Chicken Coleslaw Asian Style

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4

The Chicken Coleslaw Asian Style is a colorful, crisp, and protein-packed dish that blends tender chicken with fresh cabbage, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy sesame-ginger dressing. It’s light, refreshing, and full of bold flavor—perfect as a healthy lunch, dinner, or side dish for any occasion. This recipe captures the balance of sweet, savory, and umami found in Asian-inspired cuisine.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced (grilled or roasted)
  • 3 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1 large carrot, julienned or grated
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 3 green onions, chopped
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro or fresh mint
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds or sliced almonds (for garnish)

For the Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili flakes for heat

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Shred or thinly slice the cooked chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  2. Prepare vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine cabbage, carrot, bell pepper, green onions, and herbs.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, lime juice, garlic, and ginger until smooth. Adjust sweetness or tanginess to taste.
  4. Combine: Add the shredded chicken to the vegetables, pour dressing over the top, and toss until evenly coated.
  5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds or almonds on top. Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes to let the flavors blend.

History and Culinary Influence

Asian-style coleslaw blends traditional Western cabbage salad with East and Southeast Asian flavor profiles. The concept originated from cross-cultural adaptations in the 20th century, when Western chefs incorporated soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil into classic mayonnaise-based slaws for a lighter, fresher taste. The combination of cabbage crunch and savory dressing mirrors Asian salads such as Thai som tam (green papaya salad) and Japanese sesame slaw. This modern fusion dish celebrates global culinary exchange while keeping ingredients simple and healthy. (The Nibble)

Health Benefits

1. High in Protein:
Chicken provides lean protein that supports muscle repair, immune health, and satiety. A 3-ounce serving contains about 26 grams of protein. (Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health)Tag words: chicken coleslaw, Asian coleslaw, sesame ginger salad, healthy chicken recipe, high-protein salad, low-calorie lunch, cabbage salad, crunchy chicken salad, Asian-inspired dish, soy sesame dressing, ginger lime dressing, easy weeknight meal, gluten-free salad, healthy coleslaw recipe, fiber-rich salad, lean protein lunch, meal prep recipe, cold chicken salad, vibrant vegetable dish, fusion salad, light summer meal, post-workout meal, nutritious lunch idea, heart-healthy salad, quick chicken recipe, weight loss friendly recipe, healthy coleslaw bowl, sesame chicken salad, antioxidant-rich meal, cabbage crunch bowl

2. Rich in Vitamins and Fiber:
Cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that strengthen immunity and reduce inflammation.

3. Heart-Healthy Fats:
Sesame oil offers monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health.

4. Gut Health and Digestion:
The combination of fiber from vegetables and probiotics from fermented soy (in tamari or soy sauce) supports a healthy digestive system.

5. Low in Calories, Big on Flavor:
With no heavy mayonnaise, this salad stays light yet satisfying—ideal for weight-conscious eaters.

Calories and Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 280–320 kcal
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Vitamin C: 90% Daily Value
  • Iron: 10% Daily Value

Balanced, colorful, and full of nutrients, this Asian-style chicken coleslaw is a complete meal in one bowl.

Variations

  • Peanut Style: Add 2 tablespoons of natural peanut butter or peanut sauce to the dressing for a Thai-inspired flavor.
  • Mango Twist: Add diced mango or pineapple for sweetness and extra color.
  • Vegan Option: Replace chicken with crispy tofu or edamame beans for a plant-based alternative.
  • Crunchy Upgrade: Top with wonton strips or roasted cashews for texture.
  • Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium soy sauce and skip the added salt.
  • Noodle Bowl Style: Toss with cooked soba noodles or rice noodles to turn it into a filling entrée.Tag words: chicken coleslaw, Asian coleslaw, sesame ginger salad, healthy chicken recipe, high-protein salad, low-calorie lunch, cabbage salad, crunchy chicken salad, Asian-inspired dish, soy sesame dressing, ginger lime dressing, easy weeknight meal, gluten-free salad, healthy coleslaw recipe, fiber-rich salad, lean protein lunch, meal prep recipe, cold chicken salad, vibrant vegetable dish, fusion salad, light summer meal, post-workout meal, nutritious lunch idea, heart-healthy salad, quick chicken recipe, weight loss friendly recipe, healthy coleslaw bowl, sesame chicken salad, antioxidant-rich meal, cabbage crunch bowl

Pro Tips

  • For extra crunch, mix in shredded Napa cabbage instead of regular green cabbage.
  • Toast sesame seeds before garnishing to deepen their nutty flavor.
  • Make the dressing ahead and refrigerate—it stays fresh for up to five days.
  • For best taste, toss the salad just before serving to preserve crunch.
  • If meal prepping, store dressing separately and mix when ready to eat.

Why You’ll Love It

The Chicken Coleslaw Asian Style combines fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and an aromatic sesame-ginger dressing for a vibrant and satisfying dish. It’s light but filling, easy to prepare, and versatile enough to serve at family dinners, picnics, or potlucks. Each bite delivers a refreshing crunch and balanced flavor, proving that healthy eating can be both delicious and exciting.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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