Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce – Bold, Cozy, and Irresistible
Sloppy joes have always been the ultimate comfort food sandwich, but this Cajun chicken version takes things to a whole new level. Packed with bold Cajun spices, tender ground chicken, and finished with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, these Cajun chicken sloppy joes are messy in the best way and bursting with flavor in every bite.
This recipe blends classic Southern-inspired Cajun seasoning with the familiar comfort of sloppy joes, creating a sandwich that feels exciting yet comforting at the same time. The chicken stays juicy and flavorful, the peppers and onions add sweetness and texture, and the creamy cheese sauce ties everything together with indulgent richness. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a treat, even on a regular weeknight.
Perfect for busy evenings, casual gatherings, or game-day spreads, these sloppy joes come together quickly and are easy to customize. You can dial the heat up or down, swap cheeses, or serve them open-faced if you’re feeling extra indulgent. One thing is guaranteed—once you try them, they’ll be added to your regular dinner rotation.
Ingredients:
- Ground chicken
- Olive oil
- Onion, diced
- Bell peppers, diced
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Cajun seasoning
- Paprika
- Tomato paste
- Chicken broth
- Worcestershire sauce
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Butter
- Heavy cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Brioche buns
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and bell peppers, cooking until softened, about 4–5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground chicken to the skillet and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly.
- Add tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Pour in chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.
- Simmer for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes saucy.
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Toast brioche buns lightly if desired.
- Spoon Cajun chicken mixture onto the buns and drizzle generously with creamy cheese sauce.
- Garnish and serve immediately.
Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook onion, peppers, and garlic in olive oil until softened.
- Brown ground chicken and season with Cajun spices.
- Add tomato paste, broth, and Worcestershire; simmer until thick.
- Prepare cheese sauce by melting butter, adding cream, then cheese.
- Assemble sloppy joes on buns and top with cheese sauce.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- Use ground chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Toasting the buns helps prevent sogginess.
- Keep heat low when melting cheese to avoid grainy sauce.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning based on spice preference.
Variations
- Swap chicken for ground turkey.
- Add jalapeños for extra heat.
- Use pepper jack cheese for a spicier sauce.
- Serve over fries or mashed potatoes instead of buns.
- Make it low-carb by serving in lettuce wraps.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cajun chicken sloppy joes with crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, or coleslaw for balance. They’re also great alongside corn on the cob, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. For parties, offer extra cheese sauce on the side for dipping.
Storage Information
Store leftover Cajun chicken filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave. Cheese sauce is best made fresh but can be reheated slowly with a splash of cream.
FAQ
Are these very spicy?
They have a mild to medium heat. Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, the chicken mixture can be made ahead and reheated before serving.
What buns work best?
Soft brioche buns hold up well and complement the bold flavors.
History / Fun Facts
Cajun cuisine is known for bold spices and deep flavors, while sloppy joes are a classic American comfort food. Combining the two creates a fusion dish that feels familiar yet exciting—perfect for modern comfort cooking.
