If you are craving a bold, flavorful twist on a classic comfort food, this Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture juicy, spiced ground chicken simmered with tangy tomato sauce and Cajun seasoning, all smothered in a luscious, silky cheese sauce that brings the whole thing together in the coziest, most indulgent way. These sandwiches are vibrant, satisfying, and packed with personality, making them perfect for weeknights when you want something quick but special — trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to in your kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, combining simple pantry staples and fresh flavors that create the iconic taste and texture of these sloppy joes. From the seasonings that bring the heat to the smooth cheese sauce that balances everything out, these components work in harmony to deliver incredible results without any fuss.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
- 1 lb ground chicken: Lean and tender, it soaks up the Cajun spices wonderfully.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic warmth that enhances every bite.
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning: The star spice blend that infuses smoky, spicy goodness.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste: Deepens the umami and richness of the sauce.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the filling moist and helps develop flavor complexity.
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (canned): A tangy, sweet base that ties the flavors together.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory, slightly tangy punch.
- 1 tsp brown sugar (optional): Balances heat with a subtle touch of sweetness.
- Salt (to taste): Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Essential for creating a creamy, velvety cheese sauce.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce perfectly.
- 1 cup whole milk: Creates a rich, smooth base for the sauce.
- 8 oz sharp cheddar or American cheese, freshly shredded: Melts into a silky sauce with that classic comfort-food flavor.
- 1/4 tsp paprika: Adds smoky color and a gentle kick to the cheese sauce.
- Salt (pinch): Just enough to season the sauce without overpowering it.
- 4–6 brioche hamburger buns (split, toasted): Soft, buttery buns that cradle the filling delightfully.
- Softened butter (for toasting): Gives the buns a golden, crisp finish and extra flavor.
- Freshly ground black pepper (to finish): Adds a fresh, bold note that brightens each sandwich.
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 skillet over medium-high heat — this is where the magic begins. Brown the ground chicken until it’s nicely crumbled and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. Then toss in the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent and sweet, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning, stirring for a minute until the aroma fills your kitchen. Next, blend in the tomato paste, coating the meat to give it a glossy, rich-red sheen. Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the mixture thickens into the perfect spoonable consistency. Salt to taste, and if you enjoy a hint of sweetness balancing the spice, stir in the brown sugar. If the filling feels too stiff, don’t hesitate to splash in a little broth to loosen it up — aim for rich, saucy perfection.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
While the filling simmers, it’s time to whip up that indulgent cheese sauce everyone will be raving about. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to create a pale roux — this will thicken your sauce wonderfully. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly, cooking for about 4 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickly clings to the back of a spoon. Lower the heat to prevent boiling and fold in the shredded cheese and paprika, stirring until everything melts into a smooth, silky sauce. Add just a pinch of salt to balance the flavors. The key here is to keep the sauce warm and luscious without bringing it to a boil — this keeps it from separating and ensures maximum creaminess.
Step 3: Assemble Your Sandwiches
Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Butter the cut sides of the brioche buns and toast them gently in a hot pan or under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes until they reach a gorgeous golden brown. Generously spoon the Cajun chicken mixture onto each bottom bun—don’t hold back, you want every bite to be packed with flavor. Ladle the warm, creamy cheese sauce over the top so it cascades down the sides in all its glory. Finish by grinding a bit of fresh black pepper over the cheese for that extra pop of aroma and taste. Cap with the top bun and serve immediately. Pro tip: Build these over a parchment-lined tray because any extra drips of cheese sauce are absolute treasure when dunked with fries or chips.
