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Delicious Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe
Ash Tyrrell

Delicious Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe

When I first tried making Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes, I instantly knew this would be a regular on my dinner table. The spicy, smoky flavors with that saucy, messy goodness tucked inside toasted buns were simply irresistible.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground chicken – I like it because it’s lean and soaks up spices beautifully.
  • 1 medium bell pepper diced – adds sweetness and color.
  • 1 small onion finely chopped – gives a savory base flavor.
  • 3 garlic cloves minced – fresh garlic makes the sauce extra fragrant.
  • ½ cup tomato sauce – creates a tangy saucy texture.
  • 3 tbsp ketchup – balances spice with a touch of sweetness.1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – for that deep savory kick.
  • 1 ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning – the heart of this recipe spicy and bold.½ tsp smoked paprika – adds warmth and a smoky depth.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil – perfect for sautéing veggies without sticking.
  • Salt and pepper – to season just right.
  • 4 hamburger buns toasted – hold up to the saucy filling.
  • Optional toppings: pickles shredded cheese, or coleslaw – for crunch and extra flavor.

Method
 

  1. I start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Then I add the onion and bell pepper, letting them cook until they’re soft and fragrant. This step lays the foundation for the saucy filling.
  2. Next, I stir in the garlic and let it release its aroma for a minute. Then, I add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. I cook until the chicken is no longer pink and slightly browned so it’s juicy but full of flavor.
  3. Once the chicken is ready, I mix in tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. I let everything simmer for 10 minutes so the spices blend into a rich, bold sauce.
  4. While the sauce simmers, I toast the hamburger buns lightly. This makes them sturdier and prevents them from turning soggy once the filling is added.
  5. Finally, I spoon a generous amount of the Cajun chicken mixture onto each toasted bun. Sometimes I top mine with pickles, cheese, or coleslaw for crunch and extra flavor before closing them up and serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh spices – they really make the Cajun flavor pop.
  • Always toast the buns – it keeps them from getting soggy.
  • If you like it less spicy, reduce Cajun seasoning or stir in a little sour cream to mellow the heat.
  • Double the batch – this freezes beautifully, so I like to save some for quick future meals.