If you’re craving a salad that brings together savory chicken and crisp, sweet apple flavors with a creamy, tangy dressing, look no further than this Chicken Apple Coleslaw Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of textures and tastes all in one bowl, making it an ideal light lunch or a satisfying side that feels fresh, healthy, and downright delicious. The crunchy coleslaw mix, juicy apples, tender shredded chicken, and zesty dressing combine effortlessly to create a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Apple Coleslaw Recipe keeps things refreshingly simple, using ingredients that are easy to find yet essential for that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each component adds something special: from the creamy Greek yogurt-based dressing to the crisp apples that give a natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded): The protein star of the dish, shredded chicken adds heartiness and a meaty texture.
- 3 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots): Provides crunch, freshness, and a lovely blend of color to brighten the salad.
- 1 medium apple (julienned or thinly sliced): Adds a juicy, sweet-tart contrast that elevates the entire dish.
- 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced): Offers a mild sharpness for extra depth without overpowering.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brings a burst of herbal brightness and a fresh green hue.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: Acts as the creamy base for the dressing, keeping it light yet satisfying.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds richness and smoothness to the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Provides tang and balances the creaminess with a touch of acidity.
- 1 teaspoon honey: A natural sweetener that perfectly complements the apple without overwhelming.
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Lends a subtle kick and depth to the dressing’s flavor profile.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors and bring everything together.
How to Make Chicken Apple Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Whisk the Dressing
Begin by combining the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This step is key because the dressing will coat every ingredient, marrying the flavors beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the shredded chicken, coleslaw mix, julienned apple, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped parsley. This combination creates the perfect mix of tender, crunchy, sweet, and savory elements that will shine through once dressed.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything to ensure every bite is coated well. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. Chilling gives the flavors time to blend and the coleslaw a crisp, refreshing finish. Once ready, your Chicken Apple Coleslaw Recipe is all set to enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Apple Coleslaw Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a few extra slivers of apple on top for a gorgeous presentation. For an added crunch, consider toasted sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts. These little touches not only boost the texture but keep every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
This coleslaw shines as a hearty side to grilled meats, sandwiches, or even alongside a bowl of warm soup. It’s refreshing enough to balance richer dishes, making it an excellent partner on picnic menus or casual dinners.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Chicken Apple Coleslaw inside lettuce cups or wrapped in large collard green leaves. It also makes a fabulous sandwich filling or can be plated over toasted rustic bread for a light open-faced lunch. The possibilities to enjoy this versatile recipe are endless.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken Apple Coleslaw Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The apples and dressing may soften slightly over time, so if you prefer extra crunch, consider adding fresh apple slices when serving leftovers.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well. The texture of the apples, coleslaw mix, and dressing can be compromised by freezing and thawing, so it’s recommended to prepare just what you plan to eat within a few days.
Reheating
Because this Chicken Apple Coleslaw Recipe is a no-cook dish served chilled, reheating is not necessary or recommended. If you want a warm chicken salad, simply use freshly cooked chicken warmed separately and toss with cold coleslaw and dressing before serving.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples in this Chicken Apple Coleslaw Recipe?
Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice balance to the creamy dressing, sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp work well too if you prefer a milder sweetness.
Is it okay to substitute mayonnaise for more Greek yogurt?
Yes, you can adjust the ratio to make it lighter by using more Greek yogurt and less mayonnaise, but keep in mind the mayonnaise adds a bit of richness and smoothness that balances the dressing.
Can I prepare this salad without chicken?
Definitely! The coleslaw is delicious on its own as a vegetarian dish or can be enhanced with other protein options like tofu or chickpeas.
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
At least 15 minutes is recommended to let the flavors meld and the coleslaw crisp up, but you can also prepare it several hours in advance for even better flavor development.
What can I add for extra crunch in this recipe?
Additions like chopped walnuts, toasted sunflower seeds, or even sliced almonds not only boost crunch but also introduce a lovely nutty flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Apple Coleslaw Recipe is a fresh, colorful, and easy-to-make salad that never fails to impress. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a light dinner, or a tasty side, it delivers brightness and satisfaction with every bite. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to dish for any season!
Print
Chicken Apple Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Chicken Apple Coleslaw is a refreshing and healthy salad combining tender shredded chicken, crisp coleslaw mix, and sweet-tart apple slices, all tossed in a creamy Greek yogurt dressing with a hint of apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard. Perfect for a light main dish or a hearty side, this no-cook recipe comes together quickly and offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 3 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 1 medium apple, julienned or thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Dressing
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, coleslaw mix, julienned apple, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped parsley. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Dress the salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled as a light main dish or a hearty side.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken as a quick and convenient shortcut for cooked chicken.
- For added crunch, consider adding sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts.
- A tart apple variety such as Granny Smith balances the creaminess of the dressing perfectly.
