Broccoli slaw chicken is a fresh and flavorful twist on a classic weeknight dinner. Combining tender chicken with crunchy broccoli slaw creates a dish that’s both satisfying and packed with nutrients. It’s perfect for those who want a quick meal without sacrificing taste or health.
This recipe blends simple ingredients to deliver a balanced dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a light dinner option, broccoli slaw chicken fits the bill. Let’s dive into how we can make this delicious and wholesome meal in no time.
Ingredients
To bring together the perfect Broccoli Slaw Chicken, we carefully select fresh and vibrant ingredients. Each component contributes to the dish’s delightful crunch, tender protein, and tangy flavor, making this a standout meal any day of the week.
For the Broccoli Slaw
- 4 cups shredded broccoli slaw mix (includes broccoli stems, shredded carrots, and red cabbage)
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional for added freshness)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or sunflower seeds (for crunchy texture)
For the Chicken
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Dressing
- 1/3 cup Greek yogurt (for creamy tanginess)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (balances flavors)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adds natural sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (gives a subtle kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
| Ingredient Category | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Broccoli Slaw | Broccoli slaw mix, green onions, cilantro, almonds/sunflower seeds |
| Chicken | Chicken breasts, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper |
| Dressing | Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey/maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper |
Equipment Needed
To make the Broccoli Slaw Chicken perfectly every time, gathering the right equipment is key. Here is what we need to prepare this delicious and nutritious meal efficiently:
- Skillet or Large Nonstick Pan
Essential for cooking the chicken breasts evenly without sticking. A nonstick surface helps keep the chicken tender and juicy.
- Mixing Bowls
Use one medium bowl for tossing the broccoli slaw with the creamy dressing, and another for combining spices if preferred.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
Accuracy in ingredients like olive oil, smoked paprika, and Greek yogurt ensures balanced flavors.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
For trimming chicken and chopping green onions or cilantro if using fresh toppings.
- Cutting Board
A clean, sturdy surface for prepping the vegetables and chicken.
- Whisk or Fork
To blend the creamy dressing ingredients smoothly.
- Tongs or Spatula
Ideal for flipping chicken breasts in the skillet without tearing.
- Serving Spoon
For distributing the broccoli slaw evenly over the cooked chicken.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Skillet / Nonstick Pan | Cooking chicken breasts evenly and with minimal sticking |
| Mixing Bowls | Tossing slaw and mixing dressing |
| Measuring Spoons/Cups | Precise measurement of ingredients |
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Trimming and chopping |
| Cutting Board | Prep surface |
| Whisk or Fork | Blending dressing |
| Tongs or Spatula | Handling chicken safely |
| Serving Spoon | Plating the final dish |
Having these tools ready before we start will streamline the cooking process and help us create the perfect Broccoli Slaw Chicken with minimal hassle. Remember, quality equipment complements fresh ingredients for the best results.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking our Broccoli Slaw Chicken, setting up the ingredients with proper preparation ensures smooth and efficient cooking. Let’s dive into the essential steps for prepping both the broccoli slaw and the chicken.
Preparing the Broccoli Slaw
- Begin by measuring out 4 cups of shredded broccoli slaw mix. Ensure it includes broccoli stems, shredded carrots, and red cabbage for vibrant color and texture.
- Slice 3 green onions thinly on an angle to enhance flavor and appearance.
- Chop ½ cup of fresh cilantro finely to infuse the slaw with a fresh herbal note.
- For crunch, prepare ½ cup of sliced almonds or sunflower seeds based on your preference.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the broccoli slaw mix, green onions, cilantro, and crunchy nuts or seeds.
- Set aside until dressing is ready to toss, so the freshness and crispness remain intact.
“Prepping the slaw fresh keeps its crunch and brightness, essential for the perfect Broccoli Slaw Chicken.”
Preparing the Chicken
- Pat dry 1.5 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts with paper towels to achieve an even sear.
- Trim any excess fat or gristle with a sharp knife.
- In a small bowl, mix the following dry seasonings:
| Seasoning | Amount |
|—————-|—————|
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | - Rub this spice blend evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken to help the seasonings stick and promote browning.
- Have tongs or a spatula ready for transferring chicken to the skillet for cooking.
Tip: “Dry chicken and properly seasoned meat lead to a perfectly crisp golden exterior.”
This Prep Work gets our ingredients ready for cooking and assembling the delicious Broccoli Slaw Chicken with vibrant textures and bold flavors.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these precise steps to cook the broccoli slaw chicken perfectly. We will guide you through Cooking the Chicken and Preparing the Dressing to create a wholesome, flavorful meal.
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to shimmer before adding the chicken.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts (seasoned earlier with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper) into the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on one side without moving it. This forms a golden-brown crust that locks in the juices.
