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Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes: The Bold, Spicy, Weeknight Hero Your Dinner Routine Needs


  • Author: WAFA LI

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breast or thighs, diced or shredded
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes (no sugar added)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1–2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 4–6 hamburger buns (or lettuce wraps for low-carb)
• Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, sliced avocado, green onions


Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add onion and bell pepper. Sauté 5–6 minutes until soft.
  2. Add garlic and diced chicken. Cook 6–8 minutes, stirring often, until chicken is cooked through.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, vinegar, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
  4. Simmer 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavors meld.
  5. Taste and adjust: more vinegar for tang, Cajun spice for kick, or a pinch of sugar to balance acidity.
  6. Spoon hot mixture onto toasted buns or lettuce cups.
  7. Top with crunchy coleslaw, pickles, or your favorite fixings!

Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights with a Southern flair!

💡 Make it ahead: This tastes even better the next day! Store in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for longer.

PREP TIME & NUTRITION :
Prep Time : 10 mins , Cook Time : 20 mins , Total Time : 30 mins , Servings : 4–6 , Calories : 290 (with bun) , Net Carbs: 24g , Fats: 9g , Protein: 26g