Spicy Southern Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe For Dinner

Spice up your weeknight dinners with these mouthwatering cajun chicken sloppy joes that pack a serious flavor punch.

Zesty seasoning and tender meat create an unforgettable sandwich experience.

Regional Louisiana influences shine through every delectable bite.

Comfortable meals get a bold upgrade with this incredible recipe.

Unexpected combinations merge comfort and excitement on your plate.

We challenge you to resist this irresistible culinary creation.

Fall in love with a dish that brings restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen.

What’s Special About Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

• Packed with bold Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a zesty sauce, this recipe transforms ordinary ground chicken into a mouthwatering dinner that'll wake up your taste buds.
• Easily adaptable with optional toppings like pickles, coleslaw, or cheese, these sloppy joes cater to different preferences and make mealtime fun for everyone at the table.
• Using affordable ground chicken and pantry staples, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor without breaking the bank, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious home cooks.

Everything in Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

• Ground Chicken: Lean protein base that creates the hearty foundation of the Cajun Sloppy Joes.

• Onion, Green Bell Pepper, Red Bell Pepper: Aromatic mix that adds crunch, sweetness, and depth to the dish. Choose fresh, firm vegetables for best texture.
• Garlic: Provides robust, pungent flavor that complements the Cajun spices.

• Cajun Seasoning: Classic Louisiana-style blend that brings bold, spicy character. Look for a balanced mix without excessive salt.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds smoky warmth and rich color to the dish.

• Ketchup, Tomato Paste: Create a tangy, thick base for the sloppy joe sauce. Opt for high-quality brands for better flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Provides umami and depth with its complex, savory profile.
• Hot Sauce: Optional ingredient for extra heat and kick.
• Chicken Broth: Helps to create moisture and enhance overall sauce consistency.
• Brown Sugar: Balances spiciness with a subtle sweetness.

• Burger Buns: Soft, toasted base for holding the saucy chicken mixture.
• Optional Toppings (Pickles, Coleslaw, Cheese): Additional layers of flavor and texture.

• Olive Oil: Used for initial cooking and preventing sticking.
• Salt: Final seasoning adjustment for balanced flavor.

Cook Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Like a Pro

Step 1: Sizzle The Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground chicken and break into crumbly pieces while cooking until fully browned.

Step 2: Awaken The Vegetables

• Onion
• Green bell pepper
• Red bell pepper
• Garlic

Saute until vegetables become tender and fragrant.

Step 3: Infuse With Spices

• Cajun seasoning
• Smoked paprika

Stir and toast spices for one minute to release deep flavors.

Step 4: Create The Saucy Base

• Ketchup
• Tomato paste
• Worcestershire sauce
• Hot sauce
• Chicken broth
• Brown sugar

Stir ingredients together and simmer until sauce reaches rich, thick consistency. Taste and adjust salt as needed.

Step 5: Build Delicious Sandwiches

• Pickles
• Coleslaw
• Shredded cheese

Step 6: Plate And Enjoy

Serve immediately alongside crispy french fries, potato chips, or fresh green salad.

Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes: Handy Hints for Better Flavor

• Boost Flavor Intensity: Toast Cajun spices directly in the skillet for 1 minute to release their deep, rich aromatics and maximize taste profile.
• Customize Heat Levels: Adjust hot sauce quantity to personalize spiciness- add more for extra kick or reduce for milder palates.
• Perfect Sauce Consistency: Simmer sauce uncovered to help it thicken naturally, creating a rich coating that clings perfectly to ground chicken.
• Explore Alternative Proteins: Swap ground chicken with ground turkey or lean beef for diverse protein options while maintaining classic Cajun flavor foundation.
• Enhance Texture Variety: Layer optional crunchy toppings like pickles or crisp coleslaw to add contrasting textures and elevate sandwich experience.

Make Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Last a Bit Longer

• Store leftover Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Transfer cooled mixture to freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• Warm the mixture in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent dryness.
• Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.

