Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw is his take on a fresh, flavorful dish that brings together juicy, tender chicken and a crunchy, tangy coleslaw. Unlike your typical coleslaw which can often feel heavy or overly creamy, Jamie’s version strikes a balance between healthiness and flavor. The coleslaw is light, crisp and filled with fresh vegetables like cabbage, carrots and sometimes a dash of apple while the chicken is marinated and cooked to perfection-usually grilled or roasted. It’s a dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues, lunch boxes or just a quick meal at home. The flavors are vibrant and the texture contrast between the chicken and slaw makes each bite satisfying.
Jamie Oliver Chicken Coleslaw Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw, you’ll need a few essential ingredients:
For The Chicken
- Chicken breast (boneless and skinless). the lean protein base of the dish.
- Olive oil – to marinate and grill the chicken.
- Lemon zest and juice. for freshness and a slight tang.
- Garlic – to season the chicken with a savory depth of flavor.
- Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary). for an aromatic, earthy touch.
- Salt and pepper – to season.
For The Coleslaw
- White cabbage – finely shredded for a crisp base.
- Carrots – grated for a bit of sweetness and color.
- Apple (optional) – thinly sliced or grated for a little extra crunch and a hint of sweetness.
- Red onion – for some sharpness.
- Greek yogurt or mayonnaise. to bind the slaw together (but it’s not a heavy cream base like traditional slaw, so it’s lighter).
- Vinegar – typically white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for acidity.
- Honey – just a touch for balance.
- Salt and pepper – to taste.
You can also mix in a few extras like herbs (parsley, mint) or other vegetables (like bell peppers) depending on your personal taste!
Equipment Needed
You don’t need any fancy kitchen gadgets for this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Grill or frying pan. for cooking the chicken. A grill pan is great if you want those charred lines.
- Mixing bowls – for preparing the marinade for the chicken and mixing the slaw.
- Grater – for shredding the carrots and apple (if you’re using it).
- Sharp knife – for slicing the cabbage, onions and any other vegetables you might add.
- Tongs – for flipping the chicken on the grill or pan.
- Chopping board – to keep things neat and organized.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw
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Marinate the Chicken:
Start by making the marinade for the chicken. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic and fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade, cover and let them sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (but if you’ve got time, a couple of hours is even better).
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Cook the Chicken:
Heat a grill or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F or 75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips or chunks.
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Make the Coleslaw:
While the chicken is cooking, prepare your coleslaw. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, thinly sliced apple (if you’re using it) and red onion.
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Dress the Slaw:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or mayo), vinegar, honey and salt and pepper. Pour this dressing over the vegetables and toss well until everything is evenly coated.
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Assemble the Dish:
Once your chicken is ready, slice it and place it on top of the coleslaw. If you like, add a little extra fresh herb on top or maybe a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of flavor. Serve and enjoy!
What I Learnt
Making Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw really opened my eyes to how simple ingredients, when combined in just the right way, can create a dish that’s both delicious and healthy. The key is in the balance of flavors: the tangy coleslaw dressing pairs beautifully with the zesty, juicy chicken. The texture contrast between the crunchy slaw and the tender chicken is satisfying without feeling too heavy. The freshness of the apple (if you include it) adds an unexpected, sweet crunch that’s really refreshing.
It’s also a great example of how you can easily adapt recipes based on what you have in your fridge. Don’t have Greek yogurt? Use regular yogurt or even a little sour cream. Want a bit more flavor? Add a dash of mustard or hot sauce to the dressing.
Overall, this dish is not just tasty. it’s versatile and can be adjusted to suit your tastes which makes it a winner in my book.
Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw
Jamie Oliver’s chicken coleslaw is a delicious and refreshing dish but like any recipe, it’s always fun to play around with it and make it your own. Here are a few tweaks to elevate the flavor and texture:
- Add some crunch – You can go beyond the traditional cabbage and carrots. Try adding some thinly sliced apple for sweetness or even roasted nuts like almonds or cashews for extra crunch.
- Herbs and spices – Jamie’s version is great but if you’re a fan of bold flavors, experiment with fresh herbs like dill, parsley or cilantro. If you like a little kick, try some crushed chili flakes or smoked paprika in the dressing.
- Dressing variations – Instead of the usual mayo, why not swap it out for a yogurt-based dressing for a lighter version? You could also throw in some mustard, honey or even a splash of vinegar for a tangy twist.
- Add more protein – If you want to make the dish even heartier, toss in a few hard-boiled eggs or maybe even some crispy bacon bits. This will turn your coleslaw into a more substantial meal.
- Make it gluten-free – For a gluten-free version, make sure to check your mayonnaise and dressing ingredients. Most of the time, they’re fine but it’s worth making sure. You can also pair the coleslaw with gluten-free bread or rice crackers to serve it up in style.
Storage Tips For Leftovers
Leftover chicken coleslaw is one of those dishes that keeps surprisingly well but you need to store it properly to maintain its freshness. Here’s how:
- Keep the dressing separate. If possible, store the coleslaw and dressing separately. The cabbage and other vegetables will soak up the dressing and become soggy over time. Keep the dressing in a small airtight container and only mix it in when you’re ready to eat.
- Use airtight containers – After you’ve portioned out the coleslaw and dressing, place them in tightly sealed containers. This will help preserve the flavors and prevent the veggies from wilting too quickly.
- Refrigerate promptly – Always refrigerate your leftovers within two hours of making the dish. Chicken is perishable, so you want to keep everything as fresh as possible. Try to eat the leftovers within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.
- Reviving the leftovers – If your leftover coleslaw becomes a bit soggy, try draining off any excess liquid and mixing in a bit more fresh cabbage or some new dressing to give it a little refresh.
What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw?
This coleslaw is a versatile side dish, so it pairs well with just about anything. Here are some great options to complement it:
- Grilled meats – Coleslaw and barbecue go hand in hand. If you’re grilling chicken, burgers or ribs, this chicken coleslaw will cut through the richness and add a nice refreshing balance.
- Sandwiches and wraps – Use the coleslaw as a topping on sandwiches, wraps or burgers. It adds a crunchy texture and a nice tang that contrasts with savory meats like pulled pork or roasted turkey.
- Salads – If you want to make it a more substantial meal, you can pair it with other salads. A simple green salad with some light vinaigrette or a quinoa salad will work wonders alongside the coleslaw.
- Spicy dishes – If you’re making something spicy, like jerk chicken or curry, the coolness of the coleslaw will provide a much-needed contrast. It tones down the heat and makes the meal feel more balanced.
- On its own – If you want a light, low-carb meal, enjoy the coleslaw on its own, especially when it’s filled with that delicious chicken. It’s filling and satisfying, yet light enough for warmer days.
FAQs
What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw Different From Other Recipes?
His version combines tender chicken with a tangy, creamy dressing and a fresh crunch from veggies, giving it a more balanced and flavorful twist.
Can I Use Grilled Chicken Instead Of Cooked Chicken For Jamie Oliver’s Coleslaw?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the fresh veggies and creamy dressing perfectly.
How Long Can I Store Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw?
You can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh to keep the crunchiness of the slaw.
