Spicy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Ultimate
These Spicy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes take the classic comfort food to a whole new level with juicy, spice-kissed chicken and a savory Cajun sauce. This easy and flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Dutch oven
- Spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Toaster or oven for buns
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1.5 pounds ground chicken
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce optional
- 8 hamburger buns
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, coleslaw, pickled onions, sliced avocado
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Add the ground chicken to the skillet and break it up with a spoon.
- Cook until the chicken is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavors.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.
- Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- If you want to add a little kick, stir in the hot sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Spoon the Spicy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joe mixture onto the toasted hamburger buns.
- Top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, coleslaw, pickled onions, or sliced avocado.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Don't overcook the chicken; cook it just until browned. Simmer the sauce for a good amount of time to allow the flavors to meld. Toasting the buns prevents them from getting soggy. Adjust the spice level to your liking. The sloppy joe mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Experiment with different toppings like shredded cheese, coleslaw, or pickled onions. For variations, try using ground turkey, adding beans or vegetables, or making it creamy with sour cream.