If you’re craving a meal that bursts with bold flavor and cozy comfort, the Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe is your new go-to. Juicy ground chicken spiced up with bright Cajun seasoning blends beautifully with a luscious, silky cheese sauce that transforms each sandwich into a mouthwatering experience. This dish balances smoky, spicy, and creamy notes perfectly, making it a standout twist on the classic sloppy joe that’s sure to impress friends and family alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients make this recipe shine, with every item playing a crucial role in delivering the rich, hearty flavor and satisfying textures you expect from Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe. From the zest of Cajun seasoning to the velvety cheddar cheese, each component brings something special to the table.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Provides a smooth base for frying the chicken and onions, enhancing flavor.
- 1 lb ground chicken: Lean and tender, it absorbs the Cajun spices beautifully.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweet earthiness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a punch of aroma and savory warmth.
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning: The star spice blend that gives this dish its signature bold, spicy kick.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste: Intensifies the umami and enriches the sauce’s color.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the mixture moist while melding flavors.
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce: Brings a subtle tang and smooth texture.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds a complex, tangy depth.
- 1 tsp brown sugar (optional): Balances heat with a hint of sweetness.
- Salt (to taste): Enhances all the vibrant flavors.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Creates a rich base for the cheese sauce and adds indulgence.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce to silky perfection.
- 1 cup whole milk: Provides creamy body for the sauce.
- 8 oz sharp cheddar or American cheese, freshly shredded: Melts smoothly into a luscious, flavorful sauce.
- 1/4 tsp paprika: Lends a subtle smoky warmth to the cheese sauce.
- Salt (pinch): Balances the cheesy sauce without overpowering it.
- 4–6 brioche hamburger buns, split and toasted: Soft, buttery, and slightly sweet, ideal for holding the saucy filling.
- Softened butter (for toasting): Adds crisp golden surface and extra flavor to the buns.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Finishes the dish with a bright, peppery kick.
How to Make Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Make the Cajun Chicken Filling
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up, until it’s no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. Next, stir in the onion and cook until it’s translucent, roughly 3 to 4 minutes. Toss in the garlic and Cajun seasoning; cook for an additional minute until you can really smell the spices waking up. Then, stir in the tomato paste, which will deepen the color and add savory richness. Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce—these liquids help marry all the flavors. Let everything simmer uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes until the mixture thickens to a perfect spoonable texture. Season with salt, and if you like a little sweet balance to your heat, sprinkle in brown sugar. If the filling feels too thick at any point, just splash in an extra tablespoon or two of broth to loosen it up.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
While the chicken simmers, turn your attention to the creamy cheese sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute to form a pale roux, which will thicken your sauce beautifully without lumps. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly, and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture thickly coats the back of a spoon. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar or American cheese along with the paprika. Keep mixing until the cheese melts into a silky, luscious sauce—be careful not to let it boil after adding cheese or it might separate. Finish with a pinch of salt to bring all those flavors together with creamy finesse.
Step 3: Assemble the Sloppy Joes
Butter the cut sides of your brioche buns and toast them in a hot pan or under the broiler until they are golden and fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes. This adds a wonderful crisp texture and rich buttery flavor that holds up well against the saucy filling. Scoop a generous mound of the Cajun chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Next, lavishly ladle the warm cheese sauce on top, letting it trickle down the sides, making your sandwich irresistibly gooey. Finish by grinding a few twists of fresh black pepper over the top, then cap with the bun tops and serve immediately. For an extra tip, build these over parchment paper or a tray—those drips of cheese sauce are pure gold for dipping fries or chips!
How to Serve Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your experience, consider fresh garnishes like crisp shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, or a sprinkling of chopped fresh parsley. These add crispness and a burst of freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the rich, spicy chicken and creamy cheese sauce.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like crispy French fries or crunchy coleslaw pair perfectly with these sloppy joes, balancing the richness. For a lighter option, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the bold flavors without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try building smaller slider versions of the Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe for a fun party platter. You can also serve the filling over toasted bread or even stuffed inside bell peppers for a low-carb variation that still delivers big flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After assembling, store any leftover Cajun chicken filling and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, the sauce stays smooth and the filling maintains its texture for up to 3 days.
Freezing
The chicken filling freezes well if stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. It’s best to prepare the cheese sauce fresh when ready to serve for optimal creaminess.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken filling gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry. Warm the cheese sauce over low heat, stirring constantly to bring back its silky texture without separating. Assemble fresh with toasted buns for the best sandwich experience.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will absorb the Cajun spices just as beautifully. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly until no longer pink.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand, you can make a quick blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. This will still deliver that signature kick.
Can I make the cheese sauce dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute dairy milk with plant-based milk and use a dairy-free cheese substitute. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still provide a creamy element for the sandwich.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level is moderate and flavorful, with warmth from the Cajun seasoning and a smoky note from the paprika. You can adjust the heat by adding less Cajun seasoning or more brown sugar to balance the spice.
What’s the best type of bun for these sloppy joes?
Brioche buns are ideal because they’re slightly sweet, soft, and hold up well against the saucy filling. You can also use potato buns or any sturdy hamburger bun you like.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe is a fabulous way to bring some bold southern flair to your dinner table. It’s comforting, spicy, and indulgently cheesy all at once—perfect for a casual family meal or an impressive gathering with friends. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. So grab those ingredients, fire up your skillet, and dive into these deliciously messy sandwiches that are as fun to make as they are to eat!
Print
Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (4 sandwiches)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce combine spicy, savory ground chicken seasoned with Cajun spices and a luscious, melty cheese sauce, all served on toasted brioche buns. This flavorful twist on a classic comfort food is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering, delivering a satisfying balance of heat, creaminess, and comforting bread.
Ingredients
Cajun Chicken Filling
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (canned)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp brown sugar (optional)
- Salt, to taste
Creamy Cheese Sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 oz sharp cheddar or American cheese, freshly shredded
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Pinch of salt
Assembly
- 4–6 brioche hamburger buns, split and toasted
- Softened butter (for toasting buns)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to finish)
Instructions
- Make the Cajun Chicken Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the chopped onion and cook for another 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and Cajun seasoning, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Mix in the tomato paste, coating the meat until it turns a glossy brick-red color. Pour in chicken broth, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine. Simmer uncovered on low heat for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens to a spoonable consistency. Season with salt to taste and add brown sugar if desired for a touch of sweetness. If the mixture becomes too thick, loosen it with 1–2 tablespoons of broth.
- Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a pale roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and continue cooking for 4–5 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce lightly coats the back of a spoon. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in shredded cheese and paprika until melted and silky. Season with a pinch of salt. Be careful not to boil the sauce after adding the cheese to prevent separation.
- Assemble: Butter the cut sides of the brioche buns and toast them in a hot pan or under a broiler for 1–2 minutes until golden brown. Spoon a generous amount of the Cajun chicken filling onto the bottom halves of the buns. Ladle warm cheese sauce over the chicken so it cascades down the sides. Grind freshly ground black pepper over the sauce, then cap with the top buns. Serve immediately. For easier cleanup, assemble over a parchment-lined tray as extra sauce drips are perfect for dipping fries.
Notes
- You can adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the amount of Cajun seasoning used.
- If the filling becomes too dry while simmering, add extra chicken broth to maintain a saucy texture.
- For a lighter version, substitute milk and cheese with low-fat alternatives.
- Brioche buns add a rich flavor and soft texture but can be substituted with any preferred hamburger buns.
- Leftover cheese sauce can be refrigerated and gently reheated with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
