Recipe Description:

These Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are a flavorful twist on a classic favorite, featuring ground chicken cooked with vibrant vegetables and a zesty Cajun seasoning blend. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, these sandwiches are hearty, satisfying, and can be customized with your favorite toppings.

Full Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 bell pepper (red or green), finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional toppings: sliced pickles, shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, or cheese

Full Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Next, add the ground chicken to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to ensure the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the spices.
5. Pour in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Mix everything together until well combined.
6. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth.
7. After simmering, taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed.
8. While the chicken mixture is simmering, prepare the hamburger buns. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you prefer toasted buns.
9. Slice the buns in half and place them on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Once the chicken mixture is ready and the buns are toasted, assemble your Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes by spooning a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.
11. Add any optional toppings like sliced pickles, shredded lettuce, or sliced tomatoes, and a slice of cheese if desired.
12. Place the top half of the bun on each sandwich and press down gently.
13. Serve immediately while warm, paired with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad.

Notes:

– Adjust the cayenne pepper to your spice preference.
– Leftover chicken mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

40 minutes

Yield:

4 servings