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Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
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Easy Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes offer a bold and spicy twist on the classic sloppy joe sandwich. Featuring tender shredded chicken infused with vibrant Cajun seasoning, sautéed veggies, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this meal is quick to prepare, packed with lean protein, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Served on soft sandwich buns, it delivers a flavorful, juicy, and satisfying experience everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast or thighs

Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 medium bell pepper, diced

Seasonings and Sauces

  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend (paprika, cayenne, garlic, herbs)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Optional: 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce, to taste

Cooking Fats

  • 1–2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Bread

  • 4–6 soft buns or sandwich rolls (regular, gluten-free, or lettuce wraps)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cook chicken breasts or thighs by boiling, baking, or slow-cooking until tender. Once cooked, shred the chicken using forks or your hands for juicy, pull-apart pieces ready to absorb the spices.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened and aromatic, about 5 minutes. This adds sweetness and texture beneath the spicy chicken.
  3. Mix in Cajun Seasoning and Sauces: Stir in the Cajun seasoning blend and cook for about one minute to release its full flavor. Add tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and optional hot sauce. Let the mixture simmer gently until thickened and flavors meld.
  4. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, stirring thoroughly to coat each bite with the rich Cajun sauce. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the chicken to fully absorb the sauce.
  5. Assemble and Serve: Lightly toast the buns, then generously pile on the saucy Cajun chicken mixture. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with green onions, shredded lettuce, or pickled jalapeño slices for freshness and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh or recently opened Cajun seasoning for the best flavor.
  • Adjust the heat level by starting with less cayenne and hot sauce, increasing to taste.
  • Avoid overcooking chicken initially to keep it juicy and tender.
  • If the sauce is too runny, simmer uncovered a few minutes longer to thicken.
  • Toasting buns adds a crispy texture and helps prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken, sloppy joes, shredded chicken, spicy sandwich, quick dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food, spicy sloppy joe, Cajun seasoning

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