Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce – Bold, Cheesy, and Comforting

If you’re craving a twist on a classic comfort food, Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce deliver a bold and flavorful upgrade. This dish combines spiced ground chicken with a savory tomato-based sauce, layered with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, and served on toasted brioche buns for the perfect bite. The Cajun seasoning adds a zesty kick, while the cheese sauce balances the heat with creamy, melty goodness. This recipe is ideal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or anytime you want a fun, hearty meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

The combination of flavors in this dish is irresistible. Ground chicken provides lean protein while absorbing the bold Cajun flavors, including paprika, garlic, and onion. Tomato paste and sauce deepen the umami and create a saucy, rich base for the sloppy joes. The creamy cheese sauce adds a velvety texture and mild richness that complements the spiced chicken. Toasted brioche buns hold the filling perfectly, giving each bite a soft, buttery, and slightly sweet contrast. A pinch of freshly ground black pepper finishes the dish and elevates the flavor.

This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning, swap cheddar for American cheese for a smoother sauce, or serve it open-faced for a fun variation. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough for entertaining.

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 canned tomato sauce
• 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 as needed
• Freshly ground black pepper, to finish

Preparation Method

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula.
3. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the chicken and stir to coat evenly. Add tomato paste, tomato sauce, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar if using. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld. Season with salt to taste.
4. While the chicken mixture simmers, prepare the creamy cheese sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly add the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese, paprika, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
5. Toast the brioche buns with softened butter until golden brown.
6. To assemble, spoon a generous amount of Cajun chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Drizzle with creamy cheese sauce and top with the other half of the bun. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper.
7. Serve immediately while warm, with your choice of side dishes such as fries, salad, or roasted vegetables.

Tips and Variations

• For extra heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
• Use Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese in the sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Open-faced Sloppy Joes are a fun variation that makes the dish easier to eat and visually appealing.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the chicken mixture for added texture and nutrition.

Conclusion

Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce are a deliciously bold twist on a classic comfort food. The combination of spicy, tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and velvety cheese sauce served on toasted brioche buns creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Easy to prepare and versatile enough for customization, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or a fun family meal that everyone will love.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture and cheese sauce separately, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, and assemble just before serving.
2. Can I use a different type of chicken?
   Ground turkey or lean ground beef can be used as alternatives. Adjust cooking time as needed.
3. Can I make it spicier?
   Yes, add extra Cajun seasoning, crushed red pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
4. What buns work best?
   Brioche buns are ideal for their soft, buttery texture, but any soft hamburger bun will work.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
   It’s not recommended to freeze assembled sandwiches, but the chicken mixture and cheese sauce can be frozen separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
6. What sides pair well with this dish?
   French fries, roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or a fresh salad complement the flavors perfectly.