Thai Peanut Chicken Slaw: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Thai Peanut Chicken Slaw: Prepare to be amazed! This isn’t your average, mayo-laden coleslaw. Forget everything you thought you knew about this classic side dish because we’re about to embark on a flavor journey to Southeast Asia. Imagine crisp, vibrant vegetables tossed in a creamy, tangy, and utterly addictive peanut dressing, all topped with tender, juicy chicken. Sounds divine, right?

While coleslaw itself has roots in 18th-century Europe, this vibrant twist draws inspiration from the bold and bright flavors of Thailand. Peanut sauce, a staple in Thai cuisine, adds a rich, nutty depth that perfectly complements the fresh crunch of the slaw. It’s a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more.

What makes this Thai Peanut Chicken Slaw so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy. The creamy peanut dressing clings to every strand of cabbage and carrot, while the chicken provides a satisfying protein boost. It’s incredibly easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights or potlucks. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! The combination of convenience, incredible flavor, and healthy ingredients makes this slaw a winner in my book, and I know it will be in yours too!

Ingredients:

• For the Slaw:
• 1 bag (16 ounces) coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots)
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
• For the Thai Peanut Dressing:
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
• 2-4 tablespoons water (to thin to desired consistency)
• For the Chicken:
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of salt
• Optional Garnishes:
• Sesame seeds
• Extra chopped peanuts
• Lime wedges
• Sriracha sauce

Preparing the Thai Peanut Dressing:

Okay, let’s start with the star of the show – the Thai Peanut Dressing! This dressing is seriously addictive, and you’ll want to put it on everything. Trust me!

1. Combine the ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), lime juice, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Make sure you get all those little clumps of peanut butter worked out. A good whisk is your best friend here.
2. Thin the dressing: Now, the dressing will likely be quite thick at this point. Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking constantly until you reach your desired consistency. I usually end up using about 3 tablespoons, but it depends on the peanut butter you use. You want it to be pourable but still have some body. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Maybe you want a little more lime juice for tang, or a touch more honey for sweetness. It’s all up to you!
3. Let it rest: Ideally, let the dressing sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step isn’t absolutely crucial, but it definitely makes a difference. You can even make the dressing a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good whisk before using it.

Cooking the Chicken:

Next up, let’s get that chicken cooked to perfection. We want it to be juicy and flavorful, ready to soak up all that delicious peanut sauce.

1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely in the pan. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated with the spices.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the chicken to steam instead of brown. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned on all sides. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. Rest the chicken (optional): Once the chicken is cooked, you can let it rest for a few minutes before adding it to the slaw. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender chicken.

Assembling the Thai Peanut Chicken Slaw:

Alright, now for the fun part – putting everything together! This is where all your hard work pays off.

1. Combine the slaw ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, sliced red bell pepper, chopped cilantro, chopped green onions, and chopped roasted peanuts. Give it a good toss to make sure everything is evenly distributed.
2. Add the dressing: Pour the Thai Peanut Dressing over the slaw mixture. Start with about half of the dressing and toss well to coat. Add more dressing as needed, until the slaw is nicely coated but not swimming in dressing. You might not need all of the dressing, depending on your preference.
3. Add the chicken: Gently fold the cooked chicken into the slaw. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the slaw soggy.
4. Garnish and serve: Transfer the Thai Peanut Chicken Slaw to a serving bowl or individual plates. Garnish with sesame seeds, extra chopped peanuts, lime wedges, and a drizzle of sriracha sauce, if desired. Serve immediately or chill for later. This slaw is delicious on its own, or you can serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It’s also great in lettuce wraps or as a topping for rice bowls.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize this recipe to your liking? Here are a few ideas:

• Make it spicier: Add more red pepper flakes to the dressing, or use a spicier chili sauce like sambal oelek.
• Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the slaw, such as shredded carrots, cucumbers, or edamame.
• Use different protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can substitute it with shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas.
• Make it vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing, and make sure your peanut butter is vegan-friendly.
• Add noodles: Toss in some cooked rice noodles or soba noodles for a heartier meal.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the dressing and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the slaw ingredients, dressing, and chicken.

Serving Suggestions:

This Thai Peanut Chicken Slaw is incredibly versatile. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy it:

• As a main course: Serve it as a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
• As a side dish: Pair it with grilled meats, fish, or tofu.
• In lettuce wraps: Spoon the slaw into crisp lettuce leaves for a healthy and delicious appetizer or snack.
• As a topping for rice bowls: Add it to your favorite rice bowl for a burst of flavor and texture.
• In sandwiches or wraps: Use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

Storage Instructions:

Store leftover Thai Peanut Chicken Slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the slaw may become a bit soggy over time, so it’s best to eat it as soon as possible. If you’re making it ahead of time, I recommend storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use.

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving
• Protein: 30-40 grams
• Fat: 25-35 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams

Conclusion:

This Thai Peanut Chicken Slaw isn’t just another salad; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! From the vibrant crunch of the slaw to the savory, nutty goodness of the peanut sauce and the tender chicken, every bite is a delightful experience. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their lunch routine, impress guests at a potluck, or simply enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal.

What makes this slaw so special? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The crisp vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy peanut dressing, while the chicken adds a hearty protein boost. And let’s not forget that incredible peanut sauce! It’s sweet, savory, tangy, and just a little bit spicy – a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions and variations. For a lighter meal, serve it as is, perhaps with a side of grilled pineapple. If you’re looking for something more substantial, try stuffing the slaw into lettuce wraps for a fun and healthy alternative to tacos. Or, for a truly decadent treat, pile it high on toasted brioche buns for a unique and unforgettable sandwich.

And the variations are endless! Swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. Add some chopped mango or avocado for extra creaminess and sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in a handful of chopped peanuts or cashews for an extra crunch. You can even adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less chili garlic sauce to the peanut dressing.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this Thai Peanut Chicken Slaw your own! That’s the beauty of cooking – it’s all about creating something that you love. I’ve provided a solid foundation, but the rest is up to you.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe that I urge you to give it a try. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor – what’s not to love? And once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think?

Please, share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll enjoy. I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration, so don’t hesitate to share your own creative twists on this classic dish.

So, go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. This Thai Peanut Chicken Slaw is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear all about your culinary adventures. Let me know what you think!