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A close-up shot showcases the delicious Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes, piled high on toasted buns and ready to eat.

Irresistible Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

Elevate your Sloppy Joe game with this Cajun-inspired recipe! Diced chicken thighs simmer in a flavorful sauce made with the "holy trinity" of Cajun cooking – onion, celery, and bell pepper – plus a blend of aromatic spices, resulting in a sandwich bursting with savory, spicy, and slightly tangy flavors. Serve on toasted buns with your favorite toppings for a truly satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tbsp dried thyme
  • 1 tbsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tbsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 6 hamburger buns, toasted
  • Pickled jalapeños optional
  • Shredded cheddar cheese optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • small bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • spatula
  • Toaster

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Cajun Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine paprika, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with 1 tsp of the Cajun seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to the skillet. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Build the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Add the Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Simmer: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  6. Combine: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to combine and heat through.
  7. Assemble: Spoon the Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joe mixture onto the toasted hamburger buns.
  8. Serve: Top with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickled jalapeños, or shredded cheddar cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For a spicier flavor, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning. You can also use other types of bell peppers, such as red or yellow. Store any leftover sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving. To prevent soggy buns, consider lightly buttering the cut sides of the buns before toasting.