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Curried Chicken Lime Coleslaw

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By Hannah Lowell • March 10th, 2026
Golden curried chicken slices resting over vibrant purple and green lime coleslaw drizzled with cool mint yogurt Save
Golden curried chicken slices resting over vibrant purple and green lime coleslaw drizzled with cool mint yogurt | tastyplatestories.com

This vibrant dish combines tender chicken marinated in aromatic curry spices with a crisp, zesty coleslaw featuring both green and purple cabbage. The cooling mint yogurt sauce balances the warm spices perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Ready in under an hour, this fusion-inspired meal works beautifully for lunch or dinner during warmer months.

The first time I made this curried chicken lime coleslaw, it was actually because I had half a cabbage left from another recipe and a container of Greek yogurt that needed using. My kitchen smelled incredible while the chicken marinated, that warm curry scent filling every corner.

Last summer I served this at a backyard dinner when friends dropped by unexpectedly. Everyone kept asking what was in the marinade, and the plate was completely empty before I even sat down with my own serving.

Ingredients

  • Boneless chicken breasts or thighs: Thighs stay juicier but breasts work beautifully too, just do not overcook them
  • Greek yogurt: Use plain full fat for the marinade and sauce, it tenderizes the protein while adding tang
  • Curry powder: Your favorite brand works here, but add a little extra if you love bold spice
  • Green and purple cabbage: The mix makes the coleslaw gorgeous and purple cabbage brings a slightly sweeter flavor
  • Fresh mint: Do not substitute dried mint here, the fresh leaves brighten everything and cut through the curry
  • Limes: You need both zest and juice for the coleslaw plus more for the chicken marinade

Instructions

Marinate the chicken:
Whisk yogurt, olive oil, curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, garlic, salt and lime juice in a bowl. Coat chicken thoroughly and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes while you prep everything else.
Make the coleslaw:
Combine both cabbages, carrot, red onion and cilantro in a large bowl. Whisk lime zest, lime juice, mayonnaise, yogurt, honey, salt and pepper then toss with vegetables. The slaw gets better as it sits so make this first.
Prepare the mint yogurt:
Mix Greek yogurt with chopped mint, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Refrigerate until you are ready to serve, it needs to stay cold.
Cook the chicken:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium high heat. Cook chicken 6 to 8 minutes per side until deeply browned and cooked through. Let it rest 5 minutes before slicing.
Assemble the bowls:
Pile lime coleslaw onto plates, top with sliced curried chicken and drizzle generously with mint yogurt. Extra cilantro and lime wedges make it pretty.
Spiced grilled chicken served atop crisp tangy cabbage slaw topped with refreshing mint yogurt sauce Save
Spiced grilled chicken served atop crisp tangy cabbage slaw topped with refreshing mint yogurt sauce | tastyplatestories.com

This recipe has become my go to when I want something that feels light but still satisfying. The way the cool yogurt sauce meets the spiced chicken is just perfect.

Make It Yours

I have tried swapping chicken for tofu and chickpeas with great success. The marinade works beautifully on plant proteins too, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Serving Ideas

Sometimes I wrap everything in warm naan or stuff it into pita pockets for a handheld version. It travels well for picnics and actually tastes better when the flavors have time to mingle.

Perfect Pairings

A chilled Riesling cuts through the spices beautifully, or try an Indian pale ale if you prefer beer. The sweetness balances the heat.

  • Warm naan bread for scooping up extra sauce
  • Cucumber slices on the side for another cool element
  • A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
Sliced curried chicken arranged over zesty lime coleslaw with creamy mint yogurt swirled on top Save
Sliced curried chicken arranged over zesty lime coleslaw with creamy mint yogurt swirled on top | tastyplatestories.com

This dish comes together faster than you would think and looks stunning on the table. Hope it becomes a regular in your rotation like it has in mine.

Recipe FAQs

Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes, though letting it rest in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours will deepen the curry flavor throughout the meat.

The coleslaw and mint yogurt sauce can be prepared a day in advance and stored separately. The chicken is best cooked fresh, but you can marinate it overnight for maximum flavor.

Firm tofu or chickpeas work well as vegetarian alternatives. Prepare them using the same curry marinade and adjust cooking times accordingly—about 4-5 minutes per side for tofu.

Yes, making the coleslaw 1-2 hours ahead allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

Absolutely. Reduce or omit the chili powder for a milder dish, or add extra heat with fresh jalapeños in the coleslaw or a pinch of cayenne in the yogurt sauce.

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Golden curried chicken slices resting over vibrant purple and green lime coleslaw drizzled with cool mint yogurt
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Curried Chicken Lime Coleslaw

Tender curried chicken with zesty lime coleslaw and refreshing mint yogurt sauce

Prep 25m
Cook 20m
Total 45m
Servings 4
Difficulty Easy

Ingredients

For the Curried Chicken

  • 1.1 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Juice of 1/2 lime

For the Lime Coleslaw

  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded
  • 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Zest and juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp Greek yogurt
  • 1 tsp honey
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Mint Yogurt

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

Instructions

1
Marinate the Chicken: Whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, garlic, salt, and lime juice in a bowl. Add chicken pieces and coat thoroughly. Cover and marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
2
Prepare the Coleslaw: Combine green and purple cabbage, carrot, red onion, and cilantro in a large mixing bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together lime zest, lime juice, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss well. Refrigerate until serving.
3
Make the Mint Yogurt: Combine Greek yogurt, mint, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix well and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
4
Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely browned. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice or shred as desired.
5
Assemble and Serve: Arrange a generous portion of lime coleslaw on each plate. Top with sliced curried chicken. Drizzle with mint yogurt and garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Additional Information

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Grill pan or skillet
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Grater or food processor
  • Whisk

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories 370
Protein 37g
Carbs 17g
Fat 16g

Allergy Information

  • Contains dairy (Greek yogurt, mayonnaise) and eggs (mayonnaise). Check all packaged ingredients for gluten and allergen cross-contamination. Mayonnaise can contain eggs; substitute with vegan mayo if necessary.
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Hannah Lowell

Passionate home cook sharing easy, family-friendly recipes and practical kitchen tips.