Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe | Spicy Sandwich Dinner Idea
"Easy Cajun chicken sloppy joes are bold, spicy, and delicious. Made with seasoned chicken, Cajun spices, and melted cheese on toasted buns, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or game-day eats."
Equipment
- Cast iron skillet or large sauté pan
- Wooden spoon (for breaking up chicken)
- Toaster or oven for buns
- Mixing bowls
- Airtight storage containers (for leftovers)
Ingredients
Sloppy Joe Filling
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1–2 tsp hot sauce (optional, to taste)
- Salt & pepper to taste
For Serving
- 4–6 hamburger buns, toasted
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, pickles, lettuce
Instructions
- Brown Chicken & Vegetables: Heat olive oil in skillet. Add ground chicken, onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until chicken is browned and vegetables softened.
- Add Garlic & Seasoning: Stir in garlic and Cajun seasoning. Cook for 1–2 minutes to release aroma.
- Build Sauce: Add tomato paste, tomato sauce, Worcestershire, and hot sauce. Stir well.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes until mixture thickens. Adjust seasoning.
- Toast Buns: Toast hamburger buns in oven or skillet for sturdiness.
- Assemble: Spoon filling onto buns. Add optional toppings like cheese, pickles, or lettuce.
- Serve: Enjoy hot, with napkins handy!
Notes
- Variations: Add cheese sauce for creaminess, jalapeños for extra spice, or BBQ sauce for smoky sweetness.
- Storage: Refrigerate filling up to 3 days; freeze separately for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently on stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
- Pairings: Serve with fries, chips, or coleslaw, and pair with iced tea, lemonade, or beer.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid watery filling by simmering longer, season generously, and toast buns to prevent sogginess.