Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes

Introduction

Sometimes, the best meals are the ones that combine comfort food favorites with a creative twist. That’s exactly what this Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joe recipe does! I made these for my family recently, and they were a massive hit. The creamy Alfredo sauce and tender chicken were a delightful change from the traditional beef Sloppy Joes. The chicken was flavorful and juicy, while the sauce was rich and decadent, making each bite indulgent yet satisfying. The toasted buns held up perfectly to the sauce, and the flavors were spot on. It’s a unique and delicious take on a classic, and I’m sure this will become a go-to meal in our household. It’s easy to make, quick to assemble, and tastes like something you’d order at a gourmet diner!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 jar (15 ounces) Alfredo sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 4 Sloppy Joe buns, split and toasted

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Stir occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink, about 10-12 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter and minced garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and Alfredo sauce. Stir everything together until smooth, and allow the sauce to heat through. Mix in the Italian seasoning, adjusting the amount to your taste.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Seasonings
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Stir to combine and coat the chicken evenly with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and everything to heat through.

Step 4: Toast the Buns
While the chicken mixture is heating, toast the Sloppy Joe buns. Slice the buns in half and toast them lightly in a toaster or on a skillet until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble the Sloppy Joes
Spoon a generous amount of the chicken Alfredo mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place the top half of the bun over the mixture, pressing lightly to help hold everything together.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes immediately while warm. They’re perfect with a side of crispy fries, potato wedges, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 550 (approximate)

• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• With Fries or Wedges: These Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes are fantastic with a side of crispy fries or baked potato wedges for a classic, comforting meal.
• With a Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the Sloppy Joes perfectly.
• On a Platter for a Party: Make these Sloppy Joes for a casual get-together or party. You can serve them as a fun and flavorful option for a crowd.
• With Chips: For a laid-back meal, serve with potato chips or tortilla chips for added crunch.

Additional Tips

1. Use a Lean Ground Chicken: Choose lean ground chicken to keep the dish lighter. If you use chicken with a higher fat content, you may need to drain the excess fat after cooking.
2. Add More Veggies: Feel free to add sautéed onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the chicken mixture for added flavor and texture.
3. Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce.
4. Use Homemade Alfredo Sauce: If you have time, try making homemade Alfredo sauce instead of store-bought for an even richer flavor.
5. Serve with Extra Cheese: For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the chicken mixture before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground chicken for plant-based ground meat or finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian version of this dish.
• Spicy Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or chili powder to the sauce to give these Sloppy Joes a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes: Stir in some shredded mozzarella or cheddar into the chicken mixture before serving for a cheesier version.
• Baked Sloppy Joes: After assembling the sandwiches, place them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese and toast the buns for a baked variation.
• BBQ Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes: Swap the Alfredo sauce with your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Cold Drink: These Sloppy Joes pair wonderfully with a cold beverage, such as iced tea, lemonade, or a refreshing beer.
• Add a Dipping Sauce: For added flavor, serve with a side of ranch or garlic dipping sauce.
• As a Make-Ahead Meal: Assemble the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Then, just heat it up and serve with the toasted buns when you’re ready.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftover chicken Alfredo mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The toasted buns can be stored separately at room temperature or in a sealed bag for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the chicken Alfredo mixture for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then heat it gently on the stove. Serve it with freshly toasted buns.
• Freezing the Buns: You can freeze extra Sloppy Joe buns as well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
   Yes, ground turkey works just as well and is a great alternative for a slightly leaner option.
2. What if I don’t have Sloppy Joe buns?
   You can use regular hamburger buns, sandwich rolls, or even crusty baguettes. Just toast them lightly for added texture.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make the chicken Alfredo filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Then just heat it up before serving.
4. Can I make this without the heavy cream?
   You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the texture will be a little thinner.
5. What can I do with leftover chicken Alfredo filling?
   Leftover filling can be used as a pasta topping or in a casserole. You can even make chicken Alfredo stuffed peppers for another meal.
6. Is it possible to use a homemade Alfredo sauce?
   Yes, making your own Alfredo sauce is a great option if you have the time. Homemade sauce will elevate the flavor and texture of this dish.
7. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
   Yes, you can add sautéed onions, mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the chicken mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
8. How spicy can I make this recipe?
   You can adjust the spiciness by adding more chili flakes, hot sauce, or jalapeños to the mixture, depending on your spice preference.
9. Can I use a different type of bun?
   Yes, any type of soft roll or even a ciabatta bun would work well as a substitute for Sloppy Joe buns.
10. Can I make this dish with shredded chicken?
    Yes, shredded cooked chicken would work well in place of ground chicken. Just make sure to sauté it thoroughly with the sauce to ensure the flavors are well incorporated.

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes are a fun, flavorful twist on a classic. The creamy Alfredo sauce and tender chicken create a delicious, comforting filling for the soft toasted buns. Whether you’re serving these for a casual family dinner, a weekend get-together, or a special occasion, these Sloppy Joes will surely satisfy everyone at the table. The best part is that they come together quickly, and you can easily customize them to fit your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a deliciously indulgent meal that everyone will love!

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