Name: Cajun Chicken and Andouille Subs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cup Mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Dill Pickles; 1 tablespoon Creole Mustard; 1 teaspoon Prepared Horseradish; 1 teaspoon Lemon Juice; 0.5 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce; 0.5 teaspoon Hot Sauce; 2 teaspoons Cajun Seasoning; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper; 0.5 teaspoon Paprika; 12 ounces Andouille Sausage; 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil; 4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs; 1 Green Bell Pepper; 1 Red Bell Pepper; 1 Large Sweet Onion; 4 Sub Rolls; 8 slices Provolone Cheese

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There’s something about a delicious sandwich that just makes my heart skip a beat. When I first discovered the magic of Cajun Chicken and Andouille Subs, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. Picture yourself on a warm evening, the sun setting, and the aroma of spices filling the air. As I took my first bite, the flavors of the tender chicken mingled with the spicy andouille sausage, all nestled in a warm, toasted sub roll, I felt like I was in culinary heaven. It’s one of those meals that brings people together, perfect for a relaxed dinner or a casual get-together with friends. This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about creating memories around the table.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
480 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free

Fat:
27 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Blender, Oven, Chef’s Knife

Why This Cajun Chicken and Andouille Subs Is So Good

Why do I love this recipe? Let me count the ways!

Bold Flavors

The Cajun Chicken and Andouille Subs are packed with bold flavors that awaken your taste buds. The blend of spices in the Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick, making each bite an adventure. I love how the flavors evolve as the sandwich comes together, from the creamy sauce to the sizzling sausage.

Easy to Make

This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, which is another reason I adore it. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a delicious dinner that everyone will love.

Customizable

The Cajun Chicken and Andouille Subs can be tailored to your liking. Whether you want to switch up the veggies or add more heat, the recipe is flexible. You can also play around with different types of cheese, but I find provolone adds just the right amount of creaminess.

A Crowd-Pleaser

This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whenever I make it for guests, they can’t help but rave about it. There’s something about the combination of chicken, andouille sausage, and fresh veggies that appeals to everyone, making it ideal for gatherings.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual Friday night or a game day feast, the Cajun Chicken and Andouille Subs fit right in. It’s versatile enough to serve anytime, and the leftovers (if there are any) make for a delightful lunch the next day.

Comfort Food Vibes

Finally, at its core, this sandwich is pure comfort food. It wraps you in warmth and flavor, making it an ideal meal for when you need a little pick-me-up. The combination of textures—from the crusty sub roll to the juicy filling—makes each bite satisfying.

Main Ingredients for Cajun Chicken and Andouille Subs

The ingredients for these scrumptious subs create a harmony of flavors and textures that’s simply irresistible. The star players include chicken thighs, andouille sausage, and a zingy Cajun sauce that brings everything together. The fresh bell peppers and onion add crunch and sweetness, while the provolone cheese melts beautifully, creating a mouthwatering experience.

½ cup mayonnaise: This creamy base adds richness to the sauce, making it luscious and smooth.
2 tablespoons dill pickles: Chopped finely, they give a tangy contrast that balances the spices.
1 tablespoon creole mustard: Adds depth and a bit of heat to the sauce.
1 teaspoon prepared horseradish: A little kick that complements the flavors perfectly.
1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens up the sauce with a touch of acidity.
½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Provides a unique umami flavor.
½ teaspoon hot sauce: For those who enjoy an extra kick.
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning: The spice blend that makes this dish truly special.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the subs with savory goodness.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a nice warmth.
½ teaspoon paprika: For color and a hint of sweetness.
12 ounces andouille sausage: The star of the show, cut into bias slices for maximum flavor.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Used for cooking, adding juiciness to the filling.
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Tender and flavorful, the backbone of this dish.
1 green bell pepper: Adds a fresh crunch.
1 red bell pepper: Brings sweetness and color.
1 large sweet onion: Adds depth and flavor to the filling.
4 sub rolls: Perfect for holding all the delicious fillings.
8 slices provolone cheese: Melts beautifully to create a comforting layer.

How to Make Cajun Chicken and Andouille Subs

Getting started with the Cajun Chicken and Andouille Subs is an exciting journey into flavor! The process is straightforward, and each step brings you closer to a satisfying meal. You’ll appreciate how quickly everything comes together, from preparing the sauce to cooking the filling. Let’s dive into each step!

