Go Back
+ servings
Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

Delectable Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes for Cozy Nights

A zesty twist on a classic dish combining tender ground chicken and a creamy cheese sauce, ready in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 sliders
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Sloppy Joe Filling
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Adds fat for cooking; essential for sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
  • 1 pound Ground Chicken Main protein component; lean and flavorful option.
  • 1 small Onion (finely chopped) Adds sweetness and depth of flavor; can use yellow or white onion.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Provides aromatic flavor; ensures freshness if minced shortly before use.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Provides the signature Cajun spice profile; adjust for milder or heightened heat.
  • 1 tablespoon Tomato Paste Deepens umami taste; enhances color. Optional for greater depth.
  • 1/2 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Adds moisture and richness; use vegetable broth as a substitute for a vegetarian option.
  • 1/2 cup Canned Tomato Sauce Forms the base of the sloppy joe mixture for flavor and moisture.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Adds umami and complexity; tamari can substitute for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 teaspoon Brown Sugar (optional) Balances heat with sweetness; omit for a strictly savory dish.
  • Salt Enhances all flavors; adjust to taste.
For the Creamy Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Used to create a roux; essential for structure.
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Thickens the cheese sauce; for gluten-free, use cornstarch or gluten-free flour.
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Creates a creamy base; oat milk can substitute for a dairy-free version.
  • 8 ounces Freshly Shredded Cheese (sharp cheddar or American) Melts smoothly for the sauce; avoid pre-shredded cheese to prevent grittiness.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Paprika Adds a subtle depth to the sauce.
  • Pinch of Salt For final seasoning.
For Assembly
  • 4-6 buns Brioche Hamburger Buns (split and toasted) Provides a buttery, soft base. Substitute with gluten-free buns if necessary.
  • Softened Butter For toasting.
  • Freshly Ground Black Pepper Final seasoning for flavor enhancement.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Saucepan
  • griddle

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 pound of ground chicken, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed, then toss in 1 finely chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, stirring for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Return the cooked ground chicken to the skillet, mixing in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste until glossy and combined. Pour in ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth and ½ cup canned tomato sauce, then add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Let this simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture is thick and spoonable, seasoning with salt and optional 1 teaspoon of brown sugar as desired.
  4. In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually add in 1 cup of whole milk while whisking constantly for 4-5 minutes, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Stir in 8 ounces of freshly shredded cheese and ¼ teaspoon of paprika until melted and creamy, then season lightly with a pinch of salt.
  5. While the cheese sauce is being prepared, split 4-6 brioche hamburger buns and butter the cut sides generously. Place the buns on a hot skillet or griddle, toasting them for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
  6. To assemble, add a generous scoop of the Cajun chicken mixture onto the bottom bun. Ladle the creamy cheese sauce over the chicken. Top each creation with the other half of the toasted bun and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliderCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 28gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Consider customizing with ground turkey or different cheese varieties. Assemble over a parchment-lined tray to catch drips.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!