This Asian Chicken Slaw with Honey Peanut Dressing is an exciting dish that brings together fresh flavors and vibrant textures. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prep lunch, this recipe is ready in under 20 minutes. It’s not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients, making it a delightful option for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal or simply want something delicious, this slaw is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish can be made in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, it’s a nutritious choice.
- Flavorful Dressing: The honey peanut dressing adds a sweet and savory twist that elevates the slaw.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or as a side for gatherings.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Great for lunches throughout the week—just make it ahead!
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious Asian Chicken Slaw, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Frying Pan
- Mixing Bowl
- Fork
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Frying Pan: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly, ensuring it’s juicy and flavorful.
- Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining all ingredients, allowing you to mix thoroughly without spills.
- Fork: Useful for mixing the dressing ingredients until smooth.
- Knife: Necessary for slicing the red onion and cutting chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- 30 g Smooth Peanut Butter (2 tbsp)
- 20 g Honey (1 tbsp)
- 2 tbsp Soya Sauce
- 3-4 tbsp Water
For the Slaw
- 260 g Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (4-5 thighs)
- 300 g Slaw Mix (3 cups)
- 1/2 Red Onion, thinly sliced
- 160 g Sweetcorn, frozen, tinned or fresh (1 cup)
How to Make Asian Chicken Slaw with Honey Peanut Dressing
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- Add all dressing ingredients to a small bowl.
- Mix with a fork until smooth. If needed, add more water to reach desired consistency.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken thighs for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Alternatively, air-fry at 200℃/390℉ for 12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Step 3: Cut the Chicken
- Once cooked, remove chicken from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Cut into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Prepare Sweetcorn
- If using frozen sweetcorn, place it in a bowl and cover with boiling water for a few minutes until defrosted.
- If using tinned sweetcorn, drain and rinse under cold water.
Step 5: Combine All Ingredients
- In a large bowl, add slaw mix, red onion, sweetcorn, chicken pieces, and dressing.
- Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve immediately as a fresh meal or refrigerate for later enjoyment!
How to Serve Asian Chicken Slaw with Honey Peanut Dressing
This vibrant Asian Chicken Slaw with Honey Peanut Dressing is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this dish that will impress your family and friends.
As a Standalone Meal
- Enjoy it on its own for a healthy lunch or dinner option. The combination of chicken and slaw delivers both protein and fiber.
In Wraps
- Use lettuce leaves or whole-grain tortillas to create wraps. Simply place the slaw mixture inside and roll them up for a fresh, portable meal.
With Rice or Quinoa
- Serve the slaw over a bed of rice or quinoa for added texture and heartiness. This makes an excellent base for the flavors to shine through.
As Part of a Meal Prep
- Portion the slaw into containers for quick grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. It stays fresh in the fridge and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Topped with Extra Peanuts
- Sprinkle additional crushed peanuts on top before serving for an extra crunch. This enhances the dish’s texture and adds more peanut flavor.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish your slaw with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for an aromatic touch. The herbs elevate the dish’s freshness and flavor profile.
How to Perfect Asian Chicken Slaw with Honey Peanut Dressing
To make your Asian Chicken Slaw truly stand out, consider these helpful tips that can enhance flavor and presentation.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables in your slaw mix. This ensures crispness and vibrant colors that make your dish visually appealing.
Adjust Dressing Consistency: If you prefer a thinner dressing, gradually add more water until it reaches your desired consistency. A well-balanced dressing coats the ingredients evenly.
Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to swap chicken thighs for grilled shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. This keeps the recipe versatile.
Make Ahead: Prepare the slaw components in advance but keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. This prevents sogginess while enhancing flavors over time.
Add Crunch: Consider including other crunchy elements like sliced bell peppers or radishes. They add color and texture, making each bite interesting.
Taste Before Serving: Always taste your slaw before serving to adjust seasoning. A pinch of salt or splash of soy sauce can elevate the overall flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Asian Chicken Slaw with Honey Peanut Dressing
Pairing side dishes with your Asian Chicken Slaw can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement its flavors perfectly.
Steamed Edamame: These protein-packed soybeans are perfect for snacking alongside your slaw, adding a satisfying bite.
Cucumber Salad: A crisp cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar brings a refreshing contrast to the richness of the peanut dressing.
Vegetable Spring Rolls: Light and filled with fresh veggies, spring rolls provide another crunchy element that pairs well with your main dish.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comfort and depth, balancing out the coolness of the slaw beautifully.
Fried Rice: Serve as a hearty side; fried rice can absorb flavors from any leftover dressing, making every bite delicious.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled to perfection adds smokiness that complements the sweetness from honey in your dressing.
Thai Mango Salad: Combining sweet mangoes with lime juice creates a zesty side that brightens up your meal.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness harmonizes well with savory dishes, providing warmth and satisfaction on every plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Asian Chicken Slaw with Honey Peanut Dressing can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.
- Incorrect dressing consistency: Ensure you add enough water to the dressing until it reaches a smooth and pourable consistency. If it’s too thick, it won’t coat the slaw well.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cook the chicken thighs just until they are browned and cooked through. Overcooking can make them dry and tough.
- Skipping the slicing: Always slice your red onion and chicken into thin pieces. This enhances flavor distribution and makes each bite more enjoyable.
- Neglecting ingredient freshness: Use fresh slaw mix and sweetcorn for better texture and taste. Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in this dish.
- Not mixing thoroughly: After adding all ingredients to the bowl, mix them well to ensure every part is coated with the dressing. This will enhance the overall flavor of your slaw.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for best freshness.
Freezing Asian Chicken Slaw with Honey Peanut Dressing
- Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Asian Chicken Slaw with Honey Peanut Dressing
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about making Asian Chicken Slaw with Honey Peanut Dressing.
Can I use another protein?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute chicken thighs with tofu, shrimp, or even beef for a different twist on this dish.
What types of slaw mix work best?
Look for a blend that includes cabbage, carrots, and other crunchy vegetables. You can also create your own by shredding fresh veggies.
How can I customize my Asian Chicken Slaw?
Feel free to add ingredients like bell peppers, cilantro, or sesame seeds to enhance flavor and texture!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the slaw and dressing separately ahead of time for meal prep. Combine just before serving for optimal freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Asian Chicken Slaw with Honey Peanut Dressing is not only quick but also versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal-prepping lunches. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or proteins to suit your taste!
Asian Chicken Slaw with Honey Peanut Dressing
Asian Chicken Slaw with Honey Peanut Dressing is a deliciously vibrant dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. In under 20 minutes, you can enjoy a delightful combination of tender chicken, crunchy slaw, and a rich honey peanut dressing that adds a sweet and savory twist. Packed with fresh ingredients and nutrients, this slaw is not only quick to prepare but also a versatile addition to any table—whether served as a main dish or side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 260 g boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 300 g slaw mix
- 1/2 red onion
- 160 g sweetcorn
- 30 g smooth peanut butter
- 20 g honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- Water (as needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing by mixing peanut butter, honey, soy sauce, and water in a bowl until smooth.
- Cook chicken thighs in a frying pan over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side or air-fry at 200℃ (390℉) for 12 minutes.
- Let the chicken cool slightly before cutting it into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare sweetcorn by defrosting frozen corn or draining canned corn.
- In a large bowl, combine slaw mix, sliced red onion, cooked chicken, sweetcorn, and dressing. Mix well until everything is coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later enjoyment.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/4 of recipe (about 250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
