Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes bring a bold, zesty twist to the classic sandwich. This quick and flavorful meal features ground chicken sautéed with onion, bell pepper, garlic, and Cajun spices for a spicy and savory filling, perfect for piling high on soft buns.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights.
- Bold Cajun Flavor: Cajun seasoning adds depth, spice, and a Southern flair.
- Healthier Twist: Made with lean ground chicken for a lighter option compared to traditional sloppy joes.
- Customizable: Serve on your favorite bread or make it low-carb with lettuce wraps.
- Family-Friendly: Easily adjustable spice levels make it a hit with all ages.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ onion, finely diced
- 1 bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
Directions
Prep the Ingredients:
- Finely dice the onion and bell pepper.
- Mince the garlic.
- Measure out the Cajun seasoning.
Cook the Chicken Mixture:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the diced onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, and Cajun seasoning.
- Continue to cook for 5–7 more minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the chicken is fully cooked.
Serve:
- Spoon the Cajun chicken mixture onto hamburger buns, sandwich rolls, or your choice of bread.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per serving
Variations
- Cheesy Option: Top with shredded pepper jack or cheddar before serving.
- Add Sauce: Stir in 1–2 tablespoons of tomato paste or hot sauce for extra moisture and flavor.
- Make it Spicier: Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for added heat.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve in lettuce wraps or over a salad.
- Different Protein: Use ground turkey, beef, or plant-based meat alternatives.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the cooked mixture in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave individual portions until hot.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?
Yes, but make sure to check for added salt. Adjust seasoning to taste if needed.
What kind of buns work best?
Classic hamburger buns, brioche, or crusty sandwich rolls all pair well.
Is this recipe very spicy?
It has a mild to moderate heat. Reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a mild blend for less spice.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely—try adding corn, tomatoes, or mushrooms for more texture and flavor.
How can I make this dish creamier?
Add a tablespoon of mayonnaise or a dollop of sour cream to the mixture before serving.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes, the filling can be made in advance and reheated when ready to serve.
What sides go well with Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes?
Great sides include coleslaw, potato wedges, corn on the cob, or a green salad.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally dairy-free unless you add cheese as a topping.
Does ground chicken dry out quickly?
It can—avoid overcooking and consider adding a splash of broth if needed for moisture.
How do I adjust for kids?
Use a mild Cajun seasoning and serve with sweet pickles or cheese to mellow the flavor.
Conclusion
Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are a flavorful, fuss-free meal that brings bold Southern flair to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or something a little different for a weekend lunch, this spicy, satisfying sandwich will hit the spot. Serve it hot and enjoy the vibrant taste in every bite.
Print
Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-servings
Description
These Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are a zesty twist on the classic sandwich—featuring lean ground chicken, bell peppers, onions, and bold Cajun seasoning for a spicy and satisfying meal. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, this easy sloppy joe recipe delivers bold flavor in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
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1 lb ground chicken
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1/2 onion, finely diced
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1 bell pepper, finely diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
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Hamburger buns or preferred bread (for serving)
Instructions
1. Prep the Ingredients:
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Finely dice onion and bell pepper.
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Mince garlic and measure out Cajun seasoning.
2. Cook the Chicken Mixture:
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Add ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon (about 5–6 minutes).
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Add diced onion, bell pepper, garlic, and Cajun seasoning.
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Continue cooking for 5–7 minutes until vegetables are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
3. Serve:
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Spoon the spicy chicken mixture onto toasted hamburger buns or rolls.
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Serve hot for a flavorful, quick meal.
Notes
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Adjust Cajun seasoning to control heat level.
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Add a splash of tomato sauce or ketchup for a saucier version.
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Serve with coleslaw or sweet potato fries for a Southern-style combo.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American