Description

These Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are a deliciously spicy and savory take on the traditional Sloppy Joe. Tender, seasoned ground chicken is simmered in a rich, slightly sweet sauce, and served on soft buns for a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for weeknights or any casual gathering.

Ingredients

1 lb ground chicken
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper, finely chopped (red or green)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)

For Serving:

4 hamburger buns (preferably soft or toasted)
Optional toppings: pickles, shredded lettuce, cheese (cheddar or pepper jack), hot sauce

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Instructions

Cook the chicken filling:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, remove excess fat if needed.
Sauté vegetables:
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
Add seasonings and sauce ingredients:
Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Mix everything together until well combined.
Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the chicken is well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or hot sauce for extra heat if desired.
Toast the buns:
While the chicken mixture simmers, toast your buns if desired. You can lightly butter them and toast them on a skillet or in the oven until golden.
Assemble the sandwiches:
Spoon the Cajun chicken mixture generously onto the bottom half of each bun. Add your choice of toppings, such as pickles, lettuce, or cheese.
Serve:
Place the top half of the bun on the filling, serve, and enjoy!

Notes

Feel free to make this dish with ground turkey or ground beef if you prefer.
For an extra spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.

Serve with a side of crispy fries, chips, or a light salad for a complete meal.