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Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe

Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe
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This Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Recipe offers a bold, flavorful twist on classic sloppy joes by combining tender, juicy chicken thighs with fragrant Cajun seasoning and a tangy, saucy tomato base. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and satisfies with hearty, spicy comfort food loved by families and friends alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into small bite-sized pieces

Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 1 bell pepper, finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Seasonings & Sauces

  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning blend (paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, herbs)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp cooking oil (for searing)

Serving

  • Soft hamburger buns, lightly toasted

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Finely dice the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Slice the chicken thighs into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking and to allow all the flavors to blend beautifully.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a touch of oil, and cook the chicken pieces until they’re golden brown on the outside but not yet fully cooked inside—this locks in their juiciness.
  3. Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, toss in the diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes, which brings out their natural sweetness and balances the spice.
  4. Combine and Season: Add the chicken back into the skillet, sprinkle the Cajun seasoning evenly, then pour in the tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together, reduce the heat, and simmer for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens and flavors meld.
  5. Toast the Buns and Serve: Lightly toast your hamburger buns on a griddle or in the oven to add a bit of crunch and prevent them from getting soggy. Pile on the saucy Cajun chicken mixture and enjoy immediately.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Cajun Seasoning: Freshly mixed or high-quality pre-made seasoning makes all the difference for a bright, balanced heat.
  • Don’t Overcook Chicken: Slightly undercook the chicken during searing since it finishes in the sauce and will stay juicy.
  • Simmer Gently: Low and slow simmering helps the flavors to deepen without drying out the sauce.
  • Toast Buns Well: Adds texture contrast and helps them hold up to the saucy filling.
  • Adjust Heat Gradually: Add cayenne or hot sauce slowly to match your spice tolerance without overwhelming the dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken sloppy joes, quick dinner, spicy chicken sandwich, easy weeknight meal, gluten-free sloppy joes

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/easy-cajun-chicken-sloppy-joes-recipe/