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There’s a comforting nostalgia that comes with the sound of sizzling meat and the warm aromas that fill your kitchen. Picture this: a busy weeknight, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours cooking. Enter my Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes—an impressive take on the classic dish that comes together in a flash!

Imagine tender ground chicken enveloped in a zesty marinara sauce, mingling with the rich flavors of basil pesto and melted mozzarella cheese, all nestled between buttery brioche buns. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that transforms a simple dinner into something truly special. The ease of preparation means you’ll have more time to enjoy with family or unwind after a long day.

Trust me, these Sloppy Joes will not just be a hit; they’ll quickly become a staple on your dinner table, banishing the boring takeout nights for good. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s bound to impress!

Why love Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes?

Simplicity meets flavor in this delightful dish, perfect for busy weeknights. Hearty and satisfying, the combination of ground chicken, marinara, and zesty basil pesto creates a taste explosion. Crowd-pleaser appeal means even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds! Quick prep allows you to whip these Joes up in no time, making them ideal for family gatherings. Transform your dinner routine with this unique twist on a classic comfort food!

Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Ingredients

For the Meat Mixture

Lean ground chicken – a healthier alternative that keeps these Sloppy Joes light and flavorful.
Diced yellow onion – adds a sweet and savory undertone to your filling.
Marinara sauce – creates a rich, tangy base that perfectly complements the chicken.
Basil pesto – brings a burst of freshness and herbaceous flavor to the dish.
Salt – enhances the overall taste of your delightful Sloppy Joes.
Pepper – adds just the right kick to balance the flavors.
Shredded Parmesan cheese – gives a cheesy depth when mixed in, reminiscent of classic Chicken Parmesan.

For the Buns

Brioche buns – their buttery texture elevates the entire experience, making each bite irresistible.
Garlic margarine or butter – spreads on the buns for an extra layer of flavor before toasting.

For the Topping

Shredded mozzarella cheese – melts beautifully on top, creating that gooey, comforting finish everyone loves.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This is essential for toasting the brioche buns to perfection, providing that lovely crunch you’ll adore.
Cook the ground chicken. In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, dump the 1 lb of lean ground chicken. Use a spatula to crumble it well as it cooks, aiming for an even texture.
Add diced onions. Sprinkle in 1 cup of diced yellow onion when the chicken is halfway cooked. Stir everything together and watch for those onions to soften, releasing their sweet aroma!
Combine the ingredients. Once the chicken is fully cooked, pour in the 24 oz of marinara sauce, 2 tablespoons of basil pesto, and season with 1 teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Stir until the chicken is beautifully coated in that rich, tangy sauce.
Melt the cheese. Reduce the heat to low, then add ⅓ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese to the mixture. Stir well again and let it simmer gently to meld those wonderful flavors while you work on the buns.
Prepare the buns. Lay 4 brioche buns in a single layer on a baking sheet. This will make your final assembly so easy, trust me!
Spread the garlic margarine. Use about ¼ cup of garlic margarine or butter to generously grease the insides of your buns, adding an extra layer of flavor.
Toast the buns. Place the baking sheet in the oven and toast the buns for about 5 minutes, until they’re golden and inviting.
Assemble your Joes. After toasting, spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto the bottom halves of each bun, letting the goodness spill over a bit!
Top with cheese. Sprinkle on 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sloppy mixture, and then place the top buns on.
Serve and enjoy! Dish them up warm, and gather your family around the table. They won’t last long!

Optional: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes?

Enhance your dinner experience with delightful side dishes and accompaniments that perfectly balance the flavors of your Sloppy Joes.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These thin-cut fries add a crispy texture and a hint of sweetness that complements the savory filling perfectly.
Mixed Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette cleanses the palate and adds a burst of freshness to your meal.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks coated in garlic and herbs bring an irresistible comfort to the table. They’re perfect for mopping up any extra sauce!
Coleslaw: The cool, crunchy cabbage adds a delightful contrast in texture, balancing the rich flavors of the Sloppy Joes.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection brings in earthy notes that beautifully enhance your overall dining experience.
Cherry Limeade: This refreshing beverage packs a punch of sweetness with a citrus twist, making it a vibrant pairing that’ll quench your thirst.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish off the meal with warm cookies that add a sweet ending, creating a satisfying contrast to your savory Sloppy Joes.

