Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are a bold, flavorful twist on the classic sloppy joe, swapping ground beef for seasoned ground chicken and infusing it with the rich, smoky heat of Cajun spices. This dish is perfect for those who love a little spice in their meals while still enjoying the comforting, messy goodness of a sloppy joe. The combination of tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and Cajun seasoning creates a savory, slightly tangy filling that pairs beautifully with toasted buns. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 4 sandwich buns, toasted
Optional Additions:
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (for extra heat)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Sliced pickles or coleslaw for topping
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
- Add ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Sauce
- Stir in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and chicken broth.
- Mix well and bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer and Thicken
- Let the mixture cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- If desired, add hot sauce for extra spice.
Step 5: Toast the Buns
- While the filling simmers, toast the sandwich buns in a separate skillet or toaster until golden brown.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
- Spoon the Cajun chicken mixture onto the bottom halves of the toasted buns.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese, pickles, or coleslaw if desired.
- Place the top halves of the buns on top and serve hot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Spicy & Savory: Cajun seasoning adds a bold kick.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable: Adjust spice levels and toppings to your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Great for leftovers or making ahead.
Would you like variations, such as using turkey instead of chicken or adding a creamy sauce? 😊 You can find more details here and here.