Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe

If you love the comforting flavors of Italian classics but want a fun, messy sandwich experience, then you are going to absolutely adore these Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes. This dish transforms the traditional sloppy joe into a cheesy, savory delight with tender ground chicken simmered in rich marinara sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese right on soft buns. It’s the perfect marriage of Italian flair and American casual dining that will quickly become a go-to weeknight favorite or game day hit. Let me take you through how simple ingredients come together to create this crowd-pleasing, family-friendly dish called Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes plays a vital role in building that bold, comforting flavor and satisfying texture. From the lean ground chicken providing a mild but hearty base to the Italian seasonings adding that classic aromatic touch, these essentials keep the sandwich balanced and delicious.

• 1 teaspoon olive oil: Helps sauté the chicken evenly without adding heaviness.
• 1 pound ground chicken: A lean protein option that soaks up all the savory flavors beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings in fragrant herbs like basil and oregano that make this dish unmistakably Italian-inspired.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, garlicky depth without the fuss of fresh garlic.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a subtle kick that rounds out the seasonings.
• 1 ½ cups marinara sauce: The tomato-based heart of the dish, providing tang and umami.
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty touch melted right into the sauce.
• 6 buns: Soft yet sturdy enough to hold all the saucy goodness.
• 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese: Melts to gooey perfection, making this sandwich irresistibly cheesy.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Cook the Ground Chicken

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to ensure it’s nice and hot to prevent sticking. Add the ground chicken, cooking it while breaking it up with a spoon for an even texture. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and any added onions are translucent, creating a tender and flavorful protein base.

Step 2: Season the Mixture

Once your chicken is cooked, it’s time to add personality to the mix. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to coat every morsel with these fragrant spices that transform the dish from simple to sensational.

Step 3: Add the Marinara Sauce

Pour in the marinara sauce next and bring the entire skillet to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes; this step lets the sauce thicken a bit so it’s perfectly saucy but not runny, which is just right for sandwich filling.

Step 4: Incorporate Parmesan Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This ingredient adds a wonderful depth and creaminess, blending seamlessly into the sauce to elevate the entire dish.

Step 5: Prepare and Broil the Buns with Cheese

Turn your broiler on high and place the buns on an oven-safe dish, cut side up. Toast them lightly until golden, then spoon generous amounts of the chicken mixture onto the bun bottoms. Sprinkle about a quarter cup of mozzarella cheese on top of each filled bun, then place them under the broiler just long enough for the cheese to melt and bubble. Watch carefully – it will only take a couple of minutes!

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Remove the sandwiches from the oven, top each with the bun tops, and prepare for an incredible messy, melty, flavor-packed bite. Serve immediately while warm for the best experience.

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes

Garnishes

To make your Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes even more irresistible, consider adding fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top. These garnishes add a fresh, herby brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, cheesy filling. A little cracked black pepper on top doesn’t hurt either!

Side Dishes

Because this sandwich is wonderfully filling, sides should complement without overpowering. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables provides a fresh balance. Classic potato chips or sweet potato fries bring that satisfying crunch and cozy feel that make mealtime feel complete.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes open-faced with a toothpick to hold it together for a fun appetizer version. You could also turn the filling into a stuffed bell pepper for a low-carb twist or use slider buns for a party platter that everyone can enjoy bite-sized portions of.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the buns separate if possible to avoid sogginess. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat the filling and toast fresh buns.

Freezing

This filling freezes beautifully. Portion out the chicken Parmesan mixture in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the buns to maintain texture. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the filling gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Toast or warm the buns separately before assembling to keep everything fresh and tasty. Add the mozzarella and briefly broil again if you want that melty cheese finish like the first time.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat in Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes?

Absolutely! While ground chicken offers a light and tender texture, ground turkey or lean beef can also work great if you prefer those flavors. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is this recipe spicy?

Nope! Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes have a mild Italian flavor profile. If you want a little heat, you can always add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the buns for your favorite gluten-free bread, and ensure the marinara sauce and seasonings you use do not contain gluten-containing additives.

How many sandwiches does this recipe make?

This recipe yields 6 delicious sandwiches, perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering.

Can I prepare the filling ahead and assemble later?

Yes, you can prepare the filling up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the filling, toast the buns, and assemble with cheese and broil as described.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes are one of those rare recipes that feel like a special occasion but come together easily on a busy night. The combination of tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese sandwiched in a bun is downright addictive. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every saucy, cheesy, satisfying bite just as much as I do.

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