Hey, friend! Ever take a bite of KFC coleslaw and think, “How do they make this so darn good?” Well, I’ve cracked the code on the KFC coleslaw recipe, and it’s a creamy, crunchy dream that’s way easier than you’d expect. I made this for a barbecue last month, and it disappeared faster than my willpower around fried chicken! Ready to whip up a side dish that’ll have everyone thinking you snagged it straight from the Colonel’s kitchen? Let’s get chopping!
Why This KFC Coleslaw is a Total Winner
So, what makes this coleslaw so special? It’s not just a side—it’s a creamy, tangy masterpiece that nails that classic KFC vibe. I mean, who can resist that perfect crunch? Here’s why this recipe rocks:
- Super Quick: Ready in 15 minutes, perfect for last-minute BBQs or weeknight dinners.
- Spot-On Flavor: Cabbage, carrots, and a sweet-tangy dressing recreate that KFC magic.
- Crowd-Pleaser: From kids to picky eaters, everyone scoops this up like it’s the main event.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better after chilling, so you can prep ahead and chill out.
Ever wonder why KFC’s coleslaw is so addictive? It’s that sweet, creamy dressing paired with crisp veggies that keeps you coming back for more.
The Magic of the Dressing
The star here is the creamy dressing, a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and rich. It’s what makes this coleslaw taste like the real deal. I learned the hard way that too much mayo can overpower it—stick to the recipe for that authentic KFC flavor. It’s like a little bowl of fast-food nostalgia!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Alright, let’s talk ingredients. This recipe uses simple, everyday stuff to mimic that KFC goodness. Here’s what you’ll grab:
- 1 medium head green cabbage, finely shredded (about 8 cups)
- 1 large carrot, grated
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp finely chopped onion
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish 🙂
Substitutions That Work
No buttermilk? Mix ¼ cup milk with 1 tsp lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes. Out of green cabbage? Red cabbage works for a colorful twist, but it’s less traditional. Want it vegan? Use vegan mayo and a plant-based milk with lemon juice. The key is that sweet-tangy dressing, so don’t skimp on the vinegar or sugar!
Step-by-Step: How to Make KFC Coleslaw
Ready to mix? This is so easy, you’ll wonder why you ever bought coleslaw from the deli. Here’s how to nail it:
Step 1: Prep the Veggies
- Shred the cabbage finely using a knife, mandoline, or food processor for that KFC texture.
- Grate the carrot and mix it with the cabbage in a large bowl.
- Toss the veggies to combine evenly.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- Whisk the mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, chopped onion, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until smooth.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the sugar or vinegar for that perfect KFC sweet-tangy balance.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Avoid overmixing to keep the veggies crisp and not soggy.
- Sprinkle with parsley for a fresh, colorful touch, if you’re feeling fancy.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
- Serve chilled with fried chicken, burgers, or as a sandwich topper.
- Enjoy that creamy, crunchy KFC vibe at home!
Pro tip: I once skipped the chilling step, and the flavors were flat. Let it sit in the fridge for that authentic KFC taste—it’s worth the wait!
Tips for Nailing KFC Coleslaw
Wanna make this coleslaw next-level? Here are my go-to tricks:
- Shred Finely: Thinly sliced cabbage mimics KFC’s texture. Too chunky, and it feels like a salad, not coleslaw.
- Drain Excess Liquid: After shredding, let the cabbage sit in a colander for 10 minutes to avoid a watery mess.
- Balance the Dressing: Taste the dressing before mixing to nail that sweet-tangy KFC flavor.
- Chill It: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to blend the flavors. Overnight is even better, IMO.
- Don’t Overmix: Toss lightly to keep the veggies crisp. Overmixing makes it soggy.
Ever wonder why KFC coleslaw stands out? It’s that creamy, sweet-tangy dressing that coats every crisp veggie just right.
Variations to Mix It Up
Bored of the classic? Try these twists to keep things fresh:
Spicy KFC Coleslaw
Add 1 tsp diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a fiery kick.
Sweet Pineapple Coleslaw
Mix in ¼ cup crushed pineapple (drained) for a tropical twist that pairs great with BBQ.
Creamy Dill Coleslaw
Add 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill to the dressing for a refreshing, herby flavor.
Apple KFC Coleslaw
Swap the carrot for 1 grated apple for a sweet, crisp variation that’s still creamy.
Storing and Serving Like a Pro
Got leftovers? You’re in luck! Here’s how to keep that coleslaw fresh:
- Storing: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors get even better!
- Freezing: Freezing isn’t recommended, as it makes the cabbage soggy. Enjoy it fresh or chilled.
- Serving: Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing. Add a fresh sprinkle of parsley for color.
I’ve used leftover coleslaw as a taco topping, and it was a total game-changer. Keep it chilled for that crisp texture!
FAQs About KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Got questions? I’ve got you covered. Here’s what folks usually ask:
Can I use bagged coleslaw mix?
Yup! Pre-shredded coleslaw mix saves time—just use about 8 cups and check for freshness.
Why is my coleslaw watery?
You might’ve skipped draining the cabbage. Let it sit in a colander for 10 minutes after shredding.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Totally! Prep the coleslaw and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. It tastes better after chilling.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your mayonnaise and buttermilk are gluten-free. Always check labels!
What’s a good main dish to pair with this?
This coleslaw pairs perfectly with fried chicken, pulled pork, or grilled fish. I love it with a KFC-style chicken sandwich for the full experience.
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Final Thoughts
So, there you have it—the KFC coleslaw recipe, a creamy, crunchy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s like a little bowl of fast-food magic, ready to elevate your BBQs, weeknight dinners, or even sandwiches. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving that KFC vibe, this coleslaw delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Grab your cabbage, mix up that dressing, and get ready for a side that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. What’s stopping you from making this today? 🙂
