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Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe

4.8 from 99 reviews

This Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes recipe offers a bold and spicy twist on a classic comfort food favorite. Featuring lean ground chicken seasoned with authentic Cajun spices, sautéed vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this dish combines vibrant flavors for a satisfying meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick dinner that delivers a delicious Louisiana-style kick, served on toasted buns with melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb (450g) lean ground chicken

Vegetables (Cajun Trinity)

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

Sauce Components

  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes
  • ½ teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
  • ketchup (quantity not specified, estimate ¼ cup)
  • Worcestershire sauce (estimate 1 tablespoon)
  • Brown sugar (estimate 1 tablespoon)

Additional

  • 15 oz canned corn
  • Hamburger buns (quantity according to servings)
  • Mozzarella cheese (quantity to taste, approx. ½ cup shredded)
  • Cheddar cheese (quantity to taste, approx. ½ cup shredded)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetable Base: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, sauté 1 medium finely chopped onion, 1 diced green bell pepper, and 3 minced garlic cloves for 7-8 minutes until they are soft and fragrant, creating the flavorful Cajun trinity base for the dish.
  2. Cook the Ground Chicken: Crumble 1 lb of lean ground chicken into the skillet with the cooked vegetables. Cook until browned, stirring and breaking up the meat thoroughly. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning evenly over the chicken to infuse authentic Louisiana-style flavor.
  3. Add Corn: Stir in one 15 oz can of drained canned corn after the chicken is mostly browned, mixing it well into the meat and vegetable base.
  4. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, combine 1 cup crushed tomatoes, approximately ¼ cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon hot sauce (optional). Pour this mixture into the skillet and stir well to combine. Simmer the sauce for several minutes until thickened and flavors meld.
  5. Toast the Buns: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Place hamburger buns on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 4-5 minutes until warm and slightly crisp.
  6. Assemble and Serve: Spoon the hot Cajun chicken mixture onto the toasted buns. Top with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Serve immediately while the cheese melts and the flavors shine.

Notes

  • For more heat, increase the amount of hot sauce or add cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning.
  • Use fresh garlic and finely chop your vegetables for the best flavor release.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or lean beef if preferred, but the cooking times may vary slightly.
  • Adjust the cayenne in the Cajun seasoning to suit your spice tolerance.
  • Serve with a side of coleslaw or a green salad for a balanced meal.

Keywords: Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes, spicy sloppy joes, ground chicken recipe, Cajun recipe, quick dinner, Louisiana cuisine, easy weeknight meal