Cabbage Slaw with Chicken

Name: Cabbage Slaw with Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups green cabbage, shredded; 1 cup red cabbage, shredded; 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded; 1/2 cup carrots, grated; 1/4 cup green onions, sliced; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

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I absolutely love this Cabbage Slaw with Chicken recipe! It's a vibrant, crunchy dish that showcases how well fresh ingredients can come together. Whenever I make this slaw, I’m reminded of summer barbecues and family gatherings. The juicy chicken adds a protein punch, while the crisp cabbage and tangy dressing create a refreshing contrast. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a light lunch. I often double the recipe to have leftovers that are just as tasty the next day!

Created by

The Chefnoahfoods Team

Last updated on 2026-03-18T16:35:35.603Z

This Cabbage Slaw with Chicken has become a staple in my household. I love how the crunch from the cabbage perfectly complements the tender chicken. One particular trick I discovered was allowing the slaw to rest for a bit after dressing it; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes the slaw even more delicious.

Whenever I serve this dish, I remember a summer picnic where it stole the show. Everyone loved the vibrant colors and wholesome flavors. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with grilled meats or even as a filling in wraps. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll quickly become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deliciously crunchy texture that satisfies
A perfect balance of flavors with a tangy dressing
Quick and easy to make, great for any meal

Ingredient Importance

The combination of green and red cabbage in this slaw not only adds vibrant color but also a variety of crunch and sweetness. Green cabbage is milder and provides a sturdy base, while red cabbage offers a slight peppery flavor and added antioxidants. Using both types ensures that each bite is interesting and full of textures. If you prefer, you can experiment with Napa cabbage for a softer texture, or add savoy cabbage for its crinkly leaves and unique taste.

Carrots contribute an essential sweetness and extra crunch, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the slaw. When grating the carrots, aim for uniform pieces so that they mix evenly with the cabbage and chicken. For a twist on flavor, try substituting the carrots with julienned bell peppers or radishes, which will add a different type of crunch and a splash of color.

Dressing Techniques

The mayonnaise dressing is creamy but can also be tailored to suit your taste preferences. For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, which offers a tangy flavor and additional protein. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, consider using a vegan mayonnaise or a blend of olive oil and lemon juice for a similar effect. This allows the slaw to remain fresh and flavorful without compromise.

When making the dressing, whisk thoroughly until the mixture is glossy and well blended. The honey not only provides sweetness but also helps to balance the acidity from the apple cider vinegar. Taste the dressing before combining to ensure it meets your desired flavor profile; feel free to adjust the sweetness or acidity by adding a bit more honey or vinegar, respectively. A pinch of cumin or smoked paprika can also elevate the dressing's flavor, giving it an unexpected twist.

Serving and Storage Tips

Chilling the slaw for at least 10 minutes is crucial, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more harmonious dish. If you have more time, letting it sit for an hour is even better for deeper flavor development. Consider topping the slaw with sliced almonds or chopped peanuts right before serving for added texture. This also gives it a nice crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy dressing.

Leftovers of this slaw can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep in mind that as the slaw sits, the cabbage will soften, slightly changing its texture. To maintain some crunch, you could store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving. This strategy will help keep the ingredients fresh and retain that delightful crunch you desire.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your Cabbage Slaw with Chicken:

Ingredients

2 cups green cabbage, shredded
1 cup red cabbage, shredded
1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
1/2 cup carrots, grated
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix these ingredients well for a fantastic dish!

Instructions

Here’s how to make your Cabbage Slaw with Chicken step-by-step:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green and red cabbage, grated carrots, and sliced green onions. Make sure everything is well mixed to create a colorful base for your slaw.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. This dressing adds a lovely creaminess to the slaw.

Combine Chicken and Dressing

Add the shredded chicken to the cabbage mix, then pour the dressing over the top. Carefully fold everything together until all ingredients are coat evenly.

Chill and Serve

Cover the slaw and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to combine beautifully. Serve it fresh as a side dish or a main course!

Enjoy your freshly made Cabbage Slaw with Chicken!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding sliced almonds or sunflower seeds. This slaw also makes a great topping for sandwiches or tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is over-mixing the slaw after adding the dressing. While it's important to coat the ingredients evenly, doing so too aggressively can lead to mushy cabbage and a less appealing texture. Instead, gently fold the mixture with a spatula until just combined, allowing the cabbage to maintain its crispness.

Another pitfall is skipping the chilling step. Not allowing the slaw to rest can lead to a lack of flavor integration and diminish the overall enjoyment of the dish. If you’re short on time, even a quick 10-minute chill in the fridge can significantly enhance the flavors and make for a better overall experience.

Scaling and Variations

If you're serving a crowd, scaling up this recipe is straightforward. Just double or triple the ingredients, ensuring that you have a large enough mixing bowl for everything. Keep the proportions of the dressing consistent to ensure balanced flavors. For a change, consider adding ingredients such as diced apples or dried cranberries for a fruity twist that complements the crunch of the cabbage and the savory chicken.

You can also swap out the chicken for other proteins. Grilled shrimp or shredded pork work wonderfully, and for a vegetarian option, chickpeas offer a great protein alternative. The key is to keep the dressing intact, as it serves as the slaw's base flavor; however, don’t hesitate to infuse it with herbs or spices that pair well with your chosen protein.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a stir before serving again.

→ Can I make the slaw in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance, but mix in the dressing just before serving to maintain the crunchiness.

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette for a lighter option if you prefer not to use mayonnaise.