First, let’s make the Cajun sauce. In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the sauce: mayonnaise, dill pickles, creole mustard, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and Cajun seasoning. Stir until smooth, and then refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it. This sauce will enhance the flavor of the subs significantly, so don’t skip this step!
Next, let’s prepare the spice blend. In another small bowl, mix together salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika. This blend adds a wonderful flavor to your chicken and sausage.
Now, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Wait for the oil to shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough. This is where the magic begins! Carefully add the andouille sausage slices to the pan and cook until they’re browned, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. They’ll release their wonderful oils that will flavor the pan.
Once browned, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate. You’ll want to keep that flavor in the pan for the next step!
Now it’s time to cook the chicken. Sprinkle both sides of the chicken thighs with the spice blend you prepared earlier. Place the seasoned chicken into the hot pan and cook for about 4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. This gives you beautifully seared chicken!
After cooking, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. This resting period keeps the juices inside the chicken, making it more tender. Once cooled, slice the chicken into strips.
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Then toss in the sliced green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and onion. Sauté them until they are crisp-tender, which should take about 5 minutes. You want them bright and colorful!
While the veggies are cooking, split the sub rolls in half. Place two slices of provolone cheese in each half of the rolls. Toast them in a toaster oven or a 400-degree oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This step adds a delightful layer of creaminess!
Now it’s time to build your subs. Start by adding the sausage, sliced chicken, sautéed peppers, and onions to the cheese-laden rolls. Ensure they’re heaped high for the best flavor experience!
Return the assembled subs to the toaster or oven for a few minutes to warm everything through. This final step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Finally, drizzle the homemade Cajun sauce over the filling before serving. Enjoy your mouthwatering Cajun Chicken and Andouille Subs!

Things Worth Knowing

Resting the meat: Always let the cooked chicken rest before slicing. This helps retain the juices, ensuring tender meat.
Balancing flavors: Taste as you go! Adjust seasoning if needed to find the perfect balance of flavors.
Toasting rolls: Lightly toast the rolls before filling them. This adds a satisfying crunch and helps prevent sogginess.
Serving warm: Serve the subs immediately after assembling to enjoy the melty cheese and warm fillings.

Variations to Try

There are plenty of fun ways to mix things up with the Cajun Chicken and Andouille Subs. Here are some exciting variations to consider:

Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a different hot sauce to the sauce for an extra spicy version.
Veggie-Loaded: Incorporate more vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, for added flavor and nutrients.
Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Grilled Option: Grill the chicken and sausage instead of pan-frying for a smoky flavor.
Healthier Version: Use whole wheat sub rolls and opt for grilled chicken to make it lighter.
Meal Prep: Prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week.
Sliders: Make mini versions of these subs for parties, using smaller rolls for sliders.

Pairing Suggestions for Cajun Chicken and Andouille Subs

When serving the Cajun Chicken and Andouille Subs, consider these delightful pairing suggestions:

Coleslaw: A refreshing side of coleslaw complements the spiciness of the subs beautifully.
Potato Chips: Crunchy potato chips add texture and are a classic pairing with any sandwich.
Pickle Slices: Serve with dill pickle slices on the side for an added crunch and flavor contrast.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can balance the richness and spice of the subs.
Soups: Pair with a light soup, such as a tomato basil or a gazpacho, for a satisfying meal.
Casual Gatherings: These subs are perfect for casual get-togethers, game day, or potlucks!
Light Beverages: Serve with iced tea or lemonade to keep things refreshing.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the subs right before serving to enjoy them warm and fresh. The sauce can also be made ahead of time, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the filling in a pan and toast the rolls for a delightful meal.

These subs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a fresh coleslaw for a crunchy contrast or some crispy potato chips for that perfect crunch. If you want something lighter, a fruit salad can balance the flavors nicely. Don’t forget about pickle slices on the side for that tangy kick!

Absolutely! The Cajun Chicken and Andouille Subs are highly customizable. Feel free to switch up the veggies, try different types of cheese, or even adjust the level of heat by using more or less hot sauce. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, so make it your own!

Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them on the stove or in the microwave. If you want to keep the subs assembled, it’s best to eat them fresh, as the rolls can become soggy over time.

Conclusion

The Cajun Chicken and Andouille Subs are a delightful blend of flavors that bring happiness to any table. From the savory spices to the creamy sauce, you’re in for a treat with every bite. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the joy it brings. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, these subs are sure to impress!