Save This Thai Peanut Slaw Chicken Sandwich brings together juicy grilled chicken, zesty Thai-inspired peanut slaw, and a creamy tangy sauce for a meal that bursts with bold flavors and vibrant crunch. Whenever I want something colorful that feels both fresh and satisfying, this is my go-to sandwich to delight any crowd, and it comes together in almost no time.
My family first got hooked on this sandwich on a hot summer night when we craved something that felt like takeout but fresher. Now I whip it up anytime I spot beautiful cabbage or crave peanut sauce.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Juicy and tender when grilled Try to choose evenly sized pieces so they cook at the same rate
- Soy sauce: Salty umami foundation Opt for a naturally brewed variety for deeper flavor
- Lime juice: Adds essential tang and brightness Juicy limes feel heavy for their size and have shiny skins
- Vegetable oil: Keeps chicken moist and grill-ready Neutral options like sunflower or avocado work well
- Garlic powder and ground black pepper: Essential for savory depth Use fresh ground pepper for a brighter bite
- Green and red cabbage: Fresh crunch and color Look for tightly packed heads with glossy leaves
- Carrots: Sweet notes and vibrant orange If possible buy whole and shred for the best texture
- Red bell pepper: Brings juicy crispness Deeply colored unblemished peppers are best
- Fresh cilantro: For herbal brightness Pick bunches with perky leaves and no yellowing
- Green onions: Mild onion punch Fresh stalks feel firm and have crisp green tops
- Creamy peanut butter: Base of the dressing Natural peanut butter stirs in easily
- Rice vinegar: For gentle tang Use unseasoned to control sweetness
- Honey or maple syrup: Gives balance and a touch of sweetness
- Sesame oil and fresh ginger: Toasted aroma and peppery warmth
- Garlic clove: For extra savoriness
- Brioche or sandwich buns: Soft but sturdy and able to soak up flavors
- Mayonnaise or vegan mayo: Adds creamy richness
- Extra cilantro and sliced chilies: For garnish and heat Large bright chili peppers have good flavor
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Combine soy sauce lime juice oil garlic powder and black pepper in a small bowl Whisk until smooth Place chicken breasts in the mixture making sure each piece is coated all over Let the chicken marinate at room temperature while you prepare the other elements This helps the flavors absorb and keeps the meat juicy
- Prepare the Slaw Vegetables:
- Gather your cabbage carrots red bell pepper cilantro and green onions Use a sharp knife or mandoline to finely shred the cabbages and carrots Slice the bell pepper thinly Chop cilantro leaves and slice green onions Scatter everything into a large bowl Toss gently to blend the ingredients but keep still vibrant
- Mix the Peanut Dressing:
- Grab a new bowl and add creamy peanut butter soy sauce rice vinegar lime juice honey sesame oil grated ginger and minced garlic Whisk these together until thick and creamy Slowly add warm water a spoonful at a time stirring between each addition You want the dressing to be smooth and pourable but not watery
- Dress the Slaw:
- Pour all the peanut dressing over your bowl of slaw vegetables Use tongs or clean hands to toss until every shred is well coated The slaw should look glossy with dressing and feel crisp Pop it in the fridge to stay extra cold and crunchy
- Grill the Chicken:
- Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high You want it hot enough to sear the outside without burning Place chicken breasts down and grill five to six minutes per side Flip only once to let good grill marks develop When the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit remove the chicken and let it rest at least five minutes before slicing
- Toast the Buns:
- While chicken rests cut buns in half and spread out on a grill or toaster until they are lightly golden This adds flavor and keeps buns from getting soggy once filled
- Assemble Sandwiches:
- Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun for creaminess if using Layer on sliced grilled chicken topping with a generous mound of peanut slaw Garnish with extra cilantro leaves and a few slices of chili if you like it spicy Place the top bun and press gently to set everything together
- Serve Immediately:
- Present each sandwich while still warm with a side of slaw or crisp salad Enjoy every crunchy tangy and savory bite
Pin it My favorite part is always the peanut slaw I will confess I eat forkfuls right from the bowl before it ever reaches a sandwich More than once making this with my kids has led to an explosion of slaw across the counter from too much tossing but we always laugh about it
Storage Tips
These sandwiches are best eaten fresh but if storing keep the chicken and slaw separate Chill leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container for up to three days Store peanut slaw undressed so it stays crisp then toss with dressing right before serving If the buns are fresh freeze extras so you can quickly assemble sandwiches in the future
Ingredient Substitutions
For a vegetarian version swap the chicken for grilled tofu or tempeh Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter in place of peanut butter for nut allergies You can even use shredded rotisserie chicken to save time Fresh herbs like Thai basil or mint also work beautifully in the slaw if you have them
Serving Suggestions
Pair these sandwiches with a refreshing cucumber salad or crunchy sweet potato fries The flavors make an excellent match for pineapple slices or a light cabbage soup At a party I often slice the sandwiches into halves or quarters for easy hand-held bites
Cultural Twist
This sandwich is a playful blend of Thai and American classics inspired by the crunch and fresh flavors of Thai salads and the comfort of a hearty sandwich It brings together two worlds in one delicious bite and is always a hit at potlucks or family picnics
Seasonal Adaptations
Use grilled zucchini or peaches in the summer for extra sweetness Add shredded kale in autumn for earthier flavors Try pickled red onions if you want a brighter bite When cabbage is in season this slaw sings with flavor and costs just pennies to make
Success Stories
One reader swapped out chicken for grilled portobello mushrooms and said it became an instant family favorite I have taken these to neighborhood BBQs and there is never a crumb left behind The creamy slaw is always the first thing people ask for the recipe for
Freezer Meal Conversion
If you want an easy freezer meal simply grill extra chicken wrap tightly and freeze It makes speedy lunches or dinners on demand You can also prep the dressing in advance and freeze it in small portions ready to thaw and toss with fresh veggies when you need a quick meal
Pin it When I get all the textures perfectly stacked and drizzle a last spoon of dressing right before serving I know this is going to be a meal that gets devoured
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I make the chicken juicy?
Marinate chicken breasts in soy sauce, lime juice, oil, garlic, and pepper before grilling to lock in moisture and flavor.
- → Can I prepare the slaw in advance?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate the peanut slaw up to several hours ahead; toss well before assembling for best texture.
- → Is there a dairy-free option available?
Use vegan mayonnaise or omit it for a fully dairy-free sandwich. The peanut dressing is naturally dairy-free.
- → What can I use instead of chicken?
Rotisserie chicken or grilled tofu work as alternatives for quicker or vegetarian preparation.
- → How spicy is this sandwich?
Spiciness depends on optional chili or jalapeño slices. Adjust according to personal taste for mild or hot flavors.
- → What sides pair well with this?
Serve with crisp lager, iced Thai tea, or fresh cucumber salad to balance the bold flavors.