Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

Spicy, bold, and bursting with flavor, these Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are a zesty twist on a beloved classic. Ground chicken is simmered in a rich, spiced tomato sauce with peppers, onions, and traditional Cajun seasoning—then served hot on toasted buns for a fiery, satisfying meal. This recipe comes together quickly and delivers big taste with minimal fuss, perfect for weeknights, casual dinners, or game day gatherings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bold Cajun Flavor – Smoky, spicy, and perfectly seasoned.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
Lighter Twist – Made with lean ground chicken.
Family Favorite – A comforting classic with a flavorful upgrade.
Customizable Heat – Adjust the spice level to your liking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Filling:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground chicken
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
¾ cup tomato sauce
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
½ tsp smoked paprika
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ cup water or chicken broth

For Serving:
4–6 sandwich buns or brioche rolls
Sliced pickles, shredded lettuce, or coleslaw (optional toppings)
Melted butter (for toasting buns)

Tools You’ll Need
Large skillet
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring spoons and cups
Cutting board and knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and bell peppers, and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

1. Add ground chicken to the skillet.
2. Cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon—about 5–6 minutes.
3. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Seasonings

1. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour in water or broth and stir to combine.
4. Lower heat and simmer for 8–10 minutes until thickened.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

1. While the filling simmers, lightly brush the buns with melted butter.
2. Toast them in a skillet or under a broiler until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble the Sloppy Joes

1. Spoon a generous amount of Cajun chicken mixture onto each bottom bun.
2. Top with pickles, slaw, or lettuce if desired.
3. Cap with the top bun and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
Use Lean Chicken – Adds flavor without making the filling greasy.
Toast the Buns – Helps hold up to the saucy filling and adds great texture.
Balance the Heat – Start with less Cajun seasoning and adjust to your spice preference.
Double the Batch – The filling stores and freezes well.
Go Toppings Crazy – Pickles, jalapeños, coleslaw, or shredded cheese all work great.

Serving Suggestions
Sweet Potato Fries – A perfect match for the spicy filling.
Cornbread Muffins – A comforting Southern-style side.
Chopped Salad – Adds freshness and crunch.
Iced Sweet Tea – A classic cooling beverage for Cajun heat.
Roasted Veggies – For a well-rounded, colorful plate.

How to Store & Reheat

Refrigerate:
Store leftover chicken filling in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freeze:
Freeze the cooled filling in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheat:
Stovetop: Reheat over low heat with a splash of water.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
   Yes, turkey is a great substitute with a similar lean texture and taste.
2. Is it spicy?
   It’s mildly spicy—add more cayenne or hot sauce to increase the heat.
3. What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
   Crushed tomatoes or ketchup can be used in a pinch.
4. Can I make it dairy-free?
   It already is—just use dairy-free buns if needed.

Final Thoughts
These Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are the ultimate mash-up of comfort food and bold flavor. With juicy ground chicken, vibrant peppers, and just the right amount of kick, they’re a fun and spicy twist on a nostalgic favorite. Serve them up for a fast dinner, a weekend cookout, or whenever you want something hearty, easy, and packed with personality.

Try them once, and they’ll be a regular on your weekly menu!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
Cuisine: Cajun-American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Sandwich):
Calories: 390 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 30g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 550mg

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