I first made these Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes on a hectic weeknight when the kids wanted something saucy and handheld—and everyone went back for seconds. This version swaps traditional beef for ground chicken and layers in bold Cajun spices, so you get a lighter sandwich with big, Southern-inspired flavor. If you enjoy quick chicken dinners that still feel a little special, you’ll find it fits perfectly alongside other easy family meals like my collection of chicken dishes.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe hits a sweet spot: fast, budget-friendly, and full of personality. Ground chicken cooks quickly, the one-pot skillet keeps cleanup minimal, and Cajun seasoning brings warmth without needing a dozen ingredients. It’s ideal for weeknights, casual gatherings, or days when you want a comforting sandwich that’s a step up from ordinary sloppy joes.
“A perfect weeknight switch-up — spicy, saucy, and ready in under 20 minutes. Even picky eaters asked for seconds.” — home cook review
How this recipe comes together
Start by browning the ground chicken with aromatics to develop flavor. Add the bell pepper for texture, then stir in tomato sauce and the Cajun seasoning so the spices bloom in the pan. A brief simmer thickens and melds everything, and you’re ready to spoon the hot mixture onto toasted buns. Expect about 15–20 minutes active time from start to finish.
What you’ll need
- 1 lb ground chicken (lean is fine; see notes for substitutions)
- 1 onion, diced (yellow or white)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce and tomato for topping (optional)
Notes and substitutions inline:
- Ground turkey or lean ground pork can replace ground chicken one-to-one.
- If you don’t have tomato sauce, use 6 oz crushed tomatoes + 2 tbsp water or a concentrated 2 tbsp tomato paste mixed with water.
- Use low-sodium Cajun seasoning if you’re watching salt; add extra if you want more kick.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium. Add a tablespoon of neutral oil if your chicken is very lean. Add the ground chicken, diced onion, and minced garlic.
- Break the chicken up with a spatula and cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper as it cooks.
- Add the diced bell pepper and cook for another 2–3 minutes until it softens but still has a bit of bite.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for 3–5 minutes so flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or seasoning.
- Toast the hamburger buns if desired, then spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto each bun. Top with lettuce and sliced tomato if using, and serve hot.
Tip: Ground chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. If you’re uncertain, a quick digital thermometer check is worth it.
Best ways to enjoy it
These sandwiches are great as-is, but a few serving ideas elevate them:
- Serve with crisp oven fries or sweet potato wedges for a classic pairing.
- A simple coleslaw adds cool crunch and balances the spice.
- For a handheld meal, make slider-sized portions on dinner rolls.
- Want an alternate wrap? Spoon the mixture into tortillas and add shredded cheddar and greens—similar in spirit to my cheesy garlic chicken wraps if you like stuffed handhelds.
- Add pickled red onions or dill pickles to cut the richness.
How to store & freeze
- Refrigerate: Cool leftovers to room temperature, transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate within two hours. Keeps for 3–4 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave covered in 30-second bursts stirring in between.
- Freeze: Freeze cooled mixture in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Food safety reminder: reheat leftovers to 165°F before serving.
Pro chef tips
- Break up the chicken into small pieces as it browns so you get a saucy, cohesive texture rather than large clumps.
- If your Cajun seasoning is very salty, reduce added salt until after tasting.
- To deepen flavor quickly, brown the meat until lightly caramelized—those brown bits add savory complexity.
- Toasting buns adds texture and prevents them from getting soggy from the saucy filling.
- If the sauce seems thin, simmer a bit longer uncovered, or stir in 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water to thicken.
Creative twists
- Spicy Creole: Add 1 tsp cayenne or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
- Smoky: Stir in 1/2 tsp smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke for a barbecue-like note.
- Creamy version: Mix in 2–3 tbsp cream cheese or sour cream just before serving for a milder, creamier finish.
- Low-carb: Serve in large lettuce leaves or low-carb buns.
- Vegetarian swap: Use crumbled tempeh or textured vegetable protein with the same spices and tomato sauce.
FAQ – Your questions answered
Q: How long does this take to make?
A: Active cooking time is about 15–20 minutes; from start to table around 20 minutes total.
Q: Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
A: Yes. Cook and cool the mixture, then refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat fully before serving.
Q: My family doesn’t like spicy food—how do I tone it down?
A: Reduce the Cajun seasoning to 1 tablespoon and add a pinch of smoked paprika for flavor without the heat. You can also stir in a little honey or brown sugar to round out the spice.
Q: Can I use ground turkey or beef instead?
A: Absolutely. Ground turkey is a direct swap; beef will give a richer, more classic sloppy joe flavor.
Q: How can I thicken the sauce quickly?
A: Simmer uncovered a few extra minutes, or mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp cold water and stir it in, cooking 1–2 minutes until thickened.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Yes—reduce the Cajun seasoning for kids and offer toppings on the side so they can customize.
Enjoy your meal!
Give this Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes recipe a try on a busy night when you want bold flavor without fuss. If you make it, drop a comment below and tell me which variation you tried.
Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
Method
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of neutral oil if your chicken is very lean.
- Add the ground chicken, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper as it cooks.
- Add the diced bell pepper and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until it softens but still has a bit of bite.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and Cajun seasoning. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for 3–5 minutes so flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or additional Cajun seasoning as desired.
- Toast the hamburger buns if desired, then spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto each bun.
- Top with lettuce and sliced tomato if using, and serve hot.