If you’ve been craving something bold, saucy, and downright satisfying, these Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are about to steal the show at your dinner table. I can’t tell you how much I love sharing recipes that deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss, and this one checks every box. Tender bites of Cajun-spiced chicken, smoky paprika warmth, sweet peppers, and a tangy tomato-based sauce all tucked into pillowy toasted brioche buns… yes, please!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I promised you versatile, and here’s proof! This isn’t just another chicken sandwich—it’s a flavor explosion with the kind of saucy goodness that drips down your fingers (the best kind of messy!). Here’s why you’ll keep coming back to it:
- Bold & Spicy – Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika bring a warm, smoky heat without overpowering the dish
- Quick Weeknight Dinner – Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s weeknight-friendly and family-approved
- Customizable – Spice levels, toppings, and serving styles are all up to you
- Crowd-Pleaser – Whether for game day, casual gatherings, or family dinner, it’s always a hit
The flavor is a little smoky, a little tangy, with a savory depth from Worcestershire sauce and just enough sweetness from ketchup to balance it out.
Benefits of This Recipe
- Lean Protein – Chicken breast or thighs give you a good protein boost without the heaviness of beef
- Veggie Boost – Bell peppers and onions sneak in fiber and vitamins while adding flavor and texture
- Make-Ahead Friendly – The chicken filling reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep
Ingredients for Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
For the Chicken Filling
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
For Serving
- 4 brioche buns, toasted
- Optional: melted cheese or creamy ranch/aioli for topping
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Toaster or grill pan for buns
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
- Protein Swap – Try ground chicken or turkey for an even quicker cook time
- Veggie Variations – Add corn, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra texture
- Heat Level – For extra spice, toss in cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños
- Sauce Twist – Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce for a smokier, sweeter flavor profile
How to Make Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
Step 1 – Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned.
Step 2 – Add the Veggies
Stir in onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3 – Make the Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine. Lower the heat and simmer for 8–10 minutes, letting the sauce thicken and coat the chicken.
Step 4 – Assemble
Spoon the saucy Cajun chicken mixture onto toasted brioche buns. Add melted cheese or a creamy drizzle of ranch/aioli if you want extra indulgence.
Step 5 – Serve
Serve warm with fries, potato chips, or a crisp green salad.
What to Serve with Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
- Classic French Fries – Always a winning combo
- Sweet Potato Wedges – Slight sweetness balances the spice
- Coleslaw – Cool, crunchy contrast to the warm, saucy chicken
- Corn on the Cob – Especially great for summer gatherings
Tips for Making the Perfect Sloppy Joes
- Toast the Buns – This keeps them from going soggy under the saucy filling
- Don’t Overcook Chicken – Dice evenly for quick, even cooking and keep it tender
- Taste & Adjust Seasoning – Cajun seasoning blends vary; add more if you want bolder flavor
- Make It Ahead – The filling tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld
Storage Instructions
- Fridge – Store cooled chicken mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezer – Freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating
- Reheating – Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes! Add cayenne pepper, extra Cajun seasoning, or hot sauce to your liking.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Just shred it, toss it in with the sauce, and reduce simmer time to 3–4 minutes.
What’s the best bread for sloppy joes?
Soft, slightly sweet buns like brioche are perfect, but potato rolls work well too.
Conclusion
These Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are proof that quick dinners can be exciting, flavorful, and totally crave-worthy. The blend of spices, the juicy chicken, and that saucy coating—it’s a messy masterpiece you’ll be happy to devour. Once you try them, they might just replace your classic beef sloppy joe recipe for good.
If you loved this, try my recipes for Honey BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders or Sweet & Spicy Grilled Chicken Sandwiches next!
I’d love to see your creations—share a photo on Pinterest and leave a review below.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, without toppings)
- Calories: ~370
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 8g
Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
Description
These Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are a quick, flavor-packed twist on the classic! Juicy chicken is tossed with Cajun spices, smoky paprika, sweet peppers, and a tangy tomato-based sauce, then piled high on toasted brioche buns. Ready in under 30 minutes, this is weeknight comfort food with a bold kick that your whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Filling
1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add diced chicken, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5–6 minutes until chicken is lightly browned.
Stir in onion and bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and chicken broth. Stir well, reduce heat, and simmer for 8–10 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
Pile the Cajun chicken mixture onto toasted brioche buns. Top with cheese or a drizzle of ranch/aioli if desired.
Serve warm with fries, chips, or a fresh salad.
Notes
For extra heat, add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
Ground chicken or turkey can be swapped for diced chicken to save time.
Make ahead: The filling tastes even better the next day—store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Toasting the buns helps keep them from getting soggy and adds a nice crunch.
