Description
- These Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes bring a spicy and savory twist to the classic comfort food. Made with ground chicken, Cajun seasoning, and fresh vegetables, they offer a healthier, flavor-packed alternative perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 stalk celery, diced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 4 brioche or hamburger buns, toasted
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the onion, bell pepper, garlic, and celery. Toast the buns and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground chicken, breaking it up as it cooks. Brown for 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, and celery to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and hot sauce. Stir well.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spoon the mixture onto toasted buns, garnish with green onions, and serve hot.
Notes
- For a milder version, reduce the Cajun seasoning and hot sauce.
- Substitute ground chicken with turkey or plant-based crumbles for dietary preferences.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Serve with coleslaw, pickles, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sloppy joe (1/4 of the recipe)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Cajun chicken sloppy joes, spicy sloppy joes, chicken sloppy joe recipe, Southern sloppy joes, healthy chicken recipes, easy weeknight dinner