Dinner

Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe

ByGabriel Langdon November 22, 2025November 22, 2025

Introduction

Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes combine the comforting flavors of classic chicken parmesan with the casual fun of a sloppy joe sandwich. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something hearty and cheesy without the fuss.

A close-up view of a sandwich with three visible layers: a top golden-brown sesame seed bun, a middle layer of melted white cheese stretching over chunky red tomato sauce mixed with small pieces of browned meat, and a bottom part of the bun with a soft light brown texture. The sandwich is set against a white marbled surface, highlighting the rich colors and textures of the sandwich. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground chicken
1 cup diced yellow onion
24 oz marinara sauce
2 tablespoons basil pesto
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
4 brioche buns
1/4 cup garlic margarine or butter
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F to toast the buns later.
Step 2: Place the ground chicken in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Crumble the chicken as it cooks to break it up evenly.
Step 4: Add the diced yellow onion to the pan with the chicken.
Step 5: Stir the chicken and onions to combine and cook until the chicken is fully cooked and the onions are softened.
Step 6: Pour in the marinara sauce, add the basil pesto, salt, and pepper, stirring thoroughly to coat the chicken.
Step 7: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until fully melted and combined.
Step 8: While the sauce simmers on low, arrange brioche buns on a baking sheet and spread garlic margarine on the cut sides.
Step 9: Toast the buns in the oven for about 5 minutes until golden and fragrant.
Step 10: Spoon the chicken parmesan sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom halves of the toasted buns.
Step 11: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the meat mixture, then cover with the top halves of the buns.
Step 12: Serve immediately and enjoy the cheesy, savory flavors.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh basil instead of pesto for a brighter, herbaceous flavor.
For extra heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers.
Substitute brioche buns with ciabatta or sandwich rolls for a different texture.
Try using ground turkey or beef if you prefer a different protein.

Storage

Store leftover chicken parmesan sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Toast fresh buns before serving to keep them crisp.

How to Serve

A close-up of a sandwich with three visible layers: the top layer is a shiny, golden-brown sesame seed bun; the middle layer is a mix of chunky red tomato sauce with bits of ground meat and melted white shredded cheese; the bottom layer is the golden brown bottom half of the bun. The sandwich rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the meat mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat it on the stove over low heat before assembling the sandwiches.

Is it possible to freeze the sloppy joe filling?

Absolutely. Let the mixture cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.