Why Make This Recipe
Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on the classic sloppy joes you might remember from childhood. With a delicious blend of flavors from Cajun seasoning, this dish brings a bit of spice to your dinner table. It’s quick to make, uses simple ingredients, and is sure to please the whole family. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy ground chicken, making it a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.
How to Make Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- Sliced pickles and cheese, optional for serving
Directions
- In a large skillet, cook the diced onion and bell pepper over medium heat until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
- Serve the chicken mixture on hamburger buns, topped with sliced pickles and cheese if desired.
How to Serve Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
Serve your Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes hot on hamburger buns. You can add sliced pickles and cheese for extra flavor. They pair well with coleslaw or a side salad for a complete meal. You might also want to consider some sweet potato fries or chips for a crunchy complement.
How to Store Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
To store leftovers, let the chicken mixture cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken mixture. Just make sure to use it within 2-3 months for the best taste.
Tips to Make Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
- Make sure not to overcook the ground chicken; it should be just cooked through.
- If you like more heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños to the mixture.
- For added texture, you can mix in some corn or black beans.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, try using ground turkey or beef instead of chicken. You can also add different vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with lentils or a meat substitute.
FAQs
1. Can I use other meats in this recipe?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, beef, or even a meat substitute to make a vegetarian version.
2. How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level can vary based on the Cajun seasoning you use. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less seasoning and adjust to your taste.
3. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights!
Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Poultry
Description
A fun twist on classic sloppy joes, featuring ground chicken and Cajun seasoning for a flavorful and lighter meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- Sliced pickles and cheese, optional for serving
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the diced onion and bell pepper over medium heat until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
- Serve the chicken mixture on hamburger buns, topped with sliced pickles and cheese if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, serve with coleslaw or a side salad. Sweet potato fries or chips make a great crunchy complement.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
