Dinner

Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes Recipe

ByAndria Russo November 21, 2025November 21, 2025

Introduction

Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes are a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, combining savory ground chicken and rich marinara with melty cheese on toasted brioche buns. This easy recipe brings comfort food flavors together for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

A close-up image of a sandwich with three layers on a white sesame seed bun, placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a light brown toasted bun, topped with a thick layer of chunky red tomato sauce with pieces of cooked meat. On top of the sauce is a generous amount of shredded white melted cheese, and the sandwich is covered by the top half of the sesame seed bun, golden brown in color. 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 your oven to 400°F to prepare for toasting the buns.
Step 2: Place the ground chicken into a large sauté pan over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Crumble the ground chicken thoroughly as it cooks to ensure even browning.
Step 4: Add the diced yellow onions to the pan and stir them together with the chicken while cooking.
Step 5: Once the chicken is completely cooked through, stir in the marinara sauce, basil pesto, salt, and pepper.
Step 6: Mix everything well until the chicken is fully coated with the sauce.
Step 7: Reduce heat to low and add the shredded Parmesan cheese; stir to combine and let the mixture simmer gently.
Step 8: Arrange the brioche buns on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Step 9: Spread garlic margarine evenly over the buns.
Step 10: Toast the buns in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 11: Spoon the chicken Parmesan sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom halves of the toasted buns.
Step 12: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the meat mixture, then cover with the top halves of the buns.
Step 13: Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a mild kick.
Substitute ground turkey for chicken if preferred.
Try adding fresh basil or oregano for a more herbal note.
Use gluten-free buns to make the sandwich suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken mixture gently on the stove or microwave, and toast the buns separately before assembling for best texture.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a sandwich with a golden brown sesame seed bun on top. The bottom bun holds a thick layer of chunky red tomato sauce mixed with small pieces of cooked meat, which looks juicy and rich. On top of the sauce, there is a layer of melted white shredded cheese, slightly soft and stretching over the meat. The sandwich is placed on a white plate, set against a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the chicken mixture in advance?

Yes, the chicken mixture can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Reheat it on low heat before assembling the sandwiches.

Can I freeze the chicken Parmesan sloppy joe mixture?

Freezing is possible but may affect the texture of the sauce and cheese. If freezing, cool the mixture completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.