If you’re craving a fun twist on two classic favorites, you’re going to love this Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe. Combining the creamy, dreamy richness of Alfredo sauce with tender shredded chicken, all piled high on soft, toasted buns, this dish takes your usual sloppy joe to a whole new level. It’s comfort food meets elegant flavor in a sandwich that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings where everyone wants something both cozy and exciting. Once you try these, you’ll wonder why no one had thought of this combo sooner!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is refreshingly simple, but each item plays a crucial role in crafting those luscious layers of flavor and texture. From the creamy Alfredo sauce that envelops the chicken, to the fragrant seasonings that add depth, every ingredient counts toward making your Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes unforgettable.
- 1 pound shredded cooked chicken: The hearty protein base that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce: Whether homemade or store-bought, it’s the silky star of the show that makes this sandwich special.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to lightly sauté and bring warmth to the chicken mixture.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle bite and aromatic punch without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings a mellow sweetness that complements the garlic perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essentials for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- 4 burger buns (preferably brioche or soft rolls): Soft yet sturdy enough to hold the creamy filling without falling apart.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a fresh, herbaceous finish that brightens every bite.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Extra cheesy flair that enhances the Alfredo’s rich profile.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe
Step 1: Warm the Olive Oil
Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This gentle warmth prepares the pan to receive the chicken, ensuring every piece gets evenly heated and just the right amount of sizzle to bring out its flavor.
Step 2: Add the Shredded Chicken
Next, toss in that shredded cooked chicken. Stir it around so each tender shred gets coated in the warm olive oil. This step ensures your chicken will absorb all the delicious seasonings that come next, unlocking a depth of flavor that makes the dish irresistible.
Step 3: Season Generously
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken. Stir it well to make sure these simple spices get evenly distributed. This combination adds a savory base and a hint of aromatic warmth that elevates every bite.
Step 4: Mix in Alfredo Sauce and Simmer
Pour in the Alfredo sauce and stir until every shred of chicken is lavishly coated in that creamy white sauce. Reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This period allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken just enough, making the mixture rich and luscious without being runny.
Step 5: Toast the Buns
While the chicken Alfredo mixture simmers, take the time to toast your burger buns. You can do this in a separate skillet or a toaster, aiming for a golden exterior that adds crunch and warmth. This toasting step helps the buns stand up to the creamy filling without getting soggy.
Step 6: Assemble Your Sloppy Joes
Once your chicken mixture is hot and bubbly, spoon generous portions onto the bottom halves of your toasted buns. The creamy chicken should be piled high, making every bite a perfect blend of sauce, chicken, and bread.
Step 7: Add Garnishes
If you’re feeling a little fancy, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken mixture. These finishing touches not only add bursts of color but also layer in an herbal freshness and extra cheesy goodness that make these sloppy joes unforgettable.
Step 8: Top and Serve
Finally, place the top halves of your buns over the filling and press down just slightly. Serve immediately while warm and watch how quickly these creamy, comforting sandwiches disappear.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes like fresh parsley brighten the dish with a pop of green and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy Alfredo sauce. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan not only adds to the flavor but also creates a visually inviting golden layer on top. These small touches turn simple sandwiches into something special that you’ll want to make again and again.
Side Dishes
These sandwiches pair wonderfully with crisp, fresh sides. Think crunchy green salads, roasted veggies, or even some sweet potato fries for a classic comfort meal vibe. The creamy richness of the chicken sloppy joes balances perfectly with anything that has a little crunch or a hint of tang.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, try serving these sloppy joes in mini slider buns for parties or family gatherings. You could also turn the filling into a dip by scooping it into a warm bread bowl or layering it over baked potatoes. The creamy texture lends itself well to creative twists, making this Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe as versatile as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though with this recipe, leftovers rarely last long), store the chicken Alfredo mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for a quick, satisfying lunch the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the chicken Alfredo filling as well. Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain that creamy texture.
Reheating
To reheat leftover Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes, warm the chicken mixture in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. Toast fresh buns to keep that delicious crunch, then assemble as usual. This way, your reheated sloppy joes retain the full comforting flavor and creamy consistency you love.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time without sacrificing flavor. Just shred the meat before adding it to your skillet for quick preparation.
Is it better to use homemade or store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Both work wonderfully here. Store-bought Alfredo sauce offers convenience and consistency, while homemade sauce lets you tailor the flavors and richness exactly to your liking. Either way, your Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes will turn out fantastic.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
To adapt this recipe for dairy-free diets, you can substitute the Alfredo sauce with a plant-based alternative and use vegan buns. For a vegan twist, swap the chicken with shredded jackfruit or a meat substitute to maintain that hearty texture.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture while it simmers. This will give your Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes an exciting kick without overwhelming the creamy base.
What are some good alternatives to burger buns?
Soft rolls are great, but you could also serve this on ciabatta, sourdough, or even inside a pita pocket for a different texture and flavor. The key is to choose a bread sturdy enough to hold up to the creamy chicken.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe enough if you’re looking to shake up your dinner routine with something that’s at once familiar and totally unique. It’s creamy, comforting, and surprisingly simple to put together — perfect for those nights when you want a meal that feels indulgent but actually comes together quickly. So go ahead, treat yourself to this delightful sandwich; I promise you’ll be coming back for seconds!
Print
Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Italian
Description
This Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes recipe combines tender shredded chicken tossed in a creamy Alfredo sauce with savory seasonings, served on toasted burger buns for a comforting and flavorful sandwich. Easy to make in under 35 minutes, this dish offers a delightful twist on classic sloppy joes with an Italian-inspired creamy twist.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 1 pound shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve
- 4 burger buns (preferably brioche or soft rolls)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat to prepare for cooking the chicken mixture.
- Add Chicken: Add the shredded cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine well with the oil.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken, stirring thoroughly to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Add Alfredo Sauce: Pour the Alfredo sauce into the skillet and mix until the chicken is fully coated in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
- Toast Buns: While the chicken marinates, toast the burger buns in a separate skillet or toaster until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Assemble Sloppy Joes: Spoon heaping portions of the creamy chicken Alfredo mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun.
- Add Garnish: If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken mixture for extra flavor and presentation.
- Top Buns: Cover each sandwich with the top half of the bun to complete the sloppy joe.
- Serve: Serve the Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes immediately while warm for the best taste and texture experience.
Notes
- You can use store-bought Alfredo sauce to save time or make your own for a fresher taste.
- For added spice, consider sprinkling red pepper flakes into the chicken mixture.
- Leftover sloppy joe filling can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Brioche buns offer a richer flavor and softer texture but any soft burger buns will work well.
- Adding a slice of mozzarella or provolone cheese on top before closing the bun makes for an extra cheesy sandwich.
