Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are a spicy, flavorful twist on the classic Sloppy Joe. Ground chicken is cooked with bold Cajun spices, onions, bell peppers, and a savory sauce, all served on a soft bun. This is a quick, easy, and fun meal that packs a punch of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ onion finely chopped
- ½ bell pepper finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for extra heat
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- Fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes).
- Sauté vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for another 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add spices: Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 more minute until the spices are fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Add the ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar to the skillet. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer. Cook for another 5 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Spoon the Cajun chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each hamburger bun, then top with the other half.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately. Enjoy with your favorite side dish or chips!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- These sloppy joes can be served on lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.