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Irresistibly Zesty Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 243 reviews

A zesty twist on classic sloppy joes featuring tender ground chicken seasoned with bold Cajun spices, simmered in a rich tomato sauce, and topped with a creamy, homemade cheddar cheese sauce. Served on toasted brioche buns, this flavorful sandwich is perfect for a satisfying and indulgent meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Mixture

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp brown sugar (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Creamy Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1/4 tsp paprika

Serving

  • 4–6 brioche hamburger buns, split and toasted
  • Softened butter (for toasting buns)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (to finish)

Instructions

  1. Heat Olive Oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, preparing the pan for cooking the chicken evenly.
  2. Cook Ground Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet and crumble it with a spatula, cooking for 5–7 minutes until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink.
  3. Sauté Onion: Stir in the finely chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until it becomes translucent, adding sweetness and texture.
  4. Add Garlic and Cajun Seasoning: Toss in the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning, cooking for 1 minute until aromatic and combined.
  5. Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste until the mixture turns glossy and a rich brick-red color, enhancing depth of flavor.
  6. Mix in Broth, Sauce & Worcestershire: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
  7. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and add brown sugar if a touch of sweetness is preferred.
  8. Make Cheese Sauce – Melt Butter & Add Flour: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, then whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a light roux.
  9. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in 1 cup of whole milk, cooking for 4–5 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  10. Incorporate Cheese and Paprika: Reduce heat to low and fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and paprika until melted and silky smooth.
  11. Toast Buns: Butter the cut sides of brioche buns and toast them in a hot pan or under a broiler for 1–2 minutes until golden brown and slightly crisp.
  12. Assemble Sandwiches: Spoon the Cajun chicken mixture generously onto the toasted bottom buns.
  13. Add Cheese Sauce: Pour warm cheese sauce over the chicken so it cascades down the sides for extra indulgence.
  14. Finish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper on top, cover with the top bun, and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Adjust Cajun seasoning according to your preferred spice level.
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt content in the dish.
  • For a richer cheese sauce, use sharp or extra-sharp cheddar.
  • Brioche buns add a slight sweetness that complements the spicy chicken mixture.
  • The optional brown sugar balances heat but can be omitted for a spicier flavor.
  • Toasting the buns enhances texture and prevents them from getting soggy.

Keywords: Cajun chicken sloppy joes, chicken sandwiches, creamy cheese sauce, spicy sloppy joes, brioche buns

Find it online: https://kochenmitviktoria.com/irresistibly-zesty-cajun-chicken-sloppy-joes-with-creamy-cheese-sauce-recipe/