Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe

Introduction

When I first made these Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes, my family was unsure what to expect. The combination of creamy Alfredo sauce with the classic concept of a Sloppy Joe sounded intriguing, but also a bit unusual. However, the moment we took our first bites, we were hooked! The creamy, garlicky sauce complements the ground chicken beautifully, and the toasted buns add just the right amount of texture. This recipe quickly became a household favorite, and now, every time I make it, my family insists that I add it to the weekly menu rotation!

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Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need the following 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, add the olive oil and ground chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink, which should take about 10-12 minutes. Use a spoon or spatula to break up the chicken into small pieces as it cooks. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set 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 until smooth, allowing the sauce to come together, and mix in the Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Seasonings

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Stir to coat the chicken thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

While the chicken mixture is heating, toast the Sloppy Joe buns. Slice each bun in half and lightly toast them 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 pair wonderfully with fries, potato wedges, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

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Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories (depending on the Alfredo sauce brand and bun type)

Preparation Time

• Total Prep and Cooking Time: Approximately 25 minutes

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How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes

Here are some excellent ways to serve this dish:

• As a main course: With a side of fries or potato wedges.
• With a fresh salad: Try pairing with a Caesar or garden salad.
• With vegetables: Roasted broccoli, zucchini, or carrots make a perfect match.
• Family-style platter: Serve with all the fixings on a big platter for a cozy meal everyone can customize.
• As sliders: Use smaller buns to make appetizer-sized sliders for a fun twist.

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Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor profile. If possible, avoid garlic powder.
2. Try Different Alfredo Sauces: Experiment with various Alfredo brands or make homemade Alfredo for a richer flavor.
3. Add Extra Veggies: For a nutritional boost, add finely chopped spinach or mushrooms.
4. Season the Buns: Rub a bit of garlic butter on the buns before toasting for extra flavor.
5. Keep It Warm: Cover the skillet with a lid and keep the Sloppy Joe filling warm if serving for a crowd.

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Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Delight: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese to make the sauce extra creamy and cheesy.
• Vegetable Additions: Diced bell peppers or mushrooms can be cooked with the chicken to add more flavor and nutrition.
• Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a slightly different taste while keeping it lean.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free buns to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

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Serving Suggestions

Here are some ideas to complete the meal with sides and pairings:

• Classic Pairings: Fries, potato wedges, or sweet potato fries
• Green Salad: Caesar, garden, or spinach salad for freshness
• Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or zucchini make great sides
• Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad can provide a refreshing contrast
• Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup makes a cozy companion

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Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Prepare the chicken mixture and let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken mixture on the stovetop or microwave until hot, stirring occasionally. Toast fresh buns before serving.

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FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute.

Q2: Is there a dairy-free version of Alfredo sauce?
Yes, there are dairy-free Alfredo sauces available, or you can make a cashew-based Alfredo sauce at home.

Q3: How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free buns to make this recipe suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Q4: Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition.

Q5: Can I make the Alfredo sauce from scratch?
Yes, homemade Alfredo with cream, butter, and Parmesan makes this recipe even richer.

Q6: Are there low-calorie alternatives for the heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or milk with a bit of cornstarch to thicken the sauce for a lower-calorie option.

Q7: How can I make this spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Q8: Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shred the chicken and heat it with the Alfredo sauce for a quick version.

Q9: Will this work as a cold sandwich?
It’s best served warm as the sauce can thicken when cooled, but some enjoy it cold too.

Q10: How can I reheat it without drying out the sauce?
Reheat slowly on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream if necessary to keep it creamy.

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Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes are a fun, delicious twist on a traditional Sloppy Joe. This recipe combines the rich creaminess of Alfredo sauce with the satisfying texture of ground chicken, all served on a toasted bun. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, these Sloppy Joes offer comfort food at its best. Easy to prepare and customize, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for anyone who tries it. So, grab your skillet and give this tasty dish a try – your family will thank you!

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