Name: Chicken Apple Coleslaw
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 bag coleslaw mix – Crisp and colorful cabbage blend.; 2 large cans chicken breast, drained – Convenient and protein-packed.; 2 large apples, peeled and diced – Adds natural sweetness and crunch.; 1 bottle SkinnyGirl Poppyseed Dressing – Tangy and light dressing for a perfect mix.

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This isn’t your average coleslaw—it’s a refreshing, crunchy, flavor-packed twist that combines tender chicken, crisp apples, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or as a side for your summer BBQs, this recipe is about to become your go-to. Imagine a bite that’s sweet, savory, and just a little tangy, all wrapped in a creamy dressing. Trust me, you’re going to love this one—it’s as delightful to eat as it is to make!

Why You’ll Love Chicken Apple Coleslaw

Versatile
Whether you’re planning a picnic, packing a work lunch, or need a quick side dish, this coleslaw fits the bill. Serve it solo, in a wrap, or alongside your favorite mains.
Budget-Friendly
No fancy ingredients here—just everyday staples that come together to create something extraordinary.
Quick and Easy
This recipe is ready in minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.
Customizable
From adding dried cranberries to swapping the dressing, you can make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing
The perfect balance of flavors makes this a hit with kids, adults, and everyone in between.

Ingredients

Chicken

Cooked and shredded, this adds protein and heartiness to the coleslaw. Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftovers from dinner.

Apples

Crisp and sweet, they bring a refreshing crunch. Opt for Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness.

Coleslaw Mix

A blend of shredded cabbage and carrots saves time and adds texture.

Red Onion

Thinly sliced for a mild, tangy bite that complements the sweetness of the apples.

Dressing

A creamy mix of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey ties everything together beautifully.

Optional Add-Ins

Dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, or sunflower seeds for extra flavor and crunch.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Wash and dice the apples, shred the chicken, and thinly slice the red onion. If using whole cabbage, shred it finely.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, add the coleslaw mix, chicken, apples, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the top.

Mix and Chill

Toss everything gently until well combined. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Serve and Enjoy

Give it a final toss before serving. Garnish with optional add-ins like cranberries or nuts if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 2 cups
Calories per serving: 200

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve Chicken Apple Coleslaw

As a Main: Serve it on its own for a light, refreshing meal.
In a Wrap: Tuck it into a tortilla or pita for a portable lunch option.
As a Side: Pair with grilled meats, burgers, or sandwiches.
With Bread: Serve alongside crusty bread or crackers for scooping.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead: This coleslaw tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge. Just hold off on the nuts or seeds until serving.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Dressing Variations: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter option or add a touch of sriracha for spice.
Add Greens: Toss in some arugula or spinach for extra color and nutrients.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! It’s a convenient and flavorful option.
Q2: What’s the best apple variety for this recipe?
Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for a sweeter touch.
Q3: Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a few hours ahead, but add the nuts or seeds just before serving.
Q4: How long does this keep in the fridge?
Up to three days in an airtight container.
Q5: Can I use a different dressing?
Sure! A vinaigrette or even ranch dressing would work well.
Q6: How can I make this dish healthier?
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo, and go light on the honey.
Q7: Can I freeze this coleslaw?
It’s not recommended, as the texture of cabbage and apples changes after freezing.
Q8: Can I add other fruits?
Yes! Grapes or diced pears would make delicious additions.
Q9: Can I make it vegan?
Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use a vegan mayo for the dressing.
Q10: What proteins pair well with this?
Grilled chicken, salmon, or even pulled pork make great additions.

Conclusion

There you have it—Chicken Apple Coleslaw, a refreshing and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s crunchy, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or your next potluck, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out!