How to Serve Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a garnish is the cherry on top of your masterpiece. Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro not only adds a vibrant green contrast but also a fresh flavor that lightens the richness. For those who love a bit of crunch, thinly sliced pickles or even crispy fried onions create a delightful texture contrast. A sprinkle of extra smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce can amp up the Cajun vibe if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement its richness. Classic crispy fries or sweet potato fries are perfect for dipping into that glorious cheese sauce. A fresh coleslaw with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing crunch. Alternatively, a light, crisp salad with citrus dressing offers a bright counterpoint to the spicy, creamy sandwiches that will keep your meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to mix things up? Serve these sloppy joes open-faced on toasted baguette slices for a fun twist that’s easier to eat with a fork and knife. Or turn them into sliders for a party platter, making it easier to snack and mingle. For a hearty lunch bowl, pile the Cajun chicken and cheese sauce over rice or roasted veggies, turning this recipe into a comforting casserole-inspired meal. No matter how you present it, the flavors will shine through and impress every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Cajun chicken filling and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping them separate ensures the cheese sauce maintains its silky texture and that the filling stays juicy and flavorful.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked Cajun chicken filling in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag for up to 2 months. It freezes beautifully and will thaw quickly in the fridge overnight. For best results, store the cheese sauce fresh in the fridge and only freeze in small portions as cheese sauces can sometimes separate during freezing.
Reheating
Reheat the filling gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much. Warm the cheese sauce slowly in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring often to keep it smooth and creamy. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from curdling. Once warmed, reassemble and enjoy just like fresh!
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a substitute and offers a similar mild flavor that soaks up the Cajun spices beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed to ensure it’s fully cooked.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand?
No worries! You can make a simple blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. This mix will capture that classic Cajun flavor for your sloppy joes.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use your favorite non-dairy milk to prepare the cheese sauce. There are also several plant-based shredded cheese options that melt well and taste great.
How spicy is this recipe?
The heat level is moderate and balanced by the creamy cheese sauce. If you want it spicier, feel free to add extra Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to the filling or on top when serving.
Are brioche buns necessary?
Brioche buns add a buttery, slightly sweet element that complements the spicy filling perfectly. However, any soft, sturdy bun like potato rolls or classic hamburger buns will work if brioche isn’t available.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe will quickly become a favorite. The combination of spicy, juicy chicken with that dreamy cheese sauce is pure comfort food bliss and so simple to make. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch it turn into one of your most requested dishes in no time — your taste buds will thank you!
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Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 sandwiches
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This recipe for Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes pairs spicy, flavorful ground chicken with a creamy cheese sauce, creating a delicious twist on the classic sloppy joe sandwich. The combination of Cajun seasoning, tomato sauce, and a rich cheese topping served on toasted brioche buns offers a perfect balance of heat, tanginess, and creaminess for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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
To Serve
- 4–6 brioche hamburger buns, split and toasted
- Softened butter, for toasting
- Freshly ground black pepper, to finish
Instructions
- Make the Cajun Chicken Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground chicken and cook, crumbling it with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in finely chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and Cajun seasoning and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Mix in tomato paste until the meat is glossy and deep brick-red in color. Pour in chicken broth, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce; stir well. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens to a spoonable consistency. Season with salt to taste and add brown sugar if you prefer a touch of sweetness to balance the heat. If the mixture becomes too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of broth to loosen it.
- Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a pale roux. Slowly whisk in the whole milk and continue cooking for 4–5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Reduce heat to low, then stir in shredded cheese and paprika until the cheese is melted and the sauce is silky smooth. Season with a pinch of salt, but do not let the sauce boil after adding the cheese.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Butter the cut sides of the brioche buns and toast them in a hot pan or under the broiler for 1–2 minutes until golden brown. Spoon a generous portion of the Cajun chicken mixture onto each bottom bun. Ladle the warm, creamy cheese sauce over the chicken so it cascades down the sides. Finish by grinding freshly ground black pepper over the cheese sauce, then cap with the top bun. Serve immediately. Tip: To avoid mess, build the sandwiches over a parchment-lined tray to catch any dripping cheese sauce, which makes an excellent dip for fries.
Notes
- If the filling thickens too much during simmering, loosen it with extra chicken broth.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest cheese sauce — pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may result in a grainy texture.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning amount to your preferred spice level.
- For a lower-fat option, substitute whole milk with 2% milk and use reduced-fat cheese.
- Brioche buns toasted with butter add richness, but you can use any soft hamburger bun as preferred.
