Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
Turn up the flavor with these spicy, creamy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes! A delicious twist on a classic, this recipe swaps ground beef for lean chicken and loads the filling with sautéed veggies, Cajun spices, melty cheddar, and a touch of cream.
Served on soft brioche buns, these sandwiches are comforting, quick, and irresistibly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Big flavor, low effort: It comes together in under 30 minutes with bold Cajun flair.
Cheesy and creamy: The melted cheddar and splash of cream make it decadently rich.
Great for weeknights: One skillet, simple steps, and easy cleanup.
Kid-friendly with a kick: Spice can be adjusted for all taste buds.
Key Ingredients
Ground chicken: A lean, flavorful protein that soaks up the Cajun seasoning.
Onion, bell pepper & garlic: Classic Cajun aromatics that build a savory base.
Cajun seasoning: Brings the heat and signature Southern flavor.
Chicken broth & heavy cream: Balance the spice and create a rich, saucy texture.
Cheddar cheese: Melts right into the mix for gooey, cheesy bites.
Brioche buns: Soft and slightly sweet, perfect for holding the hearty filling.
Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
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 Cup Chicken broth
1/4 Cup Heavy cream
1 Cup Shredded cheddar cheese
4 Brioche or hamburger buns
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked.
Sauté the Vegetables:
Stir in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic.
Cook for 3–4 minutes until the veggies are tender and fragrant.
Season and Simmer:
Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, a bit of smoked paprika (optional), salt, and pepper.
Stir to coat everything evenly.
Pour in the chicken broth and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Creamy Finish:
Reduce the heat to low.
Stir in the heavy cream until well combined.
Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and the mixture is rich and creamy.
Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
Lightly toast your brioche or hamburger buns if desired.
Spoon a generous portion of the Cajun chicken filling onto the bottom half of each bun, then cap with the top bun.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm with your favorite side dish—fries, slaw, or chips all pair perfectly!
Nutrition Information
(Per sandwich, approximate — makes 4)
Calories: ~430 | Protein: 32g | Carbohydrates: 24g | Fat: 24g | Sodium: ~680mg | Fiber: 2g
Kitchen Tools & Timing
Tools Needed:
Large skillet
Spatula or wooden spoon
Cutting board & knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Grater (for cheese, if not pre-shredded)
Timing:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: ~30 minutes
Recipe Swaps and Variations
Protein swap: Use ground turkey, beef, or plant-based crumbles.
Dairy-free version: Use coconut cream and vegan cheese.
Extra veggies: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to stretch the filling.
Heat level: Add cayenne or hot sauce for spicier joes; reduce Cajun spice for milder ones.
Serving options: Skip the bun and serve over rice, baked potatoes, or in lettuce wraps.
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store the cooled filling in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze the filling in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight and reheat gently.
Reheat: Warm on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth if needed.
Food and Drink Pairings
Sides: Serve with Cajun fries, coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a crisp green salad.
Drinks: Pair with iced tea, lemonade, a light lager, or a citrusy IPA.
Dessert: Cool off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or key lime pie.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use rotisserie or shredded chicken instead of ground?
Yes! Just sauté the veggies first, then stir in the cooked chicken, seasoning, broth, and cream.
Is this super spicy?
It has a kick, but it’s not overwhelming.
Use less Cajun seasoning or opt for a mild blend if needed.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. The filling can be made 1–2 days in advance and reheated just before serving.
What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Colby all melt beautifully.
Do I need to toast the buns?
Not required, but recommended! Toasting helps prevent sogginess and adds a nice texture.
What’s in Cajun seasoning?
Typically a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, and black pepper.
You can make your own or buy pre-mixed.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just use a larger skillet or cook in batches, and double all ingredients accordingly.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or full-fat coconut milk in a pinch.
How do I make it thicker or thinner?
Simmer uncovered longer to thicken or add more broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I serve this as a dip instead of a sandwich?
Yes! It makes a great party dip—just serve warm with chips, crostini, or over nachos.