Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious twist on two classic favorites, these Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes are it! Tender ground chicken is simmered in a rich marinara sauce, topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and piled high on toasted buns. It’s a hearty, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Two Classics in One – Sloppy Joes and Chicken Parmesan combined!
Cheesy and Saucy – Every bite is packed with gooey cheese and rich marinara.
Family-Friendly – A meal both kids and adults will devour.
Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.
Perfect for Weeknights – Simple ingredients and minimal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Filling:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

For Assembly:

• 4-6 brioche or hamburger buns, toasted
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• Sliced fresh tomatoes
• Arugula or spinach leaves
• Extra marinara for drizzling

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Baking sheet (if broiling cheese)
• Small saucepan (optional for extra marinara)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully cooked and no longer pink.

Step 2: Add the Sauce and Seasonings
Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Buns
Preheat your broiler to high.
Place the toasted buns on a baking sheet.

Step 4: Assemble the Sloppy Joes
Spoon the chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.
Sprinkle generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh chopped basil if desired.
Serve immediately with extra marinara on the side if you like.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes
Toast the Buns – Helps prevent sogginess and adds flavor.
Use Good Marinara – A high-quality marinara sauce makes a big difference.
Watch the Broiler – The cheese can go from perfect to burnt quickly, so keep an eye on it.
Customize the Heat – Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste.
Serve Immediately – Best enjoyed hot and fresh with melty cheese.

Serving Suggestions
Side Salad – A crisp Caesar or garden salad balances the richness.
Oven Fries – Perfect for a casual, satisfying meal.
Steamed Vegetables – Lighten up the plate with broccoli or green beans.
Pasta Salad – A great make-ahead side for busy nights.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Store the chicken filling separately from the buns in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat the chicken filling in a skillet over medium heat until hot.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
   Yes! Ground turkey works great as a substitute.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
   You can prepare the chicken filling ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.
3. What cheese works best?
   Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, but provolone or fontina would also be delicious.
4. Can I make it spicier?
   Sure! Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
5. Are they freezer-friendly?
   You can freeze the cooked chicken filling in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Final Thoughts
These Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes are the ultimate comfort food mashup — cheesy, saucy, hearty, and totally satisfying. They’re quick enough for a busy night yet delicious enough to impress guests. Once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Give them a try and let us know how you loved them! Don’t forget to leave a comment and share your cheesy creations on Pinterest or Instagram.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American-Italian

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, serves 6):
Calories: 410 | Protein: 26g | Carbohydrates: 29g | Fat: 21g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 680mg

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