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Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe

Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 23 reviews

This Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes recipe is a flavorful twist on the classic sloppy joe sandwich. Featuring lean ground chicken seasoned with authentic Cajun spices, sautéed vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this dish is both spicy and comforting. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, these sloppy joes offer bold Louisiana-inspired flavors paired with soft toasted burger buns. Ready in just 30 minutes, they are a delicious family-friendly option that you can customize with various cheeses, proteins, and spice levels.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb (450g) lean ground chicken

Vegetables (Cajun Trinity)

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Spices & Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (authentic blend with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder)
  • Salt to taste (optional)

Sauce Components

  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes
  • ½ teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar

Serving

  • Soft burger buns (whole wheat, brioche, or classic sesame seed buns)
  • Shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetable Base: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil and sauté the finely chopped onion, diced green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook slowly for 7-8 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  2. Cook the Ground Chicken: Add the lean ground chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Break it up with a wooden spatula and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning evenly over the chicken and stir well to combine and develop authentic Louisiana flavors.
  3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, stir in the crushed tomatoes, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and optional hot sauce. Mix thoroughly, bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors deepen.
  4. Toast the Buns: While the sauce simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the burger buns cut-side up on a baking sheet and toast for 4-5 minutes until slightly crispy and golden. This helps prevent sogginess and adds a pleasant texture contrast.
  5. Assemble the Sloppy Joes: Spoon the spicy cajun chicken mixture onto the toasted buns. Optionally, top each sandwich with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, allowing the warmth of the filling to melt the cheese, creating a rich finish.
  6. Serve Immediately: Serve your Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes hot with your choice of sides like Cajun fries, creamy coleslaw, or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of hot sauce and Cajun seasoning according to your preferred spice level.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute ground chicken with finely chopped mushrooms, lentil crumbles, tofu, or plant-based meat substitutes seasoned similarly.
  • Add extra vegetables such as diced carrots, sweet corn, baby spinach, or roasted bell peppers to boost nutrition and flavor.
  • Use soft yet sturdy burger buns to prevent sogginess; toasting is recommended.
  • Leftover filling can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months in airtight containers.
  • Reheat thoroughly before serving leftovers.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes, spicy sloppy joe recipe, lean ground chicken, Cajun seasoning, quick dinner, easy weeknight meal, Louisiana flavors, spicy sandwich

Find it online: https://ellaeatsdaily.com/easy-cajun-chicken-sloppy-joes-recipe/