Bright Tropical Chicken Slaw

Category: Fresh & Healthy Salad Recipes

Combine shredded chicken with red and green cabbage, bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and pineapple chunks. Whisk a dressing of olive oil, pineapple juice, vinegar, Dijon, and honey. Mix it all together, sprinkle with nuts if you'd like, and serve fresh.
Clare Greco
Updated on Thu, 19 Jun 2025 18:05:47 GMT
Bright Tropical Chicken Slaw with a Pineapple Twist Save
Bright Tropical Chicken Slaw with a Pineapple Twist | homebitesbyana.com

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Absolutely! Letting the ingredients sit together for a bit actually boosts the flavor. Make it a day ahead and pop it in the fridge. For best crunch, keep the nuts aside and toss them in just before serving. The cabbage stays crisp, so it’s great for meal prepping.
→ What are good vegetarian swaps for chicken?
You’ve got options! Chickpeas, cubed tofu, or even cooked edamame work great. For an extra protein punch, try tempeh or seitan. To add more flavor to tofu, marinate it with a bit of the dressing before mixing it all together.
→ Is there an easier way to shred the cabbage?
Yes! Grab some pre-shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix from the store. Most come with a mix of red cabbage, green cabbage, and carrots, which work perfectly here. A total time-saver!
→ How can I make this dish feel like more of a meal?
Make it heartier by pairing the slaw with rice, quinoa, or rice noodles. Scoop it into lettuce cups, tortillas, or pile it over mixed greens! Toss in some diced avocado for extra creaminess, or simply double the chicken for a meatier version.
→ What other fruits can I add to the slaw?
Feel free to mix things up! Mango pieces, mandarin wedges, or bits of papaya would be tasty. You can also toss in pomegranate seeds or sliced grapes for a fun burst of sweetness. A sprinkle of shredded coconut could add a whole new tropical vibe!

Chicken Pineapple Salad

A colorful bowlful of shredded chicken, crispy cabbage, and sweet pineapple dressed in a tangy pineapple juice mixture – it’s like sunshine on a plate.

Prep Time
15 min
Cooking Time
~
Total Time
15 min
By: Ana

Category: Salads

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: Fusion with Tropical Flair

Yields: 4 Servings

Dietary Preferences: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Slaw Mix

01 2 cups shredded chicken (grilled or rotisserie is perfect)
02 1 cup shredded red cabbage
03 3 cups green cabbage, shredded
04 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced thin
05 1 cup pineapple chunks (drained if canned, fresh works too)
06 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
07 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (use if you like it)
08 1/4 cup chopped almonds or cashews (optional, for crunch)

→ Pineapple Dressing

09 1/2 cup pineapple juice (choose fresh or canned)
10 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
11 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
12 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
13 1 tablespoon olive oil
14 Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste

Steps

Step 01

Mix pineapple juice, vinegar, honey, olive oil, mustard, salt, and pepper in a small jar or bowl. Stir until smooth, then set aside.

Step 02

In a big bowl, toss together chicken, red and green cabbage, pineapple, bell pepper, onion, and cilantro.

Step 03

Drizzle the dressing over the slaw and mix gently so everything is coated evenly.

Step 04

Sprinkle nuts on top if you like, and serve right away or let it chill for 30 minutes to bring out the flavors.

Notes

  1. For a spicy kick, add sriracha or a dash of chili flakes to the dressing.
  2. Keeps well in the fridge, making it great for prepping meals.
  3. Consider tossing in shredded carrots or mango to up the tropical vibes.

Required Equipment

  • Big mixing bowl
  • Jar or small bowl for dressing
  • Whisk
  • Knife and cutting board

Allergen Information

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
  • May include nuts if you choose cashews or almonds.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes only and don’t replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 285
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Carbs: 23 g
  • Protein: 24 g