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Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Favorite


  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Savor the bold flavors of Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes, featuring ground chicken cooked with a zesty blend of spices, tomatoes, and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or casual get-together, these hearty sandwiches are sure to please!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 1/4 cup tomato ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  3. Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir occasionally, cooking until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
  5. Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet, draining them slightly if using canned. Stir everything together.
  6. Add the tomato ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Stir until well combined.
  7. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust the consistency with a splash of water or chicken broth if needed.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra heat if desired.
  9. While the chicken mixture simmers, prepare the hamburger buns. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if toasting.
  10. Slice the hamburger buns in half and place them on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until lightly golden and crispy, or set aside if not toasting.
  11. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.
  12. Place the top half of the bun over the filling. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
  13. Serve immediately while warm, paired with coleslaw, potato chips, or a simple green salad.

Notes

  • Adjust the level of spiciness by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper.
  • For a vegetarian option, substitute ground chicken with a plant-based meat alternative.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes