Jamie Oliver Chicken Coleslaw Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

I remember the first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw. It was at a friend’s summer BBQ. The sun was shining, laughter was everywhere, and this coleslaw stole the show. Unlike any boring side dish I’d had before, it was fresh, crunchy, and packed with flavor. That moment made me want to unlock the secrets behind it. What made this chicken coleslaw so irresistible? Over time, I’ve learned it’s all about the balance of textures and the harmony of simple ingredients coming alive. Ready to join me on this tasty journey?

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw Recipe

This isn’t your average coleslaw. Jamie’s version is vibrant and fresh, combining shredded chicken with crisp vegetables and a zingy dressing. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a picnic, or a side that feels like the star of the meal. The recipe is straightforward but delivers big on flavor. It mixes the creaminess of mayo with the sharpness of vinegar and mustard, creating that addictive tang. Plus, the chicken adds protein, making it a satisfying dish on its own.

Ingredients Needed

When I gather ingredients for this coleslaw, I keep it simple but fresh. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cooked chicken breast, shredded (leftover roast chicken works great)
• Fresh white cabbage, shredded finely
• Carrot, grated for a sweet crunch
• Red onion, thinly sliced for a sharp bite
• Fresh parsley, chopped for a herbal lift
• Mayonnaise, the creamy base
• Dijon mustard, for a bit of heat
• White wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, for brightness
• Olive oil, to bring it all together
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

This list is short but powerful. Every ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw

Here’s how I usually put it all together:

1. Prep your chicken and veggies: Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Finely shred the cabbage and grate the carrot. Thinly slice the red onion and chop the parsley.
2. Mix the dressing: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, a splash of vinegar, and a drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
3. Combine everything: Toss the chicken and veggies with the dressing gently but thoroughly. Make sure every bite gets coated.
4. Let it rest: Ideally, chill the coleslaw in the fridge for 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and the cabbage soften just a touch without losing crunch.

The magic is in balancing the creamy, tangy dressing with the fresh, crunchy vegetables and tender chicken.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Here’s where it gets interesting. Why does this coleslaw work so well?

• Cabbage: It’s crunchy and slightly bitter, which cuts through the richness of the mayo. It also contains fiber and antioxidants.
• Carrot: Adds natural sweetness and a different crunch texture. It’s loaded with beta-carotene for a health boost.
• Red onion: Sharpness here wakes up your taste buds and adds a mild heat. Onions also have prebiotic fibers that support digestion.
• Mayonnaise and olive oil: These fats carry flavor and give the coleslaw that satisfying creaminess. Olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Vinegar: The acid balances fat and sweetness, making the whole dish refreshing. Plus, it helps tenderize the cabbage slightly.
• Mustard: Adds complexity with a subtle bite and acts as an emulsifier to keep the dressing smooth.

Each ingredient is carefully chosen to make the salad not just tasty but nutritionally interesting and texturally fun.

Expert Tips

From my kitchen experiments and some Jamie Oliver watching, here’s what I’d recommend:

• Use freshly cooked chicken if possible. Leftovers work but fresh chicken breast or thighs shredded warm give a nicer texture.
• Don’t skip the rest time! Letting the salad chill lets the dressing soak in and flavors marry.
• Shred cabbage finely. Chunky pieces can be too tough and overpower the delicate chicken.
• Add a pinch of sugar or honey if your vinegar feels too sharp. It balances acidity perfectly.
• For a creamier slaw, add a dollop of Greek yogurt with the mayo. It lightens the fat but keeps the creaminess.
• Toast some nuts or seeds on top for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.

Recipe Variations

This coleslaw is versatile. Here are a few ways to switch it up:

• Swap chicken for turkey or ham for a holiday twist.
• Add apples or grapes for sweetness and juiciness.
• Mix in some fresh herbs like dill, chives, or coriander for different herbal notes.
• Use a yogurt-based dressing for a lighter version.
• Add some spice with a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika in the dressing.
• Make it vegan by swapping chicken for chickpeas and mayo for vegan mayo.

These twists keep the dish exciting and adaptable to your pantry or dietary needs.

Final Words

This chicken coleslaw is proof that simple ingredients, handled with care, can create something memorable. It’s fresh, crunchy, creamy, and packed with personality. Whether you’re serving it as a main or a side, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to love. Next time you want something quick, nutritious, and delicious – this is your go-to.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw?

You’ll need chicken, cabbage, carrots, red onion, mayo, mustard, and a few herbs and spices.

Can I Use Cooked Chicken For This Recipe?

Yes! Leftover cooked chicken works great for this coleslaw.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw Spicy?

It’s not overly spicy, but the mustard adds a nice tangy kick.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw Healthier?

You can swap mayo for Greek yogurt and use grilled chicken instead of fried.

Can I Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw In Advance?

Yes! It stays fresh in the fridge for a day or two.

Is There A Vegan Version Of This Recipe?

You can replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegan mayo.

How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw?

It takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on your prep speed.

What Type Of Cabbage Is Best For The Coleslaw?

Green cabbage works best, but you can also use red cabbage for more color.

Can I Add Other Vegetables To This Coleslaw?

Yes, you can add things like bell peppers, celery, or even apples for a twist.

What Should I Serve Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Coleslaw With?

It’s great with BBQ, sandwiches, or as a side dish for grilled meats.