This incredible Chipotle Coleslaw has so much flavor you won't believe your taste buds! With a creamy lime dressing, this chipotle slaw is packed with zingy and refreshing flavor.
Ready in just 10 minutes, it makes the perfect side dish for any cookout or barbecue! Turn a simple coleslaw into a flavorful and mouthwatering addition to any spread.
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🩵 About This Recipe
This amazing chipotle slaw is one of my husband's favorites. This side dish packs so much flavor, you just might completely forget about any other food being served with it!
The bold flavor in and of itself makes this a great side dish recipe, but what seals the deal for me is that it is also super-easy. So I can whip up a whole bunch in record time, which makes the whole family happy!
It's perfect on these Blackened Tilapia Tacos, and if you want another fantastic coleslaw recipe, my Ramen Noodle Coleslaw is another classic!
What readers are saying...
Yum! What a great twist on an old favorite.
- Cristina
🧂 Gather Your Ingredients
- mayo - acts as the base for the creamy chipotle lime dressing.
- lime juice - for some citrus flavor.
- white wine vinegar - adds a nice acidic bite to the dressing.
- salt - season to taste.
- chipotle powder - smoky, zesty, and bold, this is the secret ingredient for making a unique and unforgettable coleslaw dish!
- coleslaw mix - you can also use just shredded cabbage.
🔪 Let's Make Chipotle Coleslaw!
(Or click here to jump right to the recipe card with measurements!)
Combine Dressing Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, add the mayo, lime juice, vinegar, salt, and chipotle powder.
Mix Well
Use a spatula to mix until the dressing comes together.
Toss Slaw
Add the slaw mixture to the dressing and toss until evenly coated. Refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
💡 Expert Tips and Tricks
- Bottled lime juice is good in a pinch, but fresh squeezed will give you the best flavor.
- You can also add some lime zest if you want to double down on the citrus flavor.
- Be sure to check the cabbage or slaw mix for freshness before purchasing and adding it to the dressing. They tend to lose their freshness fairly quickly, so if there's any sliminess or odd smells you might need to buy a new bag!
❔ FAQs
This spice is made from jalapeno peppers that have been smoked, dried, and ground into a fine powder. As a result, it has that nice smoky flavor with a little bit of zesty heat to it!
Cabbage is an ingredient that's actually composed mostly of water. If you've shredded the cabbage yourself, it's likely to have more moisture. Pre-shredded cabbage tends to be a bit drier. If you find your slaw gets soggy anyway, you can salt the cabbage beforehand to draw out the moisture, then rinse, dry, and add to the dressing.
Be sure to use the freshest ingredients you can find, and taste the dressing to adjust the flavors before you add the cabbage!
For another twist on coleslaw, check out a recipe for politiki salad, which is a flavorful Greek version of coleslaw made without mayonnaise.
📝 Substitutions and Variations
- For a slightly sweeter chipotle slaw, add a pinch of sugar or drizzle of honey.
- Add more flavor with fresh chopped cilantro or some diced green onion.
- If you find the chipotle is a little too spicy, use smoked paprika instead.
- Shredded carrots and red cabbage are a great way to add more color and improve the presentation of this dish!
Kristin's Kitchen Tip
Great on its own, this chipotle slaw is also fantastic as a filling for wraps, sandwiches, tacos, and more!
🥡 Storage and Reheating
Transfer leftover chipotle coleslaw to an airtight container and store in the fridge for 2 to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving again.
I don't recommend freezing - the dressing might separate out or get grainy, and cabbage also doesn't do too well when frozen and thawed.
Keep It Handy
Don't have time for this chipotle coleslaw recipe right now? Click on or tap the heart icon on the BOTTOM RIGHT of the screen to save it for later!
🍴 What To Serve With This Dish
This chipotle coleslaw is amazing as a side dish for classic barbecue dishes like burgers, hot dogs, or Pulled Pork Sandwiches. I've also use it as a topping for this Sausage Mozzarella Sandwich, which is a quick and easy dish that's great for a fast weeknight dinner! Other options are fish tacos, grilled meats, or any Tex-Mex or Southwestern inspired meals.
Or serve this coleslaw alongside these tasty smoked country style ribs for a flavor combination that will have your family raving!
😋 More Amazing Side Dish Recipes You'll Love
- Southwest Chicken Salad - Another easy side dish infused with bold southwest flavors.
- Zucchini Fried Rice with Walnuts - A healthy and affordable substitute for takeout.
- Cornbread Casserole - You'll never have leftovers of this amazing casserole inspired by the classic flavors of cornbread!
- Crispy Smashed Potatoes - This incredible recipe from Love and Lemons will be your new favorite way to serve up potatoes.
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Southwest Coleslaw with Chipotle Lime Dressing
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📋 Recipe Card
Chipotle Lime Cole Slaw
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon chipotle powder
- 16 ounces cole slaw (or shredded cabbage) (1 bag)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lime juice, vinegar, salt, and chipotle powder.1 cup mayonnaise, 2 teaspoons lime juice, 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon chipotle powder
- Add the cole slaw and toss until well-coated.16 ounces cole slaw (or shredded cabbage)
- Cover and place in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours so all the flavors can set.
Notes
- You can use bottles lime juice, but freshly squeezed lime juice will give you the best flavor.
- If you're using pre-shredded coleslaw mix, check the bag for freshness before adding to the dressing.
- Add 1 tablespoon of honey or a pinch of sugar if you prefer a slightly sweeter slaw.
- Mix in chopped fresh cilantro or thinly sliced green onions for additional flavor.
- Swap out the chipotle powder for smoked paprika for a milder smoky flavor.
- Add shredded carrots or red cabbage for a more colorful presentation.
- Perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, tacos, pulled pork sandwiches, or burgers.
- Use it as a topping for fish tacos or BBQ sliders.
- Pairs well with Tex-Mex, Southwestern, and BBQ-inspired meals.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Stir before serving again, as some separation may occur.
- Not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the cabbage will change.
Video
Nutrition
Nutritional information is an estimate. The nutritional values for your final dish may vary based on measuring differences and products used.
Update Notes: This post was originally published in June 2016, and was republished with tips, step by step photos, and a recipe change in June 2026.
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Wendy, A Day in the Life on the Farm says
Love this flavor profile
Mrs Shoes says
Oh my but this sounds like a lovely, spicy change up to regular dull coleslaw - I will definitely try your recipe. Then I'll probably be back to pin it!
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Renee @ReneesKitchenAdventures says
I always start with pre-shredded cabbage too! So much easier! I love the flavors of this slaw.
Liz says
What a fabulous cole slaw! I love that you added some chipotle powder---so yummy!
Carlee says
What a fun way to make coleslaw even better! Yum!
Caroline says
I admit I'm not the biggest fan of coleslaw normally as I find there's too much of a mayonnaise taste but the lime and chipotle in here could definitely win me over!
shelby says
Sounds and looks delish! My former MIL made some great coleslaw. My mom made it too but she would put pineapple in it and to me, that just was not good! 😉 I love the flavors in your recipe. Chipotle is one of my favorite spices.
Nicole @ CrazedMom.com says
Ever since I saw this early this morning, I have been thinking about it. I really want to whip up a batch and make some fish tacos to go with it. Yum! Your photos are beautiful!
The Finer Cookie/Kim says
Beautiful recipe. It looks so fresh and crunchy. That's what I love.
Jean | DelightfulRepast.com says
Kristin, isn't a good coleslaw just the perfect dish for summer?! Your photos are setting off a craving. I like to make a huge batch and eat it for breakfast, lunch and dinner!