Creamy Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe

Introduction

Get ready to indulge in a creative twist on the classic sloppy joe, as we introduce the Creamy Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe. This innovative dish combines the comfort of sloppy joes with the rich, creamy flavor of chicken Alfredo, all in one deliciously messy package. Using everyday ingredients and requiring minimal effort, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal with the family. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and is sure to become a new favorite in your household.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors in this recipe is what truly sets it apart, with the creamy Alfredo sauce complementing the savory chicken and tangy tomatoes perfectly.
• The accessibility of the ingredients is another major plus, as most of the components can be found in your local grocery store.
• Despite its impressive flavor profile, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare, requiring only a few simple steps to create a meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 hamburger buns
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Chicken – In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce – In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually add the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted. Season the sauce with basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Step 3: Assemble the Sloppy Joes – Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Stir until the chicken is fully coated in the sauce. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast until lightly browned. Spoon the chicken and sauce mixture onto the buns and top with chopped parsley.
4. Step 4: Serve and Enjoy – Serve the Creamy Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Handy Tips

• To avoid a lumpy sauce, make sure to whisk continuously when adding the chicken broth and heavy cream.
• If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk.
• Consider using leftover cooked chicken to make this recipe even quicker and easier.

Heat Control

When cooking the chicken and making the Alfredo sauce, it’s essential to monitor the heat to prevent burning or scorching. Medium-high heat is ideal for browning the chicken, while medium heat is better suited for simmering the sauce. Be sure to stir the sauce frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this recipe comes from the toasted hamburger buns and the chopped parsley garnish. To achieve a crispy bun, toast it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned. You can also add some crunchy texture to the sloppy joes by sprinkling some chopped nuts or crispy bacon bits on top.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To prevent the sauce from separating, make sure to whisk it constantly when reheating.
• Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh Parmesan cheese and real butter, to elevate the flavor of the dish.
• Consider making a double batch of the Alfredo sauce and freezing it for future meals.

Storage Tips

• Leftover Creamy Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, simply microwave the mixture until warmed through or reheat it in a skillet over low heat.
• Freezing is not recommended, as the sauce may separate and the texture may become unappealing.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While sloppy joes may not be the most conventional gift, you can still package them in a creative way. Consider filling small mason jars with the chicken and sauce mixture and topping them with toasted buns and parsley. You can also wrap individual sloppy joes in foil or parchment paper and serve them in a basket or container.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for an extra kick.
• Mushroom: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the onion and garlic for added depth of flavor.
• Italian-Style: Add some diced bell peppers, chopped olives, or sliced pepperoncini to give the sloppy joes an Italian twist.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with some chicken broth or cream. If it’s too thin, you can simmer it for a few minutes to reduce the liquid.
• Ingredient replacements: You can substitute the chicken with cooked turkey, pork, or beef if desired. You can also use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, in place of the Parmesan.
• Over/undercooking signs: Make sure to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. If the sauce is too hot, it may separate or become too thick.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? – No, it’s not recommended to freeze the Creamy Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes, as the sauce may separate and the texture may become unappealing.
• Is it gluten-free? – No, this recipe contains flour and may not be suitable for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
• Can I double the recipe? – Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients accordingly and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

The Creamy Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes Recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner game. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor variations and ingredients to make the recipe your own. And remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process of cooking and sharing meals with loved ones.