Gather your favorites, set the table, and enjoy a heartwarming meal filled with flavors that will leave everyone smiling!

Expert Tips for Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes

Choose Lean Meat: Using lean ground chicken helps maintain a lighter dish without sacrificing flavor. Avoid fatty blends that can make the Sloppy Joes greasy.
Onion Tips: Sauté the diced yellow onion long enough to caramelize slightly. This adds sweetness and depth to the Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes.
Sauce Control: Start with 24 oz of marinara sauce and adjust based on your taste preference. Too much sauce can make the mixture soggy, so add gradually!
Toasty Buns: Don’t skip toasting the brioche buns! Proper toasting keeps them from getting soggy, making each bite perfectly balanced.
Cheese Meltdown: For an irresistible cheesy top, ensure you use freshly shredded mozzarella. Pre-packaged cheese often contains anti-caking agents that hinder smooth melting.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes

Fridge: Store any leftover Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze the sloppy joe mixture (without buns) in resealable bags for up to 2 months. Ensure you remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Heat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, then spoon onto toasted buns for a quick meal.

Bun Storage: Keep leftover brioche buns at room temperature in a bread bag for up to 2 days, or freeze them by wrapping in foil to enjoy later.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken mixture (ground chicken, onions, marinara, basil pesto, salt, pepper, and Parmesan) up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. To maintain quality, be sure to allow it to cool completely before sealing. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture in a sauté pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Meanwhile, toast the brioche buns in the oven as per the original recipe, then assemble with the chicken mixture and top with mozzarella cheese before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, saving you precious time on busy nights!

Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize these Sloppy Joes to your taste!

Spicy Kick: Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes, or even a spoon of sriracha, for an extra layer of heat that can really wake up those flavors!
Veggie Boost: Toss in some finely chopped bell peppers or grated zucchini to the chicken mixture for added nutrition and subtle sweetness. Your family won’t even notice the extra veggies!
Gluten-Free: Swap the brioche buns for gluten-free hamburger buns, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delicious creations without a worry.
Herb Garden: For a fresh burst of flavor, sprinkle in some fresh chopped herbs like parsley or basil before serving. It adds a vibrant touch that brightens the dish!
Cheesy Surprise: Mix in additional cheeses such as provolone or pepper jack for a delightful flavor twist. The more cheese, the merrier!
Pulled Chicken: Substitute ground chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick option. Simply combine it with the sauce and let it warm through.
Meatless Marvel: Swap the chicken for lentils or mushrooms for a delightful vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying. Who said you can’t have comfort food without meat?
Sweet Twist: Add a hint of sweetness by stirring in a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to the sauce mixture for an unexpected but flavorful surprise!

Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe FAQs

What is the best ground chicken to use for Sloppy Joes?
Absolutely! When choosing ground chicken, go for lean options. This keeps your Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes light and flavorful, preventing the dish from becoming greasy. Avoid higher-fat blends or other poultry options, as they may not hold up well in the dish.

How should I store leftovers?
For sure! After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This will keep your Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, just stir thoroughly to ensure even heating, and enjoy again!

Can I freeze the sloppy joe mixture?
Very much so! If you’d like to make a big batch, freeze the Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joe mixture (without the buns) in resealable freezer bags for up to 2 months. Make sure to press out as much air as possible before sealing, which helps prevent freezer burn.

What’s the best way to reheat frozen Sloppy Joes?
Certainly! To reheat, simply thaw the bag overnight in the fridge. Then, heat the mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Serve on toasted brioche buns for a quick and satisfying meal!

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes gluten-free, substitute the brioche buns with gluten-free buns, and make sure your marinara sauce doesn’t contain any gluten ingredients. Everyone can enjoy this hearty dish without worry!

What if my sauce is too watery?
Don’t fret! If your Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes mixture seems too watery, let it simmer a bit longer on low heat to allow excess moisture to evaporate. The flavors will concentrate, and you’ll achieve that perfect sloppy texture that makes them so delightful!