Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

These Cajun chicken sloppy joes take the classic sandwich and give it a Louisiana kick. Ground chicken simmers in a smoky, tangy tomato sauce with Cajun seasoning, bell peppers, and onions, then piles onto toasted buns. They are messy, bold, and exactly the kind of dinner that makes everyone ask for seconds.

It is the kind of recipe you will come back to again and again — simple enough for a weeknight, and good enough for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Smoky, spicy sauce with tender chicken
• One skillet and 30 minutes
• A fun twist on a diner classic

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lb ground chicken
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 brioche hamburger buns
• 1/2 cup pickles, for serving
• 1 cup coleslaw, for serving (optional)

How to Make It

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is no longer pink.
3. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook for 4 minutes, until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.

4. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and stir for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
6. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring now and then, until the sauce thickens.
7. Toast the buns cut-side down in a dry skillet for 1 minute. Pile the chicken mixture onto the buns and serve with pickles and coleslaw.

Pro Tips

• Taste the sauce before adding extra salt. Cajun seasoning blends vary a lot in saltiness.
• For a milder version, use 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and add a pinch of cayenne at the end.
• The filling tastes even better the next day, so make it ahead if you can.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with coleslaw, pickles, and sweet potato fries. A cold glass of lemonade or iced tea is the perfect drink alongside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?

Yes. Ground beef works the same way. Drain off any extra fat before adding the vegetables.

Can I make the filling ahead?

Yes. Refrigerate it for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat it gently on the stove.

How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?

Toast them well and spoon the filling on just before serving. A layer of coleslaw on the bottom bun helps too.