Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

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Description:
A fiery twist on the classic comfort food! These Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are made with ground chicken, bold Cajun spices, peppers, onions, and a savory tomato-based sauce — all piled high on toasted buns. Smoky, spicy, saucy, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal or game-day favorite.

Origin:
This recipe is a Southern-inspired spin on the all-American Sloppy Joe, originally popularized in the mid-20th century. The Cajun influence comes from Louisiana’s rich culinary tradition, adding heat, bold spices, and depth of flavor.

Ingredients Quantity (Serves 4–6)

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper (red or green), finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1–2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp brown sugar (to balance the heat)
  • 4–6 burger buns, toasted
  • Butter or mayo for spreading on buns (optional)

Ingredients Optional:

  • Sliced pickles or jalapeños (for topping)
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack)
  • Hot sauce (for extra kick)
  • Lettuce or coleslaw (for a fresh crunch)

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté until soft, about 4–5 minutes.
  2. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in ground chicken. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks.
  4. Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and brown sugar.
  5. Stir well and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
  6. Toast buns lightly and spread with butter or mayo, if desired.
  7. Spoon the Cajun chicken mixture generously onto each bun. Add optional toppings like pickles, cheese, or slaw.
  8. Serve hot and messy — it’s a Sloppy Joe after all!

Tips for Success:
Use your favorite Cajun seasoning blend — some are spicier than others, so adjust to taste.
Ground turkey or beef can be swapped in for chicken.
Add a splash of chicken broth if the mixture gets too thick.
Toast the buns for better texture and to prevent sogginess.

Recommendation:
Serve with sweet potato fries, corn on the cob, or a crisp green salad. For a lighter version, serve the filling in lettuce wraps.

Nutrition (Per Sandwich – approx.)
Calories: 370 kcal
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 650mg
Sugar: 6g
Fiber: 2g

Want a spicy mayo drizzle or coleslaw recipe to pair with these? I’ve got you!

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