Introduction
Welcome to a delightful twist on a classic comfort food! These Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes combine the rich, savory flavors of traditional Chicken Parmesan with the messy, fun nature of sloppy joes. Picture this: tender, seasoned ground chicken enveloped in a luscious marinara sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, all lovingly nestled in a warm, soft bun. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, they are sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic into the skillet, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, around 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine.
- Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer gently for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld nicely and the filling to heat through.
- If desired, toast the hamburger buns lightly in a separate pan or under the broiler for a minute or two until golden.
- Spoon generous amounts of the chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun, ensuring every bite is filled with goodness.
- Sprinkle the cheese blend over the chicken; use both mozzarella and Parmesan for that perfect cheesy topping.
- Place the cheese-covered sandwiches under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a beautifully golden crust.
- Carefully remove from the oven, and if you like, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
- Place the top halves of the buns on the sloppy joes and serve immediately, enjoying the delightful mess!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize your Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes by adding your favorite vegetables into the filling, such as bell peppers or mushrooms. If you want a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce. These sandwiches make for great leftovers; just reheat the filling and assemble when you’re ready to serve! And don’t forget, a side of crispy fries or a simple green salad pairs wonderfully with this dish.
Cooking Techniques
Cooking the ground chicken evenly is essential for that perfect texture, so be sure to break it apart in the skillet. Sautéing the onion and garlic until they’re soft enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Broiling the sandwiches at the end is a great technique to get that gooey, toasted cheese topping without drying out the filling.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a delicious alternative and will yield a similar texture and flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just warm it up and assemble your sloppy joes!
Conclusion
These Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes bring together the comforting essence of a beloved dish with a fun, casual twist. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or a casual get-together, you can be sure everyone will fall in love with the gooey, cheesy deliciousness. So gather your ingredients, dive into the kitchen, and enjoy a meal that’s as heartwarming as it is flavorful!