If you love all things cheesy and bursting with flavorful sauce, you are going to absolutely adore this Cheesy, Saucy Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe. It takes the classic sloppy joe and transforms it with tender ground chicken, rich marinara, and a heavenly blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Every bite melts in your mouth with gooey, savory goodness balanced by the fresh herbs on top. This dish is a fun, comforting twist perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something quick but truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple, but they come together in such a way that each one shines through beautifully in texture, taste, and color. From the ground chicken’s mild tenderness to the tangy, aromatic marinara, every element plays a vital role.
- 1 lb ground chicken: The lean but juicy base that soaks up all the wonderful flavors.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps soften the onions and gives richness to the cooked chicken.
- ½ cup diced yellow onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Brings warm, savory notes that complement the cheese perfectly.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the dish.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A classic herb mix that adds that unmistakable Italian charm.
- 1½ cups marinara or pasta sauce: The saucy heart of the dish, rich with tomato goodness.
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Imparts nutty, salty notes and helps thicken the sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Creamy and gooey, it’s the ultimate cheesy topping.
- 4 sandwich buns or brioche rolls: Soft, slightly sweet bread to hold all that delicious filling.
- Chopped parsley or fresh basil: Fresh herbs to brighten and add a little pop of color and flavor.
How to Make Cheesy, Saucy Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it cook gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft, translucent, and fragrant. This step lays down a flavorful foundation, bringing sweetness and aroma that complement the chicken perfectly.
Step 2: Cook Chicken
Add in the ground chicken and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink. This is when your kitchen starts smelling truly amazing, with savory scents filling the air.
Step 3: Season and Sauce
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning directly into your skillet. Give everything a good stir so those spices distribute evenly. Then pour in the marinara sauce, reduce heat to low, and let the mixture simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Add Cheeses
Stir in the shredded Parmesan and half of the mozzarella cheese. Keep the heat low and cook for an additional 2 minutes until all the cheese has melted and blended into the saucy chicken. You’ll notice the thick, creamy texture coming together, making this sloppy joe filling utterly irresistible.
Step 5: Toast Buns
While the sauce is simmering, pop your sandwich buns or brioche rolls into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Toast them for 5 to 6 minutes until they’re lightly crisp and golden on the outside but still soft within — the perfect vehicle for that rich filling.
Step 6: Assemble Sandwiches
Spoon the cheesy, saucy chicken mixture generously onto the toasted buns. Add the remaining mozzarella cheese on top and place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes. Watch closely as the cheese bubbles up into melty, golden perfection.
Step 7: Serve
Finish things off by sprinkling chopped parsley or fresh basil over the sandwiches. These bright, fragrant herbs not only make the dish look gorgeous but add a fresh contrast to the rich cheese and sauce. Serve immediately and prepare for deliciously messy, satisfying bites!
How to Serve Cheesy, Saucy Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil are traditional, but feel free to mix in some finely grated Parmesan or even a few red pepper flakes if you want a little kick. These tiny extras elevate the dish visually and add subtle brightness to balance all that cheesy richness.
Side Dishes
Since these sloppy joes are rich and hearty, pairing them with crisp, refreshing sides works beautifully. Think simple salads with a light vinaigrette, oven-roasted vegetables, or even classic coleslaw to cut through the richness. Crispy sweet potato fries or baked zucchini sticks make fun, flavorful companions as well.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to switch things up, try serving the filling over toasted crostini for a fancy appetizer or pile it onto baked potatoes for a hearty, casual meal. You could also stuff the mixture into bell peppers and bake them for a colorful, impressive presentation that’s still quick to prepare.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover cheesy, saucy chicken mixture in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion the mixture into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Frozen, it can last for up to 3 months. Remember to label your containers with the date for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the mixture overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts until heated through. Toast fresh buns and add extra cheese to recreate that fresh, melty experience every time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of ground meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground chicken keeps this recipe light and moist, ground turkey, beef, or even pork work just as well. Just adjust the cooking time if needed and enjoy the flavor twist.
What kind of marinara sauce is best?
Go for a good-quality marinara with simple, natural ingredients. Homemade or store-bought both work. Just make sure it’s not too watery, as you want a thick sauce that clings nicely to the chicken.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can! Substitute the Parmesan and mozzarella with your favorite dairy-free cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. The sauce and seasoning will still deliver plenty of delicious taste.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly by default. If you love a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some on top when serving to give it a gentle kick.
Can I prepare the mixture in advance and assemble later?
Yes! The filling can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat the mixture and assemble the sandwiches to keep your buns nice and crisp.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy, Saucy Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe has quickly become a beloved favorite for good reason. It’s easy, satisfying, and delivers all the comforting flavors of chicken parmesan in a delightfully casual sandwich form. Give it a try, and I’m confident it will become one of those recipes you turn to whenever you want a meal that feels like a warm, cheesy hug.
Print
Cheesy, Saucy Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Deliciously cheesy and saucy Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes made with ground chicken simmered in marinara sauce, seasoned with Italian herbs, and topped with melted Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses served on toasted sandwich buns.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup diced yellow onion
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1½ cups marinara or pasta sauce
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
Sandwiches
- 4 sandwich buns or brioche rolls
- Chopped parsley or fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until soft and fragrant.
- Cook Chicken: Add ground chicken. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Season and Sauce: Stir in garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add marinara sauce and simmer on low for 5–7 minutes.
- Add Cheeses: Stir in Parmesan and half of the mozzarella. Cook 2 more minutes until melted and well combined.
- Toast Buns: While the sauce simmers, toast buns in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–6 minutes until lightly crisp.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Spoon the chicken mixture onto buns. Top with remaining mozzarella and broil for 1–2 minutes until bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Use brioche rolls for an extra rich and soft sandwich experience.
- Broil carefully to prevent the cheese from burning.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Leftover chicken mixture can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
