Description
Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes offer a bold and spicy twist on the classic sloppy joe sandwich. Tender chicken breast cubes are seasoned with a robust blend of Cajun spices, sautéed to perfection, and simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce loaded with smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors. Served on toasted hamburger buns with optional toppings like coleslaw, shredded cheddar, and pickled jalapeños, this hearty dish delivers a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for casual dinners or game day gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cajun Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for seasoning chicken)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for chicken seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (for chicken seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for chicken seasoning)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for sauce)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 8 hamburger buns
Optional Toppings:
- Coleslaw
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Pickled jalapeños
- Hot sauce
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat the chicken evenly with spices.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Cook 5-7 minutes until chicken is cooked through and lightly browned on all sides, taking care to avoid overcooking.
- Set Aside: Remove chicken from skillet and place in a bowl. Cover with foil to keep warm while preparing the sauce.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and green bell pepper and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with juice, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to combine thoroughly.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly and flavors meld.
- Season to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional cayenne pepper to preferred spiciness.
- Add Chicken to Sauce: Return cooked chicken to the skillet and stir well to coat the pieces evenly with sauce.
- Simmer Together: Allow chicken and sauce to simmer together for another 5-10 minutes so the chicken absorbs flavors. Stir occasionally.
- Prepare the Buns: Lightly toast hamburger buns to prevent sogginess and add texture.
- Spoon the Filling: Generously spoon the Cajun chicken sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.
- Add Toppings (Optional): Top with coleslaw, shredded cheddar cheese, pickled jalapeños, hot sauce, or any preferred toppings.
- Serve Immediately: Place the top bun on each sandwich and serve while hot. Enjoy your Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes!
Notes
- Adjust the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- For easier cleanup, use a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan.
- To make homemade Cajun seasoning, mix the listed Cajun seasoning ingredients thoroughly and store any extra in an airtight container.
- Toasting buns prevents sogginess from the saucy filling.
- Optional toppings like coleslaw and pickled jalapeños add texture and contrast to the spicy chicken.
- Leftover sloppy joe mixture can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop.
