Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on a classic favorite, packed with bold spices and tender shredded chicken. Instead of the usual ground beef, this version uses juicy chicken tossed in a flavorful Cajun sauce with a little kick, all piled high on soft sandwich buns. It’s a messy, saucy meal that brings a bit of Southern charm to your dinner table.
I love making these because they’re quick to whip up but still feel special. The combo of smoky, spicy Cajun seasoning with the sweet and tangy sauce always gets compliments from family and friends. I usually cook extra so there’s plenty to skip straight out of the pan for snacking—or add a little extra hot sauce if I’m feeling bold that day.
My favorite way to serve these sloppy Joes is with a side of crunchy pickles and some creamy coleslaw to balance out the spices. Plus, they’re perfect for casual dinners or game day—everyone gets their hands a little messy, and it’s all part of the fun! If you like flavorful, hearty sandwiches that don’t take much time, this one’s a winner in my book.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs stay juicier, but breasts are leaner. You can also swap in shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
Cajun Seasoning: This is the flavor star! If you don’t have a blend on hand, mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and black pepper. Adjust cayenne to control the heat.
Tomato Sauce & Paste: The sauce combination thickens and balances the spices. If you want a smoother texture, crushed tomatoes work well too.
Cheese: Cheddar melts beautifully and adds creaminess. Pepper jack is great for a little extra spice. Feel free to skip or replace with a dairy-free cheese for lactose-free diets.
Hot Sauce: Add this last for your desired spicy kick. If you prefer milder food, reduce or omit it altogether.
How Do You Get the Chicken Tender and Well-Flavored?
The key is to cook the chicken until it’s fully cooked but not dry, then shred it finely for better sauce absorption.
- Boil or steam the chicken just until cooked (about 15 mins), then shred with forks while warm.
- Sauté the veggies and spices first to release their aromas before mixing in the chicken.
- Simmer the shredded chicken in the sauce so it soaks up that Cajun flavor and stays juicy.
Taking time during the simmering step really lets the flavors blend. Also, shredding while the chicken is warm makes it easier and results in a better texture inside the sloppy Joes.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I prefer a wide pan to cook the chicken, sauté the veggies, and simmer the sauce all in one place.
- Cooking forks – perfect for shredding the cooked chicken easily.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring everything together smoothly.
- Baking sheet or toaster oven – to lightly toast the buns so they’re warm and crispy.
- Broiler-safe oven rack – for melting the cheese quickly without overbaking the buns.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked shredded turkey or beef for a different protein option, especially if you have leftovers.
- Add a splash of bourbon or smoked paprika for a more smoky, rich flavor.
- Sauté chopped celery or carrots with the onions for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Top with sliced jalapenos or hot sauce if you like more heat and spice.
Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup bell pepper, finely diced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4-6 sandwich buns (soft hamburger buns or slider buns)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese (or pepper jack for extra kick)
- Optional garnish: chopped red onion, chopped parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, totaling roughly 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook and Shred the Chicken:
If using raw chicken, place the breasts or thighs in boiling water or broth and cook until fully done, about 15 minutes. Remove and shred the chicken using two forks. If you prefer, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Spices and Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, stirring well to coat it with the spices and veggies. Then mix in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and brown sugar. Let everything simmer gently for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
5. Toast Buns & Melt Cheese:
Preheat your oven’s broiler. Lightly toast the buns under the broiler for 1–2 minutes until golden. Spoon the chicken mixture onto the bottom halves, then top each with a slice of cheese. Place back under the broiler just until the cheese melts and bubbles—about 1–2 minutes.
6. Assemble and Serve:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped red onion and parsley on top if you like a fresh crunch. Place the bun tops over the filling and serve your Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes right away with sides like coleslaw, chips, or pickles. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps it shred easily and absorb the sauce flavors better.
Can I Make Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. Prepare the chicken mixture up to 2 days in advance, store it covered in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stove before assembling the sandwiches.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until warmed through.
What Can I Serve with These Sloppy Joes?
They go great with creamy coleslaw, crunchy pickles, potato chips, or a simple side salad to balance the spicy flavors.
