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- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1-2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (to balance the flavors)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Hamburger buns (or slider buns for smaller portions)
- Shredded lettuce or coleslaw (optional, for added crunch)
- Pickles (optional, for a tangy touch)
How to Make Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken (or turkey) and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Stir occasionally until the chicken is fully browned and no longer pink.
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes, or until they soften and begin to caramelize. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir to combine. Now it’s time to add the flavor-packed sauce ingredients:
- Stir in the tomato sauce and tomato paste, making sure the chicken and veggies are well-coated.
- Add the Cajun seasoning, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Stir everything together until the chicken and vegetables are coated in the seasonings.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and brown sugar, stirring to combine. The sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes and the heat from the spices.
Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or hot sauce if you like it spicier.
Step 4: Assemble the Sloppy Joes
While the chicken mixture is simmering, toast the hamburger buns in a toaster or on a skillet until they are golden brown and slightly crispy. This adds texture and helps prevent the buns from becoming soggy.
Once the chicken mixture is ready, spoon it generously onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. You can top it with shredded lettuce, coleslaw, or pickles for added crunch and flavor. Place the top half of the bun on top, and your Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are ready to serve!
Tips for the Best Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
- Use Ground Chicken Thighs for More Flavor: If you want a richer flavor, try using ground chicken thighs instead of lean breast meat. It will make the filling juicier and more flavorful.
- Adjust the Heat: The Cajun seasoning and hot sauce are the key ingredients for spiciness, so adjust them to suit your taste. For a milder version, cut back on the hot sauce and use less cayenne pepper.
- Make it Ahead: The Cajun chicken filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve and toast the buns just before assembling.
- Add Cheese: For a creamy addition, melt a slice of cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, or provolone) on top of the chicken mixture just before serving. The melted cheese adds a gooey, delicious element.
- Serve with a Side: Pair your Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes with a side of crispy fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Why Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Are a Must-Try
Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes combine everything you love about a traditional sloppy joe—tender chicken, a flavorful sauce, and a soft bun—with a bold twist of Cajun heat and smoky spices. They’re quick, easy, and full of flavor, making them an ideal weeknight meal that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, you can customize the spice level to your liking, making them perfect for both spice lovers and those who prefer a milder option.
The lean ground chicken makes this recipe a lighter alternative to the traditional beef version, while still providing a satisfying, hearty filling. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a flavorful, Southern-inspired meal that’s perfect for casual dinners or fun gatherings.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to shake up your weeknight dinner routine, Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are a delicious way to do it. They bring the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine to a comfort food classic, creating a dish that’s both hearty and spicy. With its combination of savory chicken, tangy sauce, and a touch of heat, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds.
So, grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to a plate of Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes—it’s comfort food with a kick!
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