Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe
This Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes recipe combines tender, spiced ground chicken with a smoky, creamy cheese sauce for a delicious twist on the classic sloppy joe. The filling is richly flavored with Cajun seasoning, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce, simmered to a thick, hearty consistency. The creamy cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and a touch of paprika adds indulgent texture and depth. Served on toasted brioche buns, this dish offers a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and creamy comfort food flavors ideal for a satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
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
- Salt, to taste
Assembly
- 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 the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the finely chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Mix in the tomato paste, stirring until the meat takes on a glossy, brick-red appearance. Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, then stir to combine. Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes until it 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, 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 all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to form a pale roux. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, continuing to whisk and cook for 4–5 minutes until the sauce lightly coats the back of a spoon. Lower the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheese and paprika until the cheese has just melted to a silky smooth sauce. Season with a pinch of salt. Do not allow the sauce to boil 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 and crisp. Spoon a generous amount of the Cajun chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Ladle the warm creamy cheese sauce over the chicken so it cascades over the sides. Finish by grinding fresh black pepper over the top. Cap with the top bun and serve immediately. For easier cleanup and to catch drips of sauce, assemble over a parchment-lined tray. Extra cheese sauce pairs excellently with fries.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to control spiciness.
- The brown sugar is optional but balances and rounds the heat and acidity.
- If slurry thickens too much, add a splash of broth to loosen the filling.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce than pre-shredded varieties.
- Butter the buns before toasting for extra flavor and a crisp texture.
- Hot sauce or pickles can be served on the side for extra tang.
Keywords: Cajun chicken, Sloppy Joes, creamy cheese sauce, ground chicken recipe, spicy chicken sandwich, comfort food, easy weeknight dinner
