Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe
Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes offer a speedy, flavorful twist on the classic sandwich by combining tender shredded chicken with bold Cajun spices, sautéed bell peppers and onions, and a tangy tomato-based sauce. This family-friendly recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights, and can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
- Author: Sarah
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Gluten Free
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
Vegetables
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (green or red)
- 1 medium onion, diced
Spices & Sauces
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, herbs)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
Cooking Fats & Buns
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 4 soft hamburger buns
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts or thighs and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from heat and shred using two forks or chop finely depending on desired texture.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant, forming a flavorful base.
- Add Seasonings and Sauce: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the vegetables, stirring well to allow the spices to bloom. Stir in tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar, mixing thoroughly to combine all flavors.
- Combine and Simmer: Return shredded chicken to the skillet and stir until fully coated with the sauce. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes so the flavors meld together perfectly.
- Toast the Buns and Serve: Lightly toast hamburger buns to prevent sogginess and add texture. Spoon a generous amount of the Cajun chicken mixture onto each bun. Optional garnishes include sliced jalapeños, pickles, shredded cheese, or chopped green onions.
Notes
- Use fresh or homemade Cajun seasoning for the most vibrant flavor.
- Do not overcook bell peppers and onions; keep them slightly crisp for texture contrast.
- Adjust spice levels by adding cayenne pepper gradually to avoid overpowering heat.
- The filling tastes better after resting for a few hours, allowing flavors to deepen.
- Opt for soft yet sturdy buns to hold the juicy filling without falling apart.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: Cajun chicken sloppy joes, easy Cajun sloppy joes, quick weeknight dinner, shredded chicken sandwich, spicy chicken sloppy joes, family-friendly Cajun recipe