Description
Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes combine two favorite comfort food classics into one irresistible meal. Juicy ground chicken is simmered in a rich tomato sauce, topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan, and served on toasted buns for a fun, family-friendly twist on traditional Sloppy Joes. It’s fast, cheesy, saucy, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken Filling:
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1 lb ground chicken
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)
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1½ cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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¼ cup chicken broth or water
For Serving:
6 hamburger buns or brioche buns, toasted
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics & Cook Chicken
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft.
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Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
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Add ground chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
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Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon.
Step 2: Add Tomato Sauce
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Stir in marinara sauce, tomato paste, and chicken broth.
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Mix well to combine, and bring to a simmer.
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Let it cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and saucy.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for heat.
Step 3: Toast the Buns
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While the sauce simmers, toast the buns in the oven or toaster.
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For extra flavor, brush them lightly with olive oil or butter before toasting.
Step 4: Assemble the Sloppy Joes
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Spoon a generous portion of the chicken mixture onto each bottom bun.
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Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
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Optional: place assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 1–2 minutes to melt the cheese.
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Top with fresh basil or parsley and the top bun.
Step 5: Serve Hot
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Serve immediately with your favorite side—think fries, salad, or roasted veggies.
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Keep napkins handy—these are messy in the best way!
Notes
Use Quality Marinara – The sauce is key to flavor, so pick a good one or make your own.
Toast the Buns – Keeps them from getting soggy and adds texture.
Cheese It Up – Don’t be shy with the mozzarella and Parmesan.
Customize Heat – Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicier version.
Double the Batch – This recipe is easy to scale up for parties or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American–Italian Fusion