Dishes That Go with Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

• Complement the spicy Cajun chicken with a hoppy IPA or amber ale that can stand up to bold flavors and cut through the richness.
• Prepare a tangy, cool coleslaw with buttermilk dressing to balance the heat and provide a refreshing contrast to the spicy sloppy joe.
• Choose a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling with bright acidity that will refresh the palate and harmonize with the Cajun spices.
• Craft a Louisiana-inspired cocktail like a Sazerac or a zesty lemon-lime mojito that echoes the Cajun flavor profile and cleanses the palate between bites.

Unique Versions of Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes to Try

• Gluten-Free Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes: Replace traditional buns with gluten-free hamburger buns or lettuce wraps. Use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and verify all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Vegetarian Spicy Joe Alternative: Swap ground chicken with plant-based crumbles or finely chopped mushrooms. Maintain the Cajun seasoning and sauce components for robust flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Chicken Sloppy Joe Bowl: Skip the buns and serve the Cajun chicken mixture over cauliflower rice or mixed greens. Top with fresh herbs and sliced green onions for added nutrition.
• Dairy-Free Friendly Version: Omit cheese toppings and use dairy-free alternatives. Choose dairy-free coleslaw or fresh vegetable garnishes to complement the spicy Cajun chicken mixture.

Curious About Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes? Start Here

• What is Cajun seasoning?

Cajun seasoning is a spicy blend of herbs and spices typically including paprika, garlic powder, pepper, oregano, and cayenne that originates from Louisiana cuisine and gives dishes a bold, zesty flavor profile.

• Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is an excellent substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. It has a similar texture and will work perfectly with the Cajun seasoning and sauce.

• How spicy are these Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes?

The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning and optional hot sauce. You can control the heat by using a mild Cajun blend or reducing the amount of cayenne in the seasoning. If you prefer less heat, start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

While Cajun Sloppy Joes have some spice, you can easily modify the recipe by using a mild Cajun seasoning and reducing or omitting hot sauce to make it more suitable for children’s palates.

Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe

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4.6 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Spicy Cajun chicken sloppy joes deliver a mouthwatering Louisiana-inspired twist on classic comfort food. Bold flavors merge perfectly, promising a zesty sandwich experience you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Meat:

• 1 pound (454 grams) ground chicken

Vegetables:

• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Seasonings and Sauces:

• 1.5 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.5 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)
• 0.5 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

Bread and Optional Toppings:

• 4 hamburger buns, toasted
• Optional toppings: sliced pickles, coleslaw, shredded cheese

Additional Cooking Ingredient:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

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Instructions

1. Warm a spacious skillet with olive oil over medium-high temperature, introducing ground chicken and fragmenting it methodically until thoroughly bronzed and completely cooked.
2. Incorporate diced onions, green and red bell peppers, and minced garlic into the skillet, allowing vegetables to soften and release their aromatic essence.
3. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika across the mixture, gently toasting the spices to amplify their robust flavor profile.
4. Reduce cooking temperature to medium, introducing ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, optional hot sauce, chicken broth, and brown sugar into the skillet.
5. Stir ingredients thoroughly, permitting the sauce to simmer and gradually thicken while developing complex flavor dimensions.
6. Taste and calibrate seasoning with additional salt if necessary, ensuring a balanced and vibrant taste experience.
7. Select toasted buns and generously ladle the spicy chicken mixture onto each sandwich base.
8. Customize with optional embellishments like tangy pickles, creamy coleslaw, or melted cheese to elevate the dish’s complexity.
9. Present immediately alongside complementary sides such as crispy fries, crunchy chips, or a refreshing garden salad for a complete meal.

Notes

• Adjust spice levels by modifying the amount of Cajun seasoning for those who prefer milder or more intense flavors.
• Swap ground chicken with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for alternative protein options that maintain the dish’s zesty profile.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce added salt to create a heart-healthy version of this classic comfort food.
• Opt for whole wheat buns or lettuce wraps to make the recipe more diet-friendly and lower in carbohydrates.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 380 kcal
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg