I remember the first time I made chicken coleslaw at home. It was a bright Sunday morning, the smell of fresh vegetables filling the kitchen. I had no plan, just a craving for something crunchy, tangy, and comforting. When I tried Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw, it changed how I thought about simple salads forever. The flavors were bold but balanced. The textures were crunchy, creamy, and satisfying all at once.
This recipe is perfect for:
- Quick weeknight dinners
- Lunchboxes
- Picnic spreads
- A light but filling meal
Jamie Oliver has a gift for turning ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. This coleslaw isn’t just a side. It’s the star of the plate.
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw Recipe
I still remember chopping the vegetables and thinking, “Can a salad really taste this vibrant”? The secret was in combining fresh ingredients with a simple, punchy dressing. The chicken adds protein and substance, while the coleslaw mix keeps it crisp and refreshing.
What makes this recipe stand out:
- Juicy, tender chicken infused with flavor
- Crunchy, vibrant vegetables
- A creamy, tangy dressing that binds everything together
- Easy prep with impressive results
Ingredients Needed
When I first looked at the list, I thought it was simple. But simplicity here is powerful. Each ingredient has a role. Skipping any would change the texture or taste.
For The Coleslaw
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded
- 1 small red cabbage, finely shredded
- 2 carrots, grated
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
For The Dressing
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp natural yogurt
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional extras for more punch:
- A handful of raisins
- Toasted sunflower seeds
- Chopped apples for sweetness
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw
I still remember the rhythm of making this. Grating the carrots, shredding the cabbage, mixing the dressing. It felt almost meditative.
Step by step:
- Cook and shred chicken: Poach, roast, or grill chicken until tender. Let it cool slightly. Shred using two forks.
- Prepare vegetables: Shred cabbage, grate carrots, slice onions. Chop parsley.
- Mix dressing: Combine mayonnaise, yogurt, mustard, honey, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine everything: Toss shredded chicken and vegetables with dressing. Make sure every bite is coated.
- Chill or serve immediately: Let it sit for 15-30 minutes to meld flavors. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
I love understanding why food works. With this coleslaw:
- Cabbage: High in fiber, keeps salad crunchy. Anthocyanins in red cabbage add antioxidants.
- Carrots: Beta-carotene provides color and natural sweetness.
- Yogurt in dressing: Balances acidity and adds creaminess without heaviness.
- Lemon juice: Triggers flavors in cabbage and onion, enhancing the fresh taste.
- Chicken: Provides protein and soaks up the dressing flavor, giving the salad substance.
Each element interacts. The crunch of vegetables, creaminess of dressing, and tenderness of chicken create a perfect texture contrast.
Expert Tips
From my experiments, these small tweaks make a huge difference:
- Use a mix of mayo and yogurt for lighter, tangier dressing
- Slice vegetables thin for easy tossing and better flavor absorption
- Let coleslaw rest in fridge for 20 minutes before serving
- Add dressing gradually to avoid over-coating
- Toast seeds or nuts for extra crunch
Recipe Variations
I love playing with Jamie Oliver’s base recipe. Some favorites:
- Asian twist: Add shredded cabbage, carrot, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil
- Fruity version: Toss in chopped apple, pear, or dried cranberries
- Spicy kick: Mix in chili flakes, Sriracha, or chopped jalapeños
- Avocado creamy: Blend avocado into the dressing for richer creaminess
Every variation is an adventure. You can reinvent it every week and never get bored.
Final Words
The first bite of this chicken coleslaw is always a little magical. It’s fresh, tangy, and comforting at the same time. I love how easy it is to make yet how impressive it feels. Making it becomes more than cooking-it’s creating a dish that lifts a meal.
FAQs
What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw Different From Others?
His recipe uses tender roast chicken, fresh crunchy veggies, and a creamy yet tangy dressing that blends perfectly together.
Can I Use Pre-cooked Chicken For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken to save time. Just shred it and mix it into the coleslaw ingredients.
How Long Can I Store Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw?
It’s best eaten fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to two days. The veggies may lose some crunch over time.