Amazing Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled 2 Ways

Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled

Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled has been my go-to for a quick and healthy weeknight meal, especially during the summer months. I remember the first time I tried making this, I was looking for something light that still felt substantial, and this dish delivered! The combination of the crisp, cool slaw with the warm, savory grilled chicken is just heavenly. The tangy dressing on the slaw, with just a hint of sweetness from the honey, perfectly complements the smoky char of the chicken. It’s an easy grilled cabbage carrot slaw that truly sings with fresh flavors. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled

  • It’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it an easy grilled cabbage carrot slaw for busy weeknights.
  • The combination of crisp, fresh vegetables and perfectly grilled chicken is satisfying and delicious.
  • This dish is wonderfully light and healthy, featuring lean protein and plenty of fiber.
  • You get a fantastic contrast of textures and temperatures – cool slaw with warm chicken.
  • It’s a vibrant and colorful meal that looks as good as it tastes.
  • This healthy grilled cabbage carrot slaw is a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
  • The simple dressing ties everything together beautifully, creating a delightful grilled coleslaw with cabbage and carrots experience.

Ingredients for Grilled Cabbage Carrot Slaw with Chicken

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making an amazing grilled cabbage carrot slaw. I love how fresh everything tastes! Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage – This forms the crunchy base of our slaw. Pre-shredded is a great time-saver!
  • 1 cup shredded carrots – Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each) – The lean protein that makes this a complete meal.
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise – Our creamy binder for the dressing.
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice – For a bright, zesty tang that cuts through the richness.
  • 1 tsp honey – Just a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out all the delicious flavors.

Amazing Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled 2 Ways - Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled - main visual representation

How to Make Grilled Cabbage Carrot Slaw

This recipe is so straightforward, you’ll be making this grilled cabbage carrot slaw all summer long. It’s all about simple steps that lead to big flavor. Let’s get started and you’ll see just how easy it is to create this delicious meal!

Preparing the Slaw

First, let’s get that slaw ready so it has time to marinate beautifully. In a generous-sized bowl, combine your 2 cups shredded green cabbage and 1 cup shredded carrots. Now, for the dressing: in a separate small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, and 1 tsp honey. Season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour this tangy dressing over the veggies and toss until everything is nicely coated. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes; you’ll hear the cabbage soften just a bit.

Grilling the Chicken

While the slaw is resting, it’s time to grill the chicken. Get your grill or grill pan nice and hot over medium-high heat. Pat your 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels – this helps get a beautiful sear. Season them generously all over with salt and pepper. Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. You’re looking for that perfect internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, let the chicken rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes before you slice it. For more information on safe internal temperatures for poultry, check out the USDA’s guidelines.

Amazing Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled 2 Ways - Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled - additional detail

Assembling Your Dish

Now for the best part – bringing it all together! Pile a generous mound of that perfectly dressed cabbage carrot slaw onto your plates. Arrange the thinly sliced, juicy grilled chicken right on top of the slaw. It’s that simple to create a gorgeous and satisfying grilled cabbage carrot slaw with chicken. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled

To elevate your cabbage carrot slaw grilled experience from good to absolutely amazing, I’ve picked up a few tricks. These tips guarantee a slaw that’s bursting with flavor and texture, perfectly complementing your grilled chicken.

  • For the crispiest slaw, slice your cabbage and carrots as thinly as possible. A mandoline slicer is your best friend here!
  • Don’t skimp on resting the chicken after grilling; it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring super tender meat.
  • Taste and adjust the dressing before tossing everything together. Sometimes it needs a little more salt, pepper, or lemon juice depending on your ingredients.

What’s the secret to perfect grilled cabbage carrot slaw?

The secret to a truly perfect grilled cabbage carrot slaw lies in the dressing’s balance and allowing the slaw to marinate. A good mix of creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet dressing, paired with letting the vegetables sit for at least 10 minutes, really lets the flavors meld beautifully.

Can I make grilled cabbage carrot slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw dressing and chop your vegetables up to a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Toss them together about 30 minutes to an hour before serving for the best texture, or right before if you prefer it crisper.

How do I avoid common mistakes with grilled cabbage carrot slaw?