- Flip the chicken using tongs or a spatula and cook for another 5-7 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for fully cooked, juicy chicken.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. This resting step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- Slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces to combine with the broccoli slaw.
| Step | Action | Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat skillet | Add olive oil | 1-2 minutes | Medium-high |
| Cook chicken | First side cooking | 5-7 minutes | 165°F internal |
| Flip chicken | Second side cooking | 5-7 minutes | |
| Rest chicken | After cooking | 5 minutes |
Preparing the Dressing
- In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup Greek yogurt to form the creamy base.
- Add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar for a tangy brightness that complements the broccoli slaw.
- Whisk in 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. This balances the acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for a subtle depth of flavor and slight kick.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to preference.
- Whisk all ingredients vigorously until smooth and fully blended.
- Taste the dressing and tweak sweetness or acidity as needed to perfectly enhance the dish’s vibrant flavors.
Our creamy, tangy dressing ties together the crunchy broccoli slaw and tender chicken creating a perfect harmony of textures and tastes.
Assembling the Broccoli Slaw Chicken
To assemble our Broccoli Slaw Chicken, we start by combining the components to create a dish that bursts with flavor and texture. Follow these steps carefully to achieve the perfect balance of crunchy slaw and tender chicken.
- Prepare the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, add the measured 4 cups of shredded broccoli slaw mix. Toss in the sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and the sliced almonds or sunflower seeds for an extra crunch.
- Add the Creamy Dressing:
Pour the prepared creamy dressing made of Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and Dijon mustard over the broccoli slaw mixture. Use a whisk or fork to gently toss the slaw until every piece is evenly coated with the tangy and smooth dressing.
- Incorporate the Chicken:
Take the rested and sliced chicken, cut into strips or bite-sized pieces, and layer it on top of the dressed slaw. Make sure to distribute the chicken evenly for each bite to have a perfect blend of textures and flavors.
- Final Toss:
Using tongs or a large spoon, gently fold the chicken into the broccoli slaw to ensure a harmonious mix without bruising the delicate slaw. The result should be vibrant and colorful with visible specks of cilantro and nuts adding visual interest.
- Serve or Store:
You can serve this immediately to enjoy the fresh crispness or refrigerate it for up to 2 days for meal prepping. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, intensifying the dish’s freshness and savory appeal.
| Step | Action | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Base Preparation | Combine slaw, onions, cilantro, and nuts | 4 cups broccoli slaw mix |
| Dressing | Pour and toss dressing | Creamy yogurt dressing |
| Add Chicken | Layer sliced chicken | Cooked chicken strips evenly spread |
| Final Toss | Gently fold everything | Avoid bruising broccoli slaw |
| Serve or Store | Immediate serving or refrigerate | Best within 2 days for freshness |
“The magic of our Broccoli Slaw Chicken lies in the delicate balance between the creamy dressing, crunchy slaw, and perfectly cooked chicken.”
This assembly process enhances the dish’s nutritional profile and flavor complexity making it an ideal option for a quick dinner or meal prep that your whole family will enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Broccoli Slaw Chicken experience we can serve it in various delightful ways that complement its fresh flavors and satisfying textures. Here are some of our top serving options to make this dish even more versatile and enjoyable:
- Over a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice
This adds a hearty whole grain base that soaks up the creamy dressing perfectly enhancing the meal’s nutritional value.
- In whole wheat or gluten-free wraps
Wrap the broccoli slaw and sliced chicken in warm tortillas for an easy handheld lunch or dinner packed with crunch and creaminess.
- On a bed of mixed greens
Turning it into a vibrant salad makes for a light low-carb option ideal for warm days or a refreshing meal.
- Alongside roasted sweet potatoes or baby carrots
The natural sweetness from the veggies pairs perfectly with the tangy dressing and smoky paprika chicken for balanced flavors.
- As a topping for baked potatoes
Spoon the broccoli slaw chicken right onto fluffy baked potatoes for a comforting and filling dish.
- With crusty artisan bread or dinner rolls
Serve on the side to scoop up any extra dressing or slaw for added texture and flavor.
Flavor Pairing Table
| Serving Option | Flavor Profile | Texture Contrast | Meal Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quinoa or Brown Rice | Nutty earthy | Soft fluffy grains | Hearty main dish |
| Whole Wheat or GF Wraps | Mild grain flavor | Chewy wrap with crunchy slaw | Portable handheld meal |
| Mixed Greens Salad | Fresh crisp | Crunchy slaw and tender chicken | Light low-carb meal |
| Roasted Sweet Potatoes | Sweet caramelized | Soft with crispy chicken | Comfort side dish |
| Baked Potatoes | Buttery neutral | Soft potato meets creamy slaw | Filling classic meal |
| Artisan Bread or Rolls | Crunchy crust, soft crumb | Rustic texture with tangy slaw | Side accompaniment |
Tips for Serving
- Serve the Broccoli Slaw Chicken while the chicken is still slightly warm to enhance the flavor contrast against the cool creamy slaw.
