids:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until it starts to thicken. - Add the cheese and seasoning:
Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, allowing them to melt into the sauce. Add the Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. - Add the shredded chicken:
Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and stir to coat the chicken in the creamy Alfredo sauce. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through. - Assemble the sandwiches:
Toast the sandwich buns lightly in the oven or on a griddle for a few minutes. Once toasted, spoon a generous amount of the Chicken Alfredo filling onto the bottom half of each bun. - Garnish and serve:
Sprinkle the sandwiches with extra Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately. - Enjoy:
Your Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes are ready to be devoured! Serve them with a side of crispy fries, salad, or even some garlic bread for the ultimate meal.
Tips
- Use leftover chicken: Rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken works perfectly in this recipe to save time.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the chicken Alfredo mixture if you like a little heat.
- Extra cheese: If you love cheese, feel free to add more mozzarella or a bit of ricotta cheese for extra creaminess.
- Customize the bun: Choose your favorite sandwich buns—soft brioche buns or crusty rolls will hold up well to the creamy filling.
Substitutions and Variations
- Use turkey: You can easily swap out the chicken for turkey, making this a great recipe for Thanksgiving leftovers.
- Add veggies: For extra texture and flavor, add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even roasted bell peppers to the chicken Alfredo mixture.
- Dairy-free version: Use a dairy-free cream and vegan cheese to make this recipe dairy-free for those with dietary restrictions.
Make a Healthier Version
- Lighten the sauce: Use low-fat cream, skim milk, or even a non-dairy milk alternative like almond milk to make the sauce lighter.
- Lean protein: Swap the shredded chicken for lean ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version of this dish.
- Skip the buns: For a low-carb option, serve the Chicken Alfredo mixture over a bed of leafy greens or inside a lettuce wrap.
Closing
And there you have it! Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes are the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and comforting, all in one delicious sandwich. This twist on the classic sloppy joe is quick, easy, and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table. Whether you’re making them for dinner or feeding a crowd, these sandwiches will not disappoint. Don’t forget to let us know how your Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes turn out, and be sure to check out more of our comfort food recipes for even more tasty inspiration!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the Chicken Alfredo filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat it and assemble the sandwiches. - Can I freeze the filling?
Yes, you can freeze the Chicken Alfredo filling for up to 1 month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat and serve with fresh buns. - What other protein can I use?
You can use ground turkey, beef, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a different take on these sandwiches. - How do I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, you can stir in a little bit of cornstarch or flour mixed with water to help thicken the Alfredo mixture. - Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes! Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a bit of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick. - Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making your own. - What kind of buns should I use?
Brioche or soft sandwich buns work great for this recipe. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free buns for a healthier option. - Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers would all be great additions to the Chicken Alfredo mixture. - Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cream, vegan cheese, and plant-based milk to make a dairy-free version of this dish. - Can I serve this with something else?
Serve these sandwiches with a side of crispy fries, a simple salad, or even some garlic bread to complete the meal.