Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

why make this recipe

Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes bring a spicy, Southern twist to a classic comfort-food sandwich. They’re quicker and lighter than traditional beef sloppy joes thanks to ground chicken, but still deliver bold, smoky Cajun flavors that make weeknight dinners feel special.

introduction

This easy recipe combines sautéed ground chicken with onions, bell pepper, garlic, Cajun seasoning, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire for a saucy, flavorful filling. Pile it on toasted hamburger buns and top with pickles, cheese, or a splash of hot sauce for a satisfying, slightly spicy meal the whole family will enjoy.

how to make Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

Start by browning the ground chicken, then build flavor by cooking the aromatics (onion, bell pepper, garlic). Stir in Cajun seasoning for heat and depth, then add tomato sauce and Worcestershire to create a rich, saucy base. Simmer briefly so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens enough to spoon onto buns.

Ingredients :

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Hamburger buns
• Optional: sliced pickles, cheese, or hot sauce for serving

Directions :

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground chicken and cook until browned.
2. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in Cajun seasoning, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
4. Serve the mixture on hamburger buns and top with pickles, cheese, or hot sauce if desired.

how to serve Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

Spoon the mixture onto toasted hamburger buns and serve immediately. Top with sliced pickles for tang, a slice of cheddar or pepper jack for creaminess, or a dash of hot sauce for extra kick. Pair with a crisp slaw, potato chips, or roasted sweet potatoes for a complete meal.

how to store Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

Refrigerate leftover filling in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also freeze the cooled filling for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

tips to make Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

• Use a wooden spoon to break up the ground chicken into small pieces for more even texture.
• Toast the buns in the skillet after removing the filling to soak up extra flavor.
• Adjust the Cajun seasoning to taste — start with less if you prefer milder heat.
• For deeper flavor, sauté the vegetables until they begin to caramelize.
• If the sauce is too thin, simmer a bit longer; if too thick, add a splash of water, chicken broth, or tomato sauce.

variation (if any)

• Swap ground turkey or lean ground beef for chicken if preferred.
• Make it creamy by stirring in a few tablespoons of cream cheese at the end.
• Add corn or black beans for extra texture and heartiness.
• For a low-carb option, serve over roasted vegetables or in lettuce wraps instead of buns.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes—use gluten-free hamburger buns and ensure your Worcestershire sauce and Cajun seasoning are gluten-free.

Q: How can I make it less spicy?
A: Reduce the Cajun seasoning to 1/2 tbsp and omit any added hot sauce; taste and adjust.

Q: Is ground chicken a healthy choice?
A: Ground chicken is generally leaner than beef and can be a good source of protein; choose a lean blend if you want less fat.

Conclusion

For a quick, flavorful weeknight sandwich with a Southern kick, try this take on Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes or see the original inspiration and variations at Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes – Sprinkles and Sprouts.