Name: Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat); 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 teaspoons brown sugar; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 hamburger buns; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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This Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes recipe puts a bold, spicy twist on the classic. Using lean ground chicken, it’s packed with flavors that are sure to make your taste buds sing. If you’re craving something savory, spicy, and satisfying, this is the perfect meal for any night of the week!

Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

Ingredients

1 lb ground chicken

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, chopped

1 bell pepper, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

2 teaspoons brown sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

4 hamburger buns

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables soften.

Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.

Add the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar. Stir everything together.

Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens.

While the chicken mixture simmers, toast the hamburger buns in a separate skillet or under the broiler until lightly browned.

Spoon the Cajun chicken mixture onto the buns, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 15 minutes

Total time: 25 minutes

Storage/Reheating

I recommend storing any leftover Cajun chicken mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply heat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, I add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up. If you want to store the toasted buns, it’s best to wrap them tightly and store them separately in an airtight container. The buns can be lightly toasted again before serving.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground chicken without changing the overall flavor. It will give you a similar lean option.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or even add some hot sauce for extra heat if you like it spicy.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, the Cajun chicken mixture can be made ahead of time. Simply store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the Cajun chicken mixture for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

What should I serve with Cajun chicken sloppy joes?

I like serving this dish with a side of crispy fries, a simple salad, or some roasted vegetables. The options are endless!

Conclusion

These Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are the perfect combination of bold, spicy flavors with the comfort of a classic sloppy joe. It’s quick, easy, and satisfying—ideal for busy weeknights or when I’m craving something flavorful. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, I’m confident this recipe will become a new favorite in my dinner routine. Whether I’m serving it for the family or having a laid-back meal with friends, it’s always a hit!

Recipe:

Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A bold, spicy twist on the classic sloppy joe, made with lean ground chicken and Cajun seasonings, perfect for weeknight dinners.

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables soften.
Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
Add the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar. Stir everything together.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens.
While the chicken mixture simmers, toast the hamburger buns in a separate skillet or under the broiler until lightly browned.
Spoon the Cajun chicken mixture onto the buns, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.