If you love the flavor of classic Italian comfort food but crave something a little less formal (read: easy enough for a busy weeknight), then you’ll fall head over heels for these Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes. Imagine juicy ground chicken simmered in marinara, topped with gooey melted mozzarella and a sprinkle of nutty Parmesan, all piled onto a toasted bun that soaks up every saucy, cheesy bite. It’s everything you adore in Chicken Parmesan, reinvented in a playfully messy, totally irresistible sandwich!

Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes is in just how simple the ingredients are—each one plays a pivotal role in creating the meal’s rich flavor, gooey texture, and eye-popping color. These basics come together for an Italian-inspired sandwich you’ll be dreaming about before you’ve even finished eating.

Ground chicken: Lean, mild, and just begging to soak up all those savory Italian flavors.
Olive oil: Adds essential richness to sauté your onions and garlic.
Onion: Finely diced for a sweet, aromatic base that infuses every bite.
Garlic: Freshly minced, it brings that irresistible warmth and depth classic to Chicken Parmesan.
Marinara sauce: This shortcuts hours of simmering and ensures a saucy, bold tomato backdrop.
Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that ties all the flavors together, making it unmistakably Italian-American.
Salt: Essential for bringing out the flavor in every ingredient.
Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and a little complexity.
Sandwich buns or rolls: Choose sturdy ones that can handle all that saucy, cheesy deliciousness.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, giving that signature cheesy pull.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty layer that’s absolutely classic.
Fresh basil or parsley (optional): Chopped herbs add color, aroma, and a fresh finishing note.
Butter: For toasting the buns, leaving them golden, rich, and extra special.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating up your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and let it cook until it turns soft and slightly golden, about 3–4 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and let it bloom for just 30 seconds—you want it fragrant, not burnt! This savory aroma is the foundation for that classic Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Next, add your ground chicken to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. You want the chicken well-browned for maximum flavor. If there’s any extra liquid in the pan, go ahead and drain it so your sandwiches don’t get soggy.

Step 3: Simmer with Sauce and Seasonings

Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This is when the chicken soaks up that herby, tangy tomato goodness, getting glossy and thick enough to mound on your buns.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

Meanwhile, lightly butter the inside of your sandwich buns or rolls. Toast them cut-side down in a skillet or under the broiler until they’re golden and crisp—this step keeps them sturdy and adds amazing flavor. Make sure to watch closely so they don’t burn!

Step 5: Assemble and Broil

Pile that gorgeous chicken mixture onto each toasted bun. Top generously with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Set the open sandwiches under the broiler for 1–2 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Don’t walk away—the transformation from good to “oh wow!” happens quickly!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish your Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley. The pop of color and fresh aroma take them from everyday to eye-catching bistro fare. Serve them while hot and gooey for ultimate enjoyment.

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes

Garnishes

A scattering of chopped fresh basil or parsley lifts the whole experience, bringing a burst of green and a fresh aroma that balances the richness of the cheese and sauce. For an extra touch, a final dusting of grated Parmesan—or even a pinch of red pepper flakes—gives these Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes plenty of flair.

Side Dishes

Pair your sandwiches with crisp, lightly dressed green salads or roasted vegetables for a meal that feels both comforting and balanced. Garlic fries, sweet potato wedges, or even a tangy slaw fit beautifully alongside and help soak up all that marinara goodness. Honestly, even classic potato chips work if you want low-fuss fun!

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes open-faced, on toasted ciabatta or garlic bread, for an upscale twist. You can also cut them into slider-sized portions for parties, or pile the saucy filling over baked potatoes or pasta if you’re feeling adventurous. However you serve them, you’ll wow anyone who loves Italian-inspired comfort food.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover filling keeps like a dream! Simply scoop any remaining chicken mixture into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Store the buns separately to prevent any sogginess—just assemble fresh when you’re ready to eat for maximum flavor and texture.

Freezing

Good news: The Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes filling freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. When a craving strikes, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the reheating instructions below.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the filling gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of marinara or water if it’s gotten a little thick. Once hot, assemble on fresh toasted buns and broil with cheese as before. You can also microwave the filling if you’re in a hurry, though stovetop keeps the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey has a similar texture and will soak up the marinara and seasonings just as well. The finished result is still deliciously reminiscent of classic Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes.

How do I make these sandwiches gluten-free?

Just swap traditional buns for your favorite gluten-free rolls or bread. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy these sandwiches without worry.

What’s the best way to keep the buns from getting soggy?

Toasting the cut sides of the buns with a smidge of butter creates a lovely barrier and keeps the bread nicely crisp, even under all that saucy filling. Assemble just before serving, too!

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Go right ahead! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a handful of baby spinach stirred in with the chicken are fantastic options to add some extra nutrition and color to your Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

These sandwiches are a huge hit with kids—they’re cheesy, saucy, and fun to eat with your hands. If you’re worried about strong flavors, you can dial back the garlic or serve the fresh herbs on the side.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes are a joyful mashup that brings all the flavor and coziness of Chicken Parm into the easiest, most satisfying sandwich form. If you love comfort food and crave a crowd-pleaser, this recipe is the one to try—so grab a skillet, some buns, and get ready to fall in love with every messy, cheesy bite!

Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe

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4.7 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes are a delicious twist on the classic sloppy joe sandwich, featuring savory ground chicken in a flavorful marinara sauce topped with gooey melted cheeses, all served on toasted buns. A perfect quick and easy meal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Mixture:

1 pound ground chicken
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Serving:

4 sandwich buns or rolls
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
Butter for toasting buns

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Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic, then add ground chicken and cook until browned. Drain excess liquid if needed. Mix in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Assemble the Sloppy Joes: Butter and toast buns until golden. Spoon chicken mixture onto each bun, top with mozzarella and Parmesan. Broil for 1–2 minutes until cheese melts. Garnish with basil or parsley.