Thai Chicken Coleslaw is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the crunch of fresh cabbage and vegetables with tender pieces of chicken, all tossed in a zesty, sweet-and-spicy Thai-inspired dressing. This coleslaw is a delicious fusion of flavors, featuring ingredients like lime juice, fish sauce, and a hint of honey, complemented by the heat of sriracha. Fresh herbs like cilantro and mint add a burst of freshness, making this coleslaw both light and satisfying. Perfect as a main dish salad or a side, Thai Chicken Coleslaw is easy to prepare and brings a taste of Southeast Asia to your table. It’s a great option for a quick lunch, a healthy dinner, or a crowd-pleasing dish at picnics and potlucks.
Ingredients:
For the Coleslaw:
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional, for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp lime juice (about 1-2 limes)
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, sriracha, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste if necessary, balancing sweetness, acidity, and heat.
- Assemble the Coleslaw:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, shredded chicken, cilantro, mint, and green onions. Toss the vegetables and chicken together to mix evenly.
- Dress the Coleslaw:
- Pour the prepared dressing over the coleslaw mixture. Toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Let the coleslaw sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Transfer the Thai Chicken Coleslaw to a serving platter or bowl. Garnish with chopped peanuts for an added crunch if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Thai Chicken Coleslaw is a delightful, flavorful dish that brings together the crunch of fresh vegetables with the savory taste of chicken, all enveloped in a tangy and spicy Thai dressing. It’s a versatile recipe that works well as a light meal on its own or as a side to complement a variety of main dishes.
