Tropical Chicken Slaw Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tropical Chicken Slaw Salad is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The combination of crisp cabbage, vibrant carrots, and juicy pineapple creates a refreshing base, while the shredded chicken adds a protein-packed element. Topped with crunchy almonds and sesame seeds, it’s a salad that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. The creamy pineapple vinaigrette is the perfect finishing touch, providing a light, tropical flavor that complements the dish without overwhelming it. It’s an easy-to-make, colorful, and nutritious option for a meal or side.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1/2 medium head green cabbage, shredded (about 2 cups)
• 1/2 medium head red cabbage, shredded (about 2 cups)
• 1 large carrot, grated (about 1 cup)
• 2 tablespoons sliced almonds
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 cup canned pineapple chunks
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 1 large chicken breast, shredded

Creamy Pineapple Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 4 teaspoons rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 4 teaspoons pineapple juice
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, grated carrot, sliced almonds, sesame seeds, pineapple chunks, and green onions. Toss everything together gently to mix.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, rice vinegar, honey, pineapple juice, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
3. Pour the creamy pineapple vinaigrette over the slaw mixture and toss again to coat evenly.
4. Add the shredded chicken to the salad and mix until everything is well distributed.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a bit to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes (for cooking the chicken)
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
• Add Nuts: If you like extra crunch, you can include additional nuts like cashews or walnuts.
• Swap Pineapple: For a slightly different flavor, you can substitute the pineapple with mango or papaya.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best when eaten fresh, but it will still taste great the next day.
• Reheating: This salad is served cold, so no reheating is necessary. Just make sure to give it a good toss before serving if it’s been stored.

FAQs

How can I make the chicken for this salad?

You can either grill, bake, or pan-fry the chicken breast before shredding it for the salad. Ensure the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw mixture and vinaigrette separately ahead of time. Just toss everything together and add the shredded chicken right before serving.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce, this salad is gluten-free.

How do I shred the chicken breast?

After cooking the chicken breast, allow it to cool slightly, then use two forks to shred the meat into thin pieces.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple can be used as a substitute for canned. Just be sure to chop it into small pieces.

What other vegetables can I add to this salad?

You can add bell peppers, cucumbers, or even shredded Brussels sprouts for additional crunch and flavor.

How do I make the dressing without Greek yogurt?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute with sour cream, mayonnaise, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt.

Can I add more protein to this salad?

Absolutely! You could add shrimp, tofu, or even beans if you want to make it more filling.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes, this salad is a great option for meal prep. Just store the salad and dressing separately to keep it fresh.

Can I skip the sesame seeds and almonds?

Yes, if you have allergies or prefer to skip them, you can omit them or substitute with other nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds.

Conclusion

This Tropical Chicken Slaw Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines the best of sweet and savory ingredients. The crunchy cabbage and carrots pair wonderfully with juicy pineapple and tender chicken, all brought together by the creamy, tangy vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick meal, a refreshing side, or a BBQ, this salad is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal or just want something light and fresh, this recipe ticks all the boxes!

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