Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are a flavorful twist on the classic Sloppy Joe, using seasoned Cajun chicken for a spicy, savory filling. These sandwiches are perfect for a quick dinner or a fun party meal, packed with bold flavors and a little heat.
Ingredients:
For the Cajun Chicken:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sloppy Joe Sauce:
- 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sandwiches:
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for toasting buns)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Cajun Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it using two forks.
- Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce:
- In the same skillet (or a separate pan), add the tomato sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
- Add the shredded Cajun chicken to the simmering sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
- Let the mixture cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Toast the Buns (Optional):
- While the chicken and sauce are cooking, toast the hamburger buns by spreading butter on the cut sides and placing them face-down on a hot skillet until golden and crispy.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spoon a generous amount of the Cajun chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun.
- Top with the other half of the bun and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve the Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes hot with your favorite side, such as coleslaw, fries, or a simple salad.
Tips:
- You can use ground chicken instead of whole chicken breasts for a quicker preparation.
- For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
- These sandwiches are also great with a slice of cheese, like provolone or cheddar, melted on top before serving.
These Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes bring a deliciously spicy and savory twist to a classic favorite, perfect for a satisfying meal!