If you’ve ever found yourself craving that iconic tangy and creamy side from your favorite fast food spot, you are going to love making this KFC Coleslaw Recipe right at home. It’s a delightful blend of finely chopped cabbage, shredded carrots, and a perfectly balanced dressing that’s sweet, tangy, and full of that classic creamy texture. This recipe nails the familiarity of that beloved coleslaw, making it a perfect companion to fried chicken or any comfort meal, plus it’s surprisingly easy to throw together with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in the final taste and texture of this coleslaw. From the creamy richness of mayonnaise to the sharp brightness of lemon juice and the subtle sweetness of sugar, the combination creates a perfectly balanced dressing that coats the crunchy vegetables beautifully.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base that holds everything together with that classic richness.
- 1/4 cup buttermilk: Adds a subtle tang and extra creaminess to deepen the flavor.
- 1/4 cup whole milk: Keeps the dressing smooth and easy to mix with the veggies.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Balances out the acidity with a gentle sweetness.
- 1/4 cup lemon juice: Injects a refreshing citrus brightness.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar: Offers that signature slight zing essential to coleslaw.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a very gentle warmth without overpowering.
- 8 cups finely chopped green cabbage (about 1 medium head): The star vegetable, providing crunch and freshness.
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots: Lends color and a touch of natural sweetness to the mix.
- 2 tablespoons minced onion: Infuses a mild, savory depth that rounds out the flavors.
How to Make KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Begin by grabbing a large mixing bowl and whisking together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, whole milk, sugar, lemon juice, white vinegar, salt, and black pepper. This combination will create the luscious dressing that’s sweet, tangy, and creamy all at once. Whisk until it’s completely smooth—this ensures every forkful is consistent in flavor.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables Finely
The key to authentic KFC coleslaw texture is finely chopped cabbage and carrots. Using a sharp knife or a food processor, chop the cabbage into very small pieces, almost like confetti. Do the same with the carrots so they blend seamlessly into the mix, adding gentle pops of color and sweetness.
Step 3: Combine and Coat
Add the finely chopped cabbage, shredded carrots, and minced onion directly into the bowl with your dressing. Use a large spoon to stir everything together thoroughly, making sure every shred is well coated with that creamy dressing. This step is where the magic happens — the crunchy veggies embrace the flavors, setting the stage for what’s to come.
Step 4: Refrigerate and Marinate
Cover the bowl with cling wrap or transfer to a sealed container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This resting period lets the flavors meld beautifully and softens the cabbage to that tender-but-crisp bite that makes this KFC Coleslaw Recipe so addictive.
How to Serve KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Garnishes
A little fresh touch can make serving your coleslaw special. Consider a few extra shreds of freshly grated carrot or a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley to brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise. These simple garnishes add a vibrant finish that makes this humble side look as inviting as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This coleslaw shines alongside crispy fried chicken, grilled meats, or even as a topping for sandwiches and burgers. Its cool, creamy crunch cuts through richer, savory mains wonderfully, making it an essential companion at barbecues, picnics, or cozy family dinners.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the classic bowl. Serve the coleslaw in small mason jars for portable picnic-friendly portions, or line a platter with it as a bed under pulled pork or grilled fish. Using decorative small bowls or ramekins can elevate the presentation effortlessly when entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover KFC Coleslaw Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled tightly covered to maintain its creamy texture and fresh flavor. Before serving again, give it a good stir to redistribute the dressing and juices.
Freezing
Since this coleslaw is made with fresh, crisp vegetables and creamy dressing, freezing is not recommended. Freezing will cause the cabbage to lose its crunch and the dressing to separate, resulting in a less appealing texture.
Reheating
No reheating needed here, which makes this coleslaw an incredibly easy and fast side to enjoy straight from the fridge. Just give it a quick stir and serve chilled for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the KFC Coleslaw Recipe?
Yes! You can swap half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to make the coleslaw lighter while still maintaining creaminess. It offers a tangy twist that complements the dressing beautifully.
How finely should the cabbage be chopped?
The cabbage should be chopped very finely, almost to a confetti-like size, to mimic the authentic texture of KFC coleslaw. This ensures the dressing coats every piece evenly and the coleslaw is easy to eat.
Can I prepare the coleslaw the same day I plan to serve it?
Technically, yes, but the flavor and texture are best if you prepare it at least 4 hours ahead, or ideally overnight. This resting time allows the cabbage to absorb the dressing and become tender yet still crisp.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the mayonnaise with vegan mayo and use a plant-based milk alternative such as almond or soy milk. Adjust seasonings to taste for the best flavor.
Why does the KFC Coleslaw Recipe call for both lemon juice and white vinegar?
Using both lemon juice and white vinegar adds a nuanced acidity that balances the sweetness from the sugar and creaminess from the mayo, creating the signature tangy flavor that makes this coleslaw so addictive.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to whip up this beloved KFC Coleslaw Recipe in your own kitchen. It’s a fantastic way to bring a little nostalgia and a lot of flavor to your table with ingredients that are easy to find and simple to use. Trust me, once you try this, it will become your go-to creamy side dish for fried chicken nights and beyond!
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KFC Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes plus chilling time (at least 4 hours)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic KFC Coleslaw Recipe replicates the creamy, tangy, and sweet coleslaw served at KFC. Using finely chopped cabbage and carrots tossed in a luscious dressing made with mayonnaise, buttermilk, lemon juice, and a hint of sugar and vinegar, this side dish is perfect for complementing fried chicken or as a refreshing accompaniment to any meal. The recipe requires no cooking, making it quick and easy to prepare, with chilling time to allow flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
Vegetables
- 8 cups finely chopped green cabbage (about 1 medium head)
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 2 tablespoons minced onion
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, whole milk, granulated sugar, lemon juice, white vinegar, salt, