Hey there, friend! Let me tell you about my absolute favorite summer meal that brings my family running to the dinner table every single time. This bbq chicken coleslaw combines juicy, smoky chicken with crispy, tangy slaw in a way that'll make you wonder why you haven't been making this your whole life. I stumbled upon this winning combination during a backyard cookout, and honestly, it's become my go-to for everything from quick weeknight dinners to potluck gatherings.
What makes this bbq chicken coleslaw so special is how it brings together bold barbecue flavors with that refreshing crunch of homemade slaw. Whether you're piling it high on a sandwich, tossing it in a bowl, or wrapping it up for lunch, this recipe delivers every time. Trust me, once you try this combination, plain chicken dinners will feel like a thing of the past!
- Background & Why This BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Recipe Wins Every Time
You know what's funny? The magic of bbq chicken coleslaw isn't some fancy culinary secret; it's actually rooted in Southern barbecue tradition where smoky meats and tangy slaws have been best friends for generations. The cool, crunchy coleslaw cuts through the richness of barbecue sauce while adding a refreshing contrast that makes every bite interesting. This isn't just food; it's the kind of meal that gets people talking around the picnic table.
What really sets this bbq chicken coleslaw apart from other recipes you'll find is the balance we're striking here. We're using a homemade creamy slaw with just the right amount of tang to complement (not compete with) your barbecue chicken. Plus, this recipe is incredibly flexible; you can grill your chicken, use a slow cooker, or even work with leftover rotisserie chicken. The result? A dish that's fancy enough for guests but easy enough for a Tuesday night when you're tired and hungry.
Jump to:
Ingredients
For the BBQ Chicken:
- Chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier results)
- Barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- Olive oil
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic powder
- Black pepper
- Salt
For the Coleslaw:
- Cabbage (green, purple, or a mix)
- Shredded carrots
- Mayonnaise
- Apple cider vinegar
- Honey
- Dijon mustard
- Celery seed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Green onions, thinly sliced
- Diced red onion
Substitution Tips: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter version, use honey mustard instead of Dijon, or replace apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar for different tang levels.
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Cook Your Chicken
- Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers slightly.
- Add chicken breasts to the pan and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush generously with barbecue sauce and let it caramelize slightly.
- Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss the shredded chicken with additional barbecue sauce until well coated.
Step 2: Mix Your Coleslaw Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and celery seed until smooth and creamy.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper; taste and adjust sweetness or tanginess to your preference.
- Add shredded cabbage and carrots to the bowl with your dressing.
- Toss everything together until vegetables are evenly coated; the slaw should look creamy but not drowning in dressing.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Place a generous portion of coleslaw on your serving plate, bowl, or bun.
- Top with warm bbq chicken coleslaw mixture, allowing the warmth to slightly soften the slaw.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions if using.
- Serve immediately for the best texture contrast between warm chicken and cool, crispy slaw.
Expert Cooking Tips
Temperature Matters
Getting your chicken to exactly 165°F ensures juicy, safe-to-eat meat without drying it out. Invest in a good meat thermometer; it's a game-changer for this bbq chicken coleslaw and countless other recipes. Overcooked chicken turns rubbery and dry, while undercooked chicken is unsafe.
Let Your Slaw Rest
After mixing your coleslaw, let it sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the cabbage to soften slightly and soak up all those delicious flavors from the dressing. The result is a more cohesive, flavorful slaw that perfectly complements your barbecue chicken.
Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts
While chicken breasts work great, thighs stay juicier and more forgiving if you accidentally overcook them. Dark meat also stands up better to bold barbecue flavors, making them an excellent choice for this dish.
Shred, Don't Chop
For the best texture in your coleslaw, use the large holes on a box grater or a food processor with a shredding disk. This creates long, thin strands that hold dressing better than chopped cabbage.
Make-Ahead Strategy
Prepare your coleslaw dressing and cook your chicken up to 2 days ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then combine just before serving. This keeps your slaw crispy and your chicken flavorful without getting soggy.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Wrap
Grab some whole wheat or flour tortillas and pile them high with your bbq chicken coleslaw for an easy handheld meal. Add sliced avocado, shredded cheese, or pickled jalapeños for extra flavor. These wraps are perfect for lunch boxes or quick dinners on the go.
Slow Cooker Version
Place chicken breasts in your crockpot with barbecue sauce and cook on low for 6-8 hours. The chicken will shred easily with two forks, creating that perfect pulled texture. This method gives you incredibly tender meat while freeing up your time for other meal prep tasks.
Spicy Chipotle Twist
Add 1-2 tablespoons of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to your barbecue sauce for a smoky, spicy kick. Mix a small amount of the adobo sauce into your coleslaw dressing too for heat that runs throughout the entire dish.
Healthy Bowl Version
Skip the bun entirely and create a power bowl with quinoa or brown rice as the base. Layer with roasted sweet potatoes, bbq chicken coleslaw, black beans, corn, and a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce. This transforms your recipe into a complete, nutritious meal.
Vinegar-Based Slaw
For a lighter, tangier option, skip the mayo entirely. Make a vinegar-based coleslaw using apple cider vinegar, a touch of oil, honey, and celery seed. This version cuts through the richness of barbecue even better and works great for outdoor summer events.
Slider Party Style
Use Hawaiian rolls or small burger buns to create bbq chicken coleslaw sliders. These are perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering where finger foods shine. Guests can customize their sliders with extra toppings.
Equipment Recommendations
- Large Cast-Iron Skillet: Perfect for getting a beautiful sear on your chicken while the bbq chicken coleslaw sauce caramelizes beautifully on the surface.
- Meat Thermometer: Essential for perfectly cooked chicken every single time; no more guessing games.
- Box Grater or Food Processor: Makes shredding cabbage and carrots quick and effortless with consistent results.
- Large Mixing Bowl: You need plenty of room to toss that coleslaw without making a mess all over your counter.
- Sharp Chef's Knife: For slicing chicken cleanly and prepping any additional vegetables you want to add.
- Tongs: Makes flipping chicken and tossing slaw so much easier than using forks or spatulas.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Refrigerator Storage
Store your cooked bbq chicken coleslaw components separately for the best results. Keep the chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days and the undressed coleslaw vegetables for up to 5 days. Mix the dressing with slaw only when you're ready to eat; this prevents soggy, wilted cabbage.
Freezing Instructions
The chicken freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Portion it into meal-sized containers with barbecue sauce, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Unfortunately, coleslaw doesn't freeze well due to the high water content in cabbage; always make this fresh.
Meal Prep Strategy
This bbq chicken coleslaw is a meal prepper's dream. Cook a big batch of chicken on Sunday, prepare your slaw vegetables, and store the dressing separately. During the week, you can quickly assemble bowls, wraps, or sandwiches in minutes. Mix and match with different bases like rice, quinoa, or greens to keep things interesting.
Reheating Tips
Warm your chicken gently in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or in a skillet over medium heat. Don't overheat it, or you'll dry out the meat. Always serve with cold, fresh coleslaw for that amazing temperature contrast.
Grandma's Secret That Changed Everything
Want to know the trick that took my bbq chicken coleslaw from good to absolutely unforgettable? Add one tablespoon of pickle juice to your coleslaw dressing. I know it sounds weird, but that briny, tangy punch is exactly what this dish needs to cut through all that rich barbecue sauce. My grandmother swore by this addition, and after one bite, you'll understand why she never made coleslaw without it.
The other secret is letting your chicken rest in extra barbecue sauce after cooking. Don't just brush it on during cooking and call it done. After you shred or slice the chicken, toss it with more sauce and let it sit for 5 minutes. The meat soaks up all those smoky, sweet flavors, making every bite of your bbq chicken coleslaw absolutely crave-worthy.
FAQ
Does coleslaw go with chicken?
Absolutely! Coleslaw and chicken are a match made in heaven. The cool, crunchy texture of coleslaw provides the perfect contrast to warm, tender chicken. When you combine them in this bbq chicken coleslaw, the tangy slaw cuts through the richness of barbecue sauce while adding freshness that makes the whole dish more balanced and interesting.
What's in barbecue slaw?
Barbecue slaw typically contains shredded cabbage and carrots mixed with a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sweetness. Some versions include barbecue sauce right in the slaw itself, while others (like this bbq chicken coleslaw) keep the slaw tangy and pair it with saucy meat for the perfect flavor combination.
What is the difference between coleslaw and slaw?
There's really no difference; "slaw" is just a shortened, casual version of "coleslaw." Both terms refer to that delicious mix of shredded cabbage with dressing. When you're making bbq chicken coleslaw, you can call it either one, though "coleslaw" is the more traditional, complete term.
What goes well with barbecue chicken?
So many things pair beautifully with barbecue chicken! Classic sides include coleslaw (obviously!), cornbread, baked beans, potato salad, mac and cheese, and grilled corn. For a complete meal featuring bbq chicken coleslaw, try adding sweet potato fries or a simple green salad on the side.
Your New Go-To Summer Recipe
There you have it; your new favorite way to enjoy barbecue season! This bbq chicken coleslaw hits every note you want in a summer meal: it's easy to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to serve a dozen different ways. Whether you're feeding hungry kids after soccer practice, hosting a backyard cookout, or just craving something delicious for dinner tonight, this recipe delivers without requiring hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of bbq chicken coleslaw is how it brings people together around the table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Once you master this basic recipe, you'll find yourself coming back to it again and again, tweaking and personalizing it to suit your family's tastes. Before you go, make sure to try our Chicken Avocado Wrap Recipe and Thai Peanut Chicken Wraps Recipe for more creative ways to enjoy chicken wraps that'll keep your meal rotation exciting all season long!
With love from my kitchen to yours,
Kaitlyn Reed
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this bbq chicken coleslaw recipe:
BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Recipe
Equipment
- Large Cast-Iron Skillet For searing and caramelizing the chicken
- Meat thermometer Ensures perfectly cooked, juicy chicken
- Large mixing bowl For tossing coleslaw evenly
- Box Grater or Food Processor For shredding cabbage and carrots
- Sharp Chef’s Knife For slicing chicken and prepping veggies
- Tongs For flipping chicken and mixing slaw
Ingredients
For the BBQ Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for juicier results
- 1 cup barbecue sauce your favorite brand or homemade
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds a smoky depth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
For the Coleslaw
- 4 cups shredded cabbage green, purple, or a mix
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise swap with Greek yogurt for lighter version
- 2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey adds natural sweetness
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or honey mustard
- 0.25 teaspoon celery seed adds classic coleslaw flavor
- salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins
- 0.25 cup chopped cilantro for freshness
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
- 0.25 cup diced red onion adds crunch and tang
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry, season with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; cook chicken 6–7 minutes per side until 165°F.
- Brush with barbecue sauce during the last 2 minutes; let rest 5 minutes, then shred or slice.
- Toss shredded chicken with more barbecue sauce.
- In a bowl, whisk mayo, vinegar, honey, mustard, and celery seed until smooth.
- Add shredded cabbage and carrots; toss to coat evenly.
- Place slaw on plate or bun; top with bbq chicken. Garnish with cilantro and green onions.
- Serve immediately for best contrast of warm chicken and cool slaw.
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