Can I make Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes ahead of time?

Yes! The chicken filling can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Is this recipe too spicy for kids or spice-sensitive eaters?

It depends on the Cajun seasoning used. You can reduce the spice by using a milder seasoning blend or adding more tomato sauce or a spoonful of yogurt to tone it down.

Can I use another type of meat instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely. Ground turkey, beef, or even pork work well. Each provides a slightly different flavor profile but still pairs nicely with the Cajun spices.

What buns work best for Sloppy Joes?

Soft yet sturdy buns like brioche or kaiser rolls are ideal. Whole wheat or gluten-free buns also work if you're adjusting for dietary needs.

Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes for Beginners

Name: Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes for Beginners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 hamburger buns; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Optional toppings: sliced pickles, shredded cheese, coleslaw

Description

Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are a bold and satisfying twist on the classic sandwich, made with seasoned ground chicken, sautéed veggies, and a smoky, tangy sauce—all served on toasted buns. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and beginner cooks looking for quick and healthy meals packed with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground chicken
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 hamburger buns
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional toppings: sliced pickles, shredded cheese, coleslaw

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced bell pepper and onion, and sauté until the vegetables are soft and slightly translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Add Garlic for Aroma: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Brown the Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet and break it up with a spoon. Cook until no pink remains and it’s fully browned, around 6 to 7 minutes.
Make the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Reduce heat and let everything simmer together for 8 to 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly.
Toast the Buns: While the sauce simmers, toast the hamburger buns in a dry skillet or toaster until golden and warm.
Assemble and Serve: Spoon the spicy chicken mixture onto the bottom halves of the buns. Add any optional toppings like pickles, cheese, or coleslaw, then place the top bun on and serve hot.

Notes

For a less spicy version, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild variety. To make it dairy-free, skip cheese toppings and check the ingredients in your Cajun blend. This filling can be served over rice, in lettuce wraps, or stuffed into bell peppers for variation. It also freezes well—just cool completely before freezing and store in an airtight container.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 800 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 22 g
Cholesterol: 80 mg