Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this irresistible Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe that brings a Southern twist to the classic sloppy joe. Imagine tender, spiced ground chicken simmered in a rich, tangy tomato sauce and topped with a luscious, silky cheese sauce that drips decadently over toasted brioche buns. This dish is a perfect balance of bold Cajun flavors, creamy indulgence, and comforting textures that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re craving a hearty weeknight meal or an impressive sandwich for guests, this recipe is here to deliver all that satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet each plays a vital role in creating the depth, creaminess, and vibrant flavors of this Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe. From the bold Cajun seasoning to the creamy cheddar cheese, every element contributes to the perfect harmony of this dish.
- Olive oil: Provides a healthy, flavorful base for browning the chicken and building the sauce’s richness.
- Ground chicken: A lean protein that absorbs spices beautifully, offering a lighter twist on classic sloppy joes.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and texture once softened, creating a solid flavor foundation.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and a subtle bite.
- Cajun seasoning: The star spice blend that brings fiery warmth and a touch of smokiness.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies umami and adds a thick, rich tomato base.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the filling moist while enhancing the savory notes.
- Tomato sauce: Contributes smooth texture and tangy brightness.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds complexity and a slight tangy depth to the sauce.
- Brown sugar: Optional, but recommended to balance the heat with a touch of sweetness.
- Salt: Essential to bring all the flavors to life.
- Unsalted butter: Key for the buttery roux that thickens the dreamy cheese sauce.
- All-purpose flour: Works with butter to create a silky base for the cheese sauce.
- Whole milk: Provides creaminess and helps create a smooth sauce texture.
- Sharp cheddar or American cheese: Freshly shredded for quick melting and rich flavor.
- Paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the cheese sauce.
- Brioche hamburger buns: Soft, slightly sweet buns that toast to golden perfection, ideal for holding all that delicious filling.
- Softened butter: For toasting the buns to a perfect, crisp finish.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Finishing touch for a bit of spice and contrast on top of the cheese sauce.
How to Make Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Make the Cajun Chicken Filling
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken, cooking and breaking it apart with a spoon until it turns completely opaque and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, around 3 to 4 minutes. Next, toss in minced garlic and the Cajun seasoning to bring that spicy, aromatic punch—cook for just one minute until fragrant to avoid burning. Adding tomato paste next will deepen the sauce’s umami flavor and richly color the meat. Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, then stir well to combine. Bring everything to a simmer on low heat for 8 to 10 minutes, uncovered, allowing the sauce to thicken and develop flavor. Season with salt to taste, and if you like just a little sweetness to balance the heat, stir in a teaspoon of brown sugar. If the mixture thickens too much, don’t hesitate to splash in a tablespoon or two of broth to loosen it up.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Sauce
While your filling simmers, gently melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute to form a light roux—this step is important to get rid of the raw flour taste and start thickening the sauce. Slowly add the milk in a steady stream while whisking continuously to keep the mixture smooth. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the sauce gently coats the back of a spoon, signaling it’s perfectly thickened. Reduce the heat to low before adding your shredded sharp cheddar or American cheese and paprika, stirring until silky and completely melted. Season with a pinch of salt; avoid boiling after adding the cheese to keep the sauce luscious and smooth.
Step 3: Assemble Your Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe
Brush the cut sides of your brioche buns with softened butter, then toast them in a hot pan or under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes until beautifully golden. Spoon a generous mound of the Cajun chicken filling onto each bottom bun. Next, ladle the warm cheesy sauce over so it cascades invitingly down the sides—this is where the magic really happens. Finish with a few twists of freshly ground black pepper, then cap with the toasted top bun. For clean assembly, consider building these over a parchment-lined tray so any delicious drips stay contained and can be enjoyed with fries or as a tasty snack).
How to Serve Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to elevate your Sloppy Joes with fresh garnishes like crisp pickles, thinly sliced red onions, or even a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives. These add bursts of freshness and a welcome crunch that contrast wonderfully with the creamy, spicy filling.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like crispy French fries, sweet potato wedges, or even a tangy coleslaw make delightful companions. The creamy cheese sauce pairs especially well with crunchy textures and bright, acidic sides that cut through the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the filling over toasted baguette slices for a Cajun-inspired open-faced sandwich. You could also turn this into a hearty dip by warming the filling and cheese sauce in a casserole dish and serving with sturdy crackers or veggie sticks. Whatever way you choose, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cajun chicken filling and cheese sauce can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them separate helps maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the chicken filling for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Cheese sauce doesn’t freeze as well, so it’s best to make it fresh or keep it refrigerated for short-term use.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken filling gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally to avoid drying out. Warm the cheese sauce slowly on low heat, whisking to restore its creamy consistency. Then assemble fresh Sloppy Joes and toast your buns for best results.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of ground meat instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or even pork can be substituted depending on your preference. Just adjust the cooking time if needed and be sure to keep the seasoning balanced to maintain that signature Cajun flavor.
Is the Cajun seasoning very spicy?
Cajun seasoning typically has a moderate amount of heat, but this depends on the brand or homemade blend you use. You can always adjust the amount to be milder or spicier according to your taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the cheese sauce with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (use less cornstarch) to keep it thick and creamy without gluten.
What type of cheese works best for the sauce?
Sharp cheddar is ideal for its bold flavor and excellent melting qualities. American cheese offers a creamier, milder taste. Feel free to experiment with a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or even a touch of smoked Gouda for a different twist.
How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
Be sure to keep the heat low when adding the cheese and avoid boiling the sauce after cheese is incorporated. Whisk gently and steadily for a smooth, silky texture.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe is pure comfort food bliss wrapped up in a bun, boasting bold seasoning, tender chicken, and a dreamy cheese sauce that brings everything together perfectly. It’s a dish that invites smiles and seconds, so grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and make this flavorful feast part of your regular meal rotation—you won’t regret it!
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 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes combine spicy, flavorful ground chicken simmered with Cajun seasoning and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, served on toasted brioche buns for a comforting and indulgent meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
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
For Serving
- 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 while crumbling it with a spoon until no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the finely chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and Cajun seasoning, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Mix in the tomato paste, stirring until the meat mixture turns glossy and a deep brick-red color. Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, then stir well. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes spoonable. Season with salt to taste. Optionally, add brown sugar for a touch of sweetness and balance. If the filling becomes too thick, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of broth to loosen it.
- 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. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, continuing to whisk for 4 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and lightly coats the back of a spoon. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheese and paprika until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth and silky. Season with a pinch of salt. Avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cheese to maintain its creamy texture.
- Assemble the Sloppy Joes: Butter the cut sides of the brioche buns and toast them in a hot pan or under a broiler for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown. Spoon a generous amount of the Cajun chicken filling onto the bottom half of each bun. Ladle the warm creamy cheese sauce over the chicken so it cascades down the sides. Finish with freshly ground black pepper and cap with the top bun. Serve immediately. For easy cleanup and to catch any extra sauce drips, assemble the sandwiches over a parchment-lined tray.
Notes
- If the Cajun chicken filling thickens too much during simmering, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
- Using sharp cheddar cheese will give a more pronounced flavor, but American cheese will yield a creamier texture—choose based on preference.
- Toast the brioche buns just before assembling for the best texture and flavor.
- The optional brown sugar balances the spicy Cajun seasoning and can be omitted if you prefer a purely spicy kick.
- Try serving these Sloppy Joes with crispy fries or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
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