Chicken Apple Coleslaw

If you’re looking for the perfect blend of crisp, savory, and sweet, this Chicken Apple Coleslaw is the answer. Trust me when I say that this dish is a game-changer! With tender, juicy chicken, crisp apples, and a creamy, tangy dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, packing a healthy lunch, or just craving something fresh and filling, this recipe will hit the spot. Let’s dive in, because you’re going to love every bite.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Apple Coleslaw

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

• Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something fresh and satisfying in no time. Or picture serving it at a BBQ, where guests are asking for the recipe.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. This dish proves that simple, fresh ingredients can create extraordinary flavors without breaking the bank.
• Quick and Easy: The steps are simple, and you can have this ready in no time, even on your busiest days. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you look like a kitchen pro without all the stress!
• Customizable: Whether you love a touch of spice or prefer a mild dish, you can tweak this recipe to fit your taste. Add some jalapeños for a kick or keep it sweet with extra apples—your choice!
• Crowd-Pleasing: This dish strikes the perfect balance of crunchy and creamy, savory and sweet. It’s a guaranteed hit with everyone—from kids to adults.

Ingredients in Chicken Apple Coleslaw

Here’s where the magic begins! This coleslaw might just become your new favorite dish, and it all starts with a few simple ingredients. Let’s break it down:

• Shredded Chicken: Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. You can use rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut or cook up your own. The chicken adds heartiness to the dish, making it both satisfying and delicious.
• Apples: Crisp and refreshing, apples provide the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Choose a tart variety like Granny Smith for a zingy flavor or something sweeter like Fuji for a milder sweetness.
• Shredded Cabbage: The base of any coleslaw, cabbage gives the dish its satisfying crunch. It’s the perfect canvas for all those tasty toppings and dressings.
• Carrots: Fresh, sweet, and slightly earthy, shredded carrots add color and another layer of texture to your coleslaw.
• Green Onions: For a bit of sharpness and flavor contrast, green onions bring the perfect balance to the mix.
• Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, Greek yogurt serves as the base for your dressing. It’s a lighter, healthier alternative to mayonnaise, but still just as creamy!
• Honey: Just a drizzle of honey helps bring out the natural sweetness of the apples while balancing the tangy yogurt in the dressing.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: A dash of this gives the coleslaw a nice tang, enhancing all the fresh flavors in the dish.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

1. Cook the Chicken: Begin by cooking your chicken. If you’re using raw chicken breasts, season and cook them until they’re golden and cooked through. Shred the chicken once it’s cooled enough to handle. Alternatively, use store-bought rotisserie chicken for an even quicker option!

2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the chicken is cooling, shred the cabbage, carrots, and slice the apples into thin, bite-sized pieces. Green onions should be finely chopped.

3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking, adding more honey for sweetness or vinegar for tang if desired.

4. Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cabbage, carrots, apples, and green onions. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently until everything is well-coated.

5. Chill and Serve: Let the coleslaw chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 180

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Chicken Apple Coleslaw

This coleslaw pairs wonderfully with various sides and mains. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

• Grilled Meats: Perfect with grilled chicken, pork, or burgers. The fresh, tangy coleslaw is a refreshing contrast to the smoky, savory flavors.
• On Sandwiches or Wraps: This coleslaw can be piled on top of your favorite sandwich or wrapped up in a tortilla for a light lunch or dinner.
• As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, baked potatoes, or even a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• On Its Own: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own—just garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for that finishing touch.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Prep Ahead: Save time by shredding the vegetables and chicken the night before. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble the coleslaw just before serving.
• Spice It Up: If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños to the dressing for a spicy kick.
• Make It Dairy-Free: If you’re dairy-free, swap the Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt or a creamy avocado dressing.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, serve the coleslaw fresh to maintain its crispness.
• Double the Batch: This recipe can be easily doubled if you’re serving a crowd, and it’s just as delicious the next day.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute the Greek yogurt with mayonnaise?
A1: Absolutely! If you prefer the traditional mayo-based coleslaw, feel free to use mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt. The texture will be richer, but it will still taste amazing!

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, this is a great make-ahead recipe! You can prepare the coleslaw and refrigerate it for a few hours to let the flavors meld together. Just be sure to give it a good toss before serving.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The coleslaw will soften a bit as it sits, but the flavors will still be delicious.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: I wouldn’t recommend freezing coleslaw, as the texture of the cabbage and apples will change once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Coleslaw is best served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. Just take it out of the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Yes! This recipe is easy to double if you’re serving a larger group. Just make sure you have a big enough bowl to toss everything together!

Q7: Can I use a different fruit besides apples?
A7: Sure! Pears or grapes would be a great substitute if you’re looking for a different twist. Just make sure to adjust the dressing to match the sweetness of the fruit.

Q8: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A8: Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor. Just shred it and add it to your coleslaw!

Q9: How do I make this spicier?
A9: Add some finely chopped jalapeños to the slaw or mix a pinch of cayenne pepper into the dressing for an extra kick.

Q10: Can I add nuts to this recipe?
A10: Absolutely! Toasted almonds or walnuts would add a lovely crunch and flavor to the coleslaw.

Conclusion

Chicken Apple Coleslaw is the perfect balance of fresh, crunchy, savory, and sweet. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, it’s a refreshing and flavorful addition to any meal. Plus, it’s so easy to make that you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. So go ahead, give it a try—you won’t regret it!

Print