Description
Bold, spicy, and full of Southern flair, these Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are a zesty twist on a classic sandwich. Ground chicken is simmered in a flavorful Cajun-spiced tomato sauce with bell peppers, onions, and garlic, then piled high on soft buns for a quick and satisfying meal. It’s a family-friendly dinner with just the right amount of kick, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
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Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground chicken
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 small green bell pepper, diced
1 small red bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 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 hamburger buns or brioche buns, toasted
Sliced pickles or coleslaw (optional for topping)
Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Vegetables
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
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Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
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Add ground chicken to the skillet.
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Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon—about 6–8 minutes.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Simmer
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Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
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Add tomato sauce, Worcestershire, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, pepper, and water or broth.
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Mix well and reduce heat to low.
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Simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and saucy.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
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While the mixture simmers, lightly toast your buns on a skillet or under the broiler for 1–2 minutes.
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This helps them hold up to the saucy filling.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
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Spoon the Cajun chicken mixture generously onto the bottom half of each bun.
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Top with sliced pickles, coleslaw, or green onions if desired.
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Cap with the top bun and serve hot.
Notes
Use Lean Chicken – Keeps the filling rich but not greasy.
Toast Your Buns – Prevents sogginess and adds extra texture.
Adjust the Spice – Control the heat by varying cayenne or Cajun seasoning.
Make It Creamy – Add a dollop of mayo or creamy slaw for balance.
Double It – This recipe is easy to scale for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Cajun-American