Name: Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground chicken; 1 Small onion, finely chopped; 1 Bell pepper, chopped; 2 Cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp Olive oil; 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning; 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 Cup Chicken broth; 1/4 Cup Heavy cream; 1 Cup Shredded cheddar cheese; 4 Brioche or hamburger buns

Jump to Recipe

If you love bold flavors and comfort food with a twist, then you absolutely must try these Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes. This vibrant dish takes the classic sloppy joe concept and bumps it up with a luscious blend of spicy Cajun seasoning, creamy cheddar cheese, and tender ground chicken. Every bite bursts with just the right balance of smoky, creamy, and savory notes, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Trust me, once you’ve tasted these Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes, they’ll quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, straightforward, and work harmoniously to create a rich and satisfying filling. Each one adds its own special touch, whether it’s the hearty creaminess from the cheddar cheese or the colorful crunch from fresh bell peppers.

1 lb Ground chicken: The lean protein base keeps things light yet filling, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
1 Small Onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the savory mix.
1 Bell pepper, chopped: Brings a crisp texture and vibrant color to brighten each bite.
2 Cloves Garlic, minced: The perfect aromatic punch that enhances every layer of flavor.
1 tbsp Olive oil: For sautéing and adding a subtle fruity richness.
1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning: The star spice blend delivering that signature kick and southern charm.
1/2 Cup Chicken broth: Keeps the mixture moist while helping to meld flavors together.
1/4 Cup Heavy cream: Infuses the dish with a luxurious, silky texture that balances the spices.
1 Cup Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly, adding gooey, cheesy goodness.
4 Brioche or hamburger buns: Soft and slightly sweet buns that cradle the filling beautifully.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the ingredients into harmony.

How to Make Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook it until it’s browned and crumbly, which usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes. Breaking it up as it cooks helps it brown evenly and creates that perfect texture for your Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, toss in the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Let them cook together until the veggies soften and become fragrant, approximately 3 to 4 minutes. This layer builds essential sweetness and freshness that balances the dusty Cajun spices beautifully.

Step 3: Season and Simmer

Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, plus salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well so that the spices coat every bit of chicken and vegetable. Pour in the chicken broth and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. You’ll notice it thickening slightly, allowing the flavors to develop and the sauce to become luscious.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese

Now for the ultimate creamy twist—stir in the heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and silky. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese while stirring constantly, letting it melt into the sauce until you have a velvety, cheesy filling that brings the Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes to life.

Step 5: Assemble the Sloppy Joes

Lightly toast your brioche or hamburger buns if you’d like a little extra crunch and warmth. Spoon the steaming chicken mixture generously onto the bottom halves, then crown them with the top buns. This gives you that perfectly balanced bite of soft bread and spicy, creamy filling.

Step 6: Serve While Warm

Dig right in while everything is hot and gooey, so every mouthful is packed with that comforting, spicy goodness only Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes can deliver.

How to Serve Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate your Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with extra flavor and color. Consider topping with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro to add a burst of freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a few pickled jalapeños on the side add creamy cooling or tangy heat that complements the spice perfectly.

Side Dishes

These sandwiches pair beautifully with a crisp side like coleslaw or a simple green salad to cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, try roasted sweet potato fries or classic battered onion rings. Each side adds texture contrast, making your meal feel like a well-rounded, satisfying feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to switch things up? Serve the Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes on a sturdy lettuce leaf or inside toasted pita pockets for a lighter, hand-held option. You can also use slider buns for a fun party platter or turn the mixture into a cheesy dip served with crunchy crackers for sharing. The possibilities are endless and all delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for 3 to 4 days and maintain their juicy, flavorful texture. Give the filling a quick stir before reheating to redistribute the creamy sauce.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead option. Let the filling cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, providing a quick meal solution when you need it most.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to refresh the sauce’s creamy consistency. Toast fresh buns before serving to revive that just-made feel.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and will soak up the Cajun flavors just as nicely, offering a slightly different but equally delicious twist.

How spicy are Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes?

The spice level is moderate and comes from the Cajun seasoning blend. If you prefer more heat, feel free to add extra spices or hot sauce. For milder tastes, reduce the amount of seasoning.

What buns work best for these sloppy joes?

Brioche buns are ideal because their slight sweetness balances the spice, but classic hamburger buns or even sandwich rolls will work fine too. Just make sure the buns are soft yet sturdy enough to hold the filling.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, swap the ground chicken with seasoned lentils or plant-based crumbles. Adjust cooking times as needed, but keep the creamy cheese and spices to maintain flavor.

Is it okay to use pre-shredded cheese?

You can use pre-shredded cheddar for convenience, but fresh-shredded cheese melts better and creates a smoother, creamier texture for the sauce. It’s worth the extra step if you have time!

Final Thoughts

There’s just something incredibly satisfying about Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes — a comforting, cheesy, and spicy meal that’s so quick to whip up on busy nights. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and share it with family or friends. Once you do, I’m pretty sure it will become one of your favorite go-to dishes too!

Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 27 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are a flavorful twist on a classic American favorite, featuring ground chicken simmered in a creamy, cheesy sauce seasoned with bold Cajun spices. This easy-to-make dish combines tender vegetables, smoky paprika, and a luscious blend of cream and cheddar cheese, all served on toasted brioche buns for a satisfying, spicy meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

Instructions

Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks, about 5-6 minutes.
Sauté Veggies: Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 3-4 minutes.
Season & Simmer: Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat everything. Add chicken broth and simmer for 5 minutes, until the mixture slightly thickens.
Add Cream & Cheese: Pour in heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
Assemble: Toast buns lightly if desired. Spoon the Cajun chicken mixture generously onto the bottom half of each bun, then top with the other half.
Serve Warm: Enjoy your Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joe while it’s hot and gooey!

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey for chicken if preferred.
Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your spice tolerance.
For a lower fat option, use reduced-fat cheese and substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
Serve with a side of coleslaw or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Sautéing and Simmering
Cuisine: American, Cajun