Name: Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
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; 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; 4–6 brioche hamburger buns (split and toasted); softened butter (for toasting); freshly ground black pepper (to finish)

If you love bold, comforting flavors with a creamy twist, you are going to adore this Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe. This dish takes the classic sloppy joe and reinvents it with the smoky, spicy kick of Cajun seasoning paired perfectly with a luscious cheese sauce that melts right over tender ground chicken. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings when you want something deliciously different yet incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

On a light wooden table with a white marbled background, there is a white rectangular plate holding two pink, softly textured mounds of raw ground meat centered near the front. In front of this plate, three small white dishes and two metallic measuring spoons are arranged: from left to right, a dish with finely chopped white garlic, a dish with bright red-orange powder, and two spoons containing yellow and green dried herbs. To the left, a small clear glass bowl holds golden olive oil. Behind the meat plate, on the right, a white bowl contains roughly chopped white onion pieces. Further back, there is a large empty white ceramic mixing bowl, a wooden spoon resting on the table, and a clear glass mixing bowl sitting on a folded beige cloth napkin. The entire scene is softly lit by natural light coming from a window over a white kitchen sink in the blurred background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, packed with flavor and texture that makes this dish unforgettable. From the savory ground chicken to the rich cheese sauce, each element comes together simply and beautifully.

Olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and vegetables, it brings a subtle fruitiness that complements the spices.
Ground chicken: Lean and tender, it’s the perfect canvas to soak up the Cajun seasoning.
Small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and a bit of crunch once cooked down.
Garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with warmth and depth of flavor.
Cajun seasoning (2 tbsp): The heart and soul of the recipe, delivering that unmistakable Louisiana spice blend.
Tomato paste (1 tbsp): Deepens the umami and gives richness to the sauce.
Low-sodium chicken broth (½ cup): Keeps everything moist and adds savory depth without overpowering.
Tomato sauce (½ cup): Brings tang and body to the filling.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp): Adds a subtle tang and complexity.
Brown sugar (1 tsp, optional): Balances out heat with a gentle sweetness.
Salt: To taste, enhances all the flavors.
Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): For the creamy cheese sauce, creating a smooth base.
All-purpose flour (2 tbsp): Helps thicken the cheese sauce to silky perfection.
Whole milk (1 cup): Adds creaminess and smooth texture to the sauce.
Sharp cheddar or American cheese (8 oz, shredded): Melts into a decadent sauce with just the right tang and richness.
Paprika (¼ tsp): Adds a mild smoky flavor and vibrant color to the cheese sauce.
Brioche hamburger buns (4–6, split and toasted): Soft, buttery, and slightly sweet, they’re the perfect vehicle for this messily delicious filling.
Softened butter: For toasting the buns to golden, crispy perfection.
Freshly ground black pepper: To finish, giving a little bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Make the Cajun Chicken Filling

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it apart until it’s no longer pink—about 5 to 7 minutes. Toss in the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, around 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and Cajun seasoning, letting the spices toast and release their amazing aroma for about a minute. Then, mix in the tomato paste until the meat turns a glossy, deep brick-red shade. Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring everything together. Lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes until the mixture thickens to a rich, spoonable consistency. Taste and season with salt; if you want to tame any extra heat with a bit of sweetness, add the brown sugar. If your mixture gets a bit too thick, a splash of broth will loosen it right up.

Step 2: Prep the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook it for about one minute to form a pale roux—this is the base for your sauce. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously, cooking for 4 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to lightly coat the back of a spoon. Turn the heat down to low, then stir in the shredded cheese and paprika gently until the cheese melts and your sauce is silky smooth. Add a pinch of salt and resist the urge to boil once the cheese is added; this keeps your sauce perfectly creamy.

Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe: Assemble

Butter the split brioche buns and toast them in a hot skillet or under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, just until they’re golden and inviting. Pile a generous spoonful of the spicy Cajun chicken filling onto each bottom bun, then ladle the warm, creamy cheese sauce over the top, letting it cascade gloriously down the sides. Finish with a crack or two of fresh black pepper, cap it with the top bun, and serve right away. Pro tip: build these over a parchment-lined tray to catch drips—the extra sauce makes an incredible dip for fries or even veggies!

How to Serve Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe

There is a white plate with six soft golden-brown bread rolls stacked in a small pile on the right side on a light wooden table with a white marbled texture in the background. Next to the plate, there is a small white round dish with a pat of pale yellow butter, and a smaller white round dish with black pepper. Behind these, there is an empty white bowl. The scene is lit softly from the side, creating a clean and warm feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich filling and cheese sauce. If you like a little extra heat, a few red pepper flakes or sliced pickled jalapeños bring a lovely punch alongside the creamy elements.

Side Dishes

Classic crinkle-cut fries or sweet potato wedges are unbeatable companions to these sloppy joes. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad or some crunchy coleslaw balances the dish beautifully, cutting through the richness with tang and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these sloppy joes open-faced with extra cheese sauce drizzled on top for a rustic look that amps up the comfort factor. You can also use slider-sized brioche buns to make fun bite-sized appetizers perfect for parties. Another idea is layering the filling and sauce over a baked potato for a delicious twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer the Cajun chicken filling and cheese sauce into separate airtight containers. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy quick meals without losing flavor or texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the filling and sauce separately to maintain their best quality. They can be stored for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Warm the chicken filling gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it. Reheat the cheese sauce slowly on the stove with constant stirring to prevent separating. Assemble the sloppy joes fresh with toasted buns for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully in this recipe and will absorb the Cajun spices just as well, though the texture may be slightly leaner.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap the butter and milk in the cheese sauce for plant-based alternatives like vegan butter and unsweetened almond milk, and use a dairy-free cheese to keep the creamy texture.

How spicy is this Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe?

The spice level is moderate from the Cajun seasoning but can be adjusted to your preference by adding more or less seasoning or balancing with the optional brown sugar for sweetness.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Definitely! The filling can be made a day or two ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before assembling the sandwiches with fresh cheese sauce.

What’s the best bun to use?

Brioche buns are recommended because their slight sweetness and buttery texture complement the spicy, creamy filling beautifully. However, any soft hamburger bun or kaiser roll will also work well.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe, it’s going to become one of your go-to favorites. The combination of spicy, savory filling with that luscious cheese sauce is downright addictive and so satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just craving a cozy meal, these sloppy joes hit all the right notes. So grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for one unforgettable bite after another!

Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need