A common mistake is not slicing the vegetables thinly enough, leading to a tough slaw. Also, over-dressing can make it soggy. Ensure your chicken is fully rested after grilling for maximum juiciness. Avoid grilling chicken on overly high heat, which can burn the outside before the inside is cooked.

Best Ways to Serve Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled

This vibrant Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled dish is so versatile, it’s perfect for almost any occasion! For a light and satisfying weeknight dinner, serve it as is, letting the juicy chicken and crisp slaw be the stars. It also makes a fantastic side dish for cookouts or potlucks, offering a refreshing counterpoint to heavier grilled meats like burgers or ribs. You can even pack it up for a healthy and delicious lunch. I love pairing this healthy grilled cabbage carrot slaw with some simple grilled corn on the cob or a baked sweet potato for a complete, wholesome meal that’s bursting with summer flavors.

Nutrition Facts for Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled

This Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled recipe serves two and offers a balanced nutritional profile. Each serving is designed to be both satisfying and healthful, making it a great choice for a light meal or side dish.

  • Calories: 320
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled

Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled leftovers. Once the chicken has cooled completely, separate it from the slaw if possible, as the dressing can make the chicken a bit soggy over time. Store the slaw and the grilled chicken in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This dish will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. While this grilled cabbage carrot slaw is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the grilled chicken for up to 3 months, though the slaw is not ideal for freezing due to its fresh, crisp texture. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. You can then serve it with fresh slaw or a new batch. For more tips on food storage, consult FoodSafety.gov.

Variations of Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled You Can Try

This Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled recipe is fantastic as is, but I love experimenting with it! Here are a few ways to switch things up and make it your own. For a delicious vegetarian grilled cabbage carrot slaw, simply omit the chicken and grill some firm tofu or halloumi cheese instead. If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, try tossing in some finely chopped bell peppers or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat. You can also experiment with different dressings; a sesame-ginger vinaigrette works wonderfully for a more Asian-inspired grilled cabbage carrot salad. For a summery twist, add some grilled corn kernels to the slaw for extra sweetness and flavor. If you enjoy fresh salads, you might also like this Mediterranean Chickpea Salad.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled

What is grilled cabbage carrot slaw?

Grilled cabbage carrot slaw is a refreshing dish that combines crisp, shredded cabbage and carrots with a tangy dressing, served alongside juicy grilled chicken. It’s a healthier twist on traditional coleslaw, offering a satisfying meal with a lovely interplay of cool slaw and warm protein.

Why grill cabbage carrot slaw instead of making it raw?

Grilling the cabbage and carrots before making the slaw adds a subtle smoky flavor and a slightly tender texture that raw vegetables don’t have. This method creates a more complex taste profile, making your easy grilled cabbage carrot slaw stand out.

Can I make this grilled cabbage carrot slaw recipe with other proteins?

Absolutely! While chicken is fantastic, this healthy grilled cabbage carrot slaw pairs wonderfully with grilled fish like salmon or firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Even grilled shrimp would be delicious. The key is to pick a protein that complements the fresh, zesty slaw. For other healthy dinner ideas, consider veggie burgers with avocado green harissa.

How do I ensure the slaw stays crunchy?

To maintain that perfect crunch in your grilled cabbage carrot slaw, it’s best to dress the vegetables just before serving or let them marinate for only about 10-15 minutes. Over-marinating can make the vegetables too soft. If making ahead, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

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Amazing Cabbage Carrot Slaw Grilled 2 Ways

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A fresh and crunchy cabbage and carrot slaw served with juicy grilled chicken. This dish is quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 10 mins
  • Total Time: 25 mins
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the slaw: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots and toss well to coat. Let the slaw sit for at least 10 minutes.
  2. Grill the chicken: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
  3. Assemble the dish: Pile the dressed cabbage carrot slaw onto plates or into bowls. Arrange the sliced grilled chicken on top.

Notes

  • For best texture, slice cabbage and carrots thinly.
  • Adjust honey for desired sweetness.
  • Allowing the slaw to sit for 10 minutes helps the flavors blend.
  • For a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise.
  • Add toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch, or a pinch of cayenne for spice.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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Hi! I’m Margaret!

A passionate home cook and food lover who loves nothing more than sharing my favourite recipes with the world.

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