- Garnish with extra chopped cilantro or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish when serving.
- For meal prep keep the chicken and slaw separate in airtight containers and combine just before eating to maintain the crunch.
- Offer extra dressing on the side for guests who prefer a more indulgent tangy touch.
Using these suggestions we turn our quick wholesome Broccoli Slaw Chicken into a versatile star for family dinners, meal prep, or easy packed lunches—always delivering a fresh vibrant taste experience.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To keep our Broccoli Slaw Chicken fresh and delicious, follow these step-by-step storage and make-ahead tips designed for convenience and flavor preservation.
Storing Cooked Broccoli Slaw Chicken
- Cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
- Place the chicken, slaw, and dressing in separate airtight containers to maintain texture and freshness.
- Store all components in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
| Component | Storage Duration | Storage Method |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked Chicken | Up to 3 days | Airtight container |
| Broccoli Slaw | Up to 2 days | Airtight container |
| Dressing | Up to 5 days | Sealed jar or container |
Freezing Tips
- We recommend freezing the cooked chicken only if you want to extend storage beyond a few days.
- Slice the chicken into portions and freeze in airtight freezer bags for up to 3 months.
- Avoid freezing the slaw or dressing as they lose texture and quality when thawed.
Make-Ahead Meal Prep Strategy
- Prepare the broccoli slaw and dressing up to 1 day in advance. Keep them refrigerated separately.
- Cook and slice the chicken portion in advance and store it chilled or frozen, based on when you plan to serve.
- On serving day, combine the chilled or thawed chicken with the slaw and dressing. Toss gently to keep the slaw crisp.
“For peak freshness and crunch, always add the dressing last and toss just before serving.“
Reheating Guidelines
- Reheat chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until warmed through.
- Avoid microwaving the combined chicken and slaw to prevent wilted vegetables.
- Serve immediately after reheating for optimal flavor and texture.
Summary Checklist for Storage and Make-Ahead
| Step | Action | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Cool | Let cooked chicken cool completely | Prevent sogginess |
| Separate Storage | Store chicken, slaw, dressing separately | Maintains texture and flavor |
| Refrigerate | Chicken (3 days), slaw (2 days), dressing (5 days) | Use airtight containers |
| Freeze | Freeze chicken only, slice portions | Up to 3 months |
| Assemble Before Serving | Combine components last minute | Toss dressing just before eating |
Using these storage and make-ahead tips ensures our Broccoli Slaw Chicken recipe stays fresh, flavorful, and ready to enjoy any day of the week.
Conclusion
Broccoli Slaw Chicken is a versatile dish that fits perfectly into our busy lives without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Its combination of tender chicken and crisp slaw creates a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and enjoy any day of the week.
By following simple steps and using fresh ingredients, we can create a delicious dinner that’s both wholesome and family-friendly. Whether served fresh or prepped ahead, this recipe offers flexibility and taste that keeps us coming back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is broccoli slaw chicken?
Broccoli slaw chicken is a nutritious, flavorful dish combining tender cooked chicken with crunchy broccoli slaw tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s simple, quick, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping.
What ingredients do I need for broccoli slaw chicken?
You’ll need shredded broccoli slaw mix, green onions, cilantro, sliced almonds or sunflower seeds, boneless skinless chicken breasts, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and Dijon mustard.
How do I cook the chicken for broccoli slaw chicken?
Season chicken breasts with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook chicken until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let rest before slicing.
How is the creamy dressing made?
Whisk together Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste for a tangy, creamy dressing that complements the slaw and chicken.
Can I prepare broccoli slaw chicken in advance?
Yes. Store the chicken, slaw, and dressing separately in airtight containers. Combine them just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch. Chicken can be frozen; avoid freezing slaw and dressing.
How should I serve broccoli slaw chicken?
Serve it over quinoa, brown rice, mixed greens, or in wraps. It pairs well with roasted veggies, baked potatoes, or artisan bread. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon juice for added flavor.
How long can I store broccoli slaw chicken?
Keep broccoli slaw and dressing in the fridge for up to 2 days. Cooked chicken can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen up to 3 months. Always cool ingredients before storing.
Is broccoli slaw chicken family-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s a healthy, tasty, and easy recipe that kids and adults alike enjoy. It’s great for quick dinners and meal prep that suits the whole family.