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Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe - Better Than Traditional!

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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 385
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 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

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. Add diced onion and bell pepper. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds.
  3. Mix in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Stir 1 minute to bloom spices.
  4. Add drained diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Simmer 10 minutes until thickened. Adjust consistency with extra broth if needed.
  5. 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.