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A close-up shot showcases the delicious Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes, a flavorful and messy sandwich perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

Elevate your sloppy joe game with this flavorful Cajun twist! Ground chicken is simmered in a vibrant blend of spices, vegetables, and a tangy-sweet sauce, creating a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner. Served on hamburger buns with your favorite toppings, these Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1.5 pounds ground chicken
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Hot sauce to taste optional
  • 2 tablespoons paprika for Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder for Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons onion powder for Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano for Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme for Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper for Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon white pepper for Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper for Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons salt for Cajun seasoning
  • 6 hamburger buns
  • Shredded cheese optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Small bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Hamburger buns

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Cajun Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, black pepper, white pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Brown the Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  4. Add Aromatics and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  5. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the brown sugar. Stir well to combine.
  6. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld. Adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and hot sauce to taste.
  7. Assemble the Sloppy Joes: Spoon the Cajun chicken mixture onto hamburger buns. Top with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, or shredded cheese.

Notes

Store leftover Cajun seasoning in an airtight container. The sloppy joe mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning or the sloppy joe mixture. For a sweeter dish, add more brown sugar. Consider adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick! Ground turkey can be substituted for the ground chicken.