Here’s a bold and flavorful Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes recipe that brings a spicy Southern twist to the classic comfort food:
Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade – see below)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra smokiness)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for more heat)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 sandwich buns or brioche buns
- Optional toppings: sliced pickles, coleslaw, or pepper jack cheese
Instructions
- Cook the aromatics:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the onions and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute. - Add chicken:
Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. - Season it up:
Stir in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. - Make it saucy:
Add tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Stir well and simmer on low for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. - Toast the buns (optional):
Toast your buns in a dry pan or oven for 2–3 minutes until golden. - Assemble:
Scoop the Cajun chicken mixture onto buns and add your favorite toppings.
Homemade Cajun Seasoning (optional)
Mix together:
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
Would you like a version for meal prep or a vegetarian twist?
