Description
A bold, Louisiana-inspired twist on the classic sloppy joe, these Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes deliver smoky, spicy, and savory flavor in every bite — all ready in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 chicken breasts (skinless, boneless, chopped or shredded)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red or green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 hamburger buns or soft rolls
- Optional: turkey, plant-based protein, or DIY Cajun seasoning mix
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
- Add diced onion and bell pepper. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds.
- Mix in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Stir 1 minute to bloom spices.
- Add drained diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Simmer 10 minutes until thickened. Adjust consistency with extra broth if needed.
- Toast hamburger buns. Spoon Cajun chicken mixture over bottoms, top with cheese if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of broth. For a healthier twist, serve in lettuce wraps or over cauliflower rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Cajun chicken sloppy joes, spicy sandwich, weeknight dinner, Louisiana cuisine