Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes bring together the best of both worlds—comfort food and bold flavors. Unlike traditional sloppy joes made with beef, this version uses lean ground chicken for a lighter yet still hearty meal. The Cajun seasoning adds a spicy kick, while the creamy mayo and melted cheese balance it out with richness. Best of all, they come together quickly, making them a great option for a fast and delicious meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground chicken
• 15 oz canned corn, drained
• 1/2 cup diced red onions
• 10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/2 cup mayo
• 4 large hamburger buns
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F to toast the buns.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, cook the ground chicken until fully browned and crumbled.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the canned corn and diced red onions. Cook for 3 more minutes.
4. Season the Mixture: Add the cream of chicken soup, Cajun seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and let simmer.
5. Incorporate Mayo: Stir in the mayo until well combined for a creamy texture.
6. Toast the Buns: Place the hamburger buns on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 4-5 minutes.
7. Assemble the Sandwiches: Spoon the chicken mixture onto the bottom buns. Sprinkle with shredded cheese, then top with the other bun halves.
8. Serve Hot: Enjoy immediately with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Extra Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the filling.
• Different Protein: Substitute ground chicken with turkey or lean ground beef.
• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat or a mixture of lentils and mushrooms.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the filling over lettuce wraps instead of buns.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
• Freezing: The cooked filling can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and reheat it before assembling the sandwiches.

What’s the best type of bread to use?

Sturdy hamburger buns or brioche buns work best as they hold up to the saucy filling.

Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Yes, but you can also make your own by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme.

How do I make this dish milder?

Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning and omit any additional spices like cayenne.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, celery, or jalapeños would be great additions.

What sides go well with Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes?

Coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or tater tots pair perfectly with these sandwiches.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayo?

Yes, Greek yogurt works as a healthier alternative.

How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?

Toasting the buns helps, and you can also serve the filling with a slotted spoon to drain excess moisture.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the chicken first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker on low for 2-3 hours.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free buns and check that your Cajun seasoning and cream of chicken soup are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are a delicious, spicy, and satisfying twist on a classic comfort food. Quick to prepare and full of bold flavors, this dish is perfect for weeknight meals or casual gatherings. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and cheesy goodness!