Description
Learn how to make delicious Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes! This recipe features ground chicken simmered in a tangy and spicy sauce, perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional toppings: sliced pickles, shredded cheese, coleslaw
Instructions
1. Cook the Vegetables: Building a Flavorful Base
- Heat Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced bell pepper and onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Tip: Stir the vegetables occasionally to prevent them from sticking or burning.
2. Add Garlic: Infusing with Aromatic Flavor
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the softened vegetables.
- Cook: Cook for another minute, or until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter.
3. Cook the Chicken: Browning for Tenderness and Flavor
- Add Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet.
- Break Up and Brown: Use a spoon or spatula to break up the chicken into smaller pieces as it cooks. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Sauce and Seasoning: Creating the Signature Cajun Flavor
- Stir in Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Add Seasonings: Add the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Combine: Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce and seasonings.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Toast the Buns: Adding a Touch of Texture
- Toast Buns: While the chicken mixture is simmering, toast the hamburger buns. You can do this in a separate skillet, in a toaster oven, or under the broiler.
- Tip: Lightly butter the cut sides of the buns before toasting for extra flavor and a golden-brown color.
6. Assemble the Sloppy Joes: Building the Perfect Sandwich
- Spoon Filling: Spoon a generous amount of the Cajun chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun.
- Add Toppings (Optional): If desired, add your favorite toppings, such as sliced pickles, shredded cheese, or coleslaw.
- Top with Bun: Place the top half of the bun over the filling.
7. Serve and Enjoy: A Flavorful and Satisfying Meal
- Serve Immediately: Serve the Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes immediately while they’re warm and the sauce is bubbly.
