Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
Description:
This recipe is a spicy, hearty twist on the classic Sloppy Joe. Instead of the usual beef, ground chicken is seasoned with Cajun spices, sautéed with peppers and onions, then simmered in a tangy, slightly sweet sauce. Served on toasted buns, these Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are bursting with flavor, perfect for a quick dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) ground chicken
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely diced
1 small green bell pepper, diced
1 small red bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/4 cup chicken broth or water
Salt and black pepper, to taste
4 burger buns, toasted
Optional toppings: sliced pickles, lettuce, pepper jack cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook Aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onions and peppers.
Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
2. Cook Chicken:
Add ground chicken to the skillet.
Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne over the chicken.
Stir well to coat everything evenly.
4. Make the Sauce:
Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and chicken broth.
Mix everything together.
Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
5. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
Spoon the chicken mixture onto toasted buns.
Add any desired toppings (pickles, lettuce, cheese).
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Time Breakdown:
Step Time
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, without toppings):
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~380 kcal
Protein 25g
Carbs 28g
Fat 18g
Fiber 2g
Sugar 7g
Sodium 780mg
Note: Values will vary depending on the brand of ingredients used.
FAQs (Questions & Answers):
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture up to 2 days ahead and reheat it before serving.
Q: Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely. Ground turkey works just as well if you prefer.
Q: How can I make it less spicy?
A: Use a mild Cajun seasoning and omit the cayenne pepper.
Q: What are good side dishes with Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes?
A: Try serving with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a simple green salad.
Q: Can this be made gluten-free?
A: Yes, just use gluten-free buns and double-check your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
Would you also like me to include a homemade
Cajun seasoning recipe or a printable version?
I can even suggest a few fun variations if you want!