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Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Rose
Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with Creamy Cheese Sauce are a bold and comforting Southern-inspired sandwich made with seasoned ground chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a rich homemade cheddar sauce, all served on toasted buns. Ready in about 35 minutes, this family-friendly meal is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 6 sandwiches
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • small saucepan
  • whisk
  • wooden spoon or spatula
  • knife and cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 rib celery, finely diced
  • 1 red or green bell pepper, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2–3 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1–1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • pinch of salt
  • 4–6 burger buns (brioche or sandwich rolls)
  • sliced green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and mix well so the spices coat the meat evenly.
  • Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the mixture simmer for about 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 2–3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  • In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until smooth and creamy. Add a pinch of salt if needed.
  • Lightly toast the burger buns under the broiler or in a dry skillet. Spoon the Cajun chicken mixture onto the bottom bun. Top with creamy cheese sauce, garnish if desired, and add the top bun. Serve immediately.

Notes

Start with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning and adjust to your preferred spice level. Dice vegetables finely for the best texture. Toast the buns to prevent sogginess. Shred cheese from a block for the smoothest sauce. Store leftover filling in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 32gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 780mgPotassium: 520mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg
Keyword cajun chicken sloppy joes, creamy cheese sauce sandwich, easy weeknight dinner, ground chicken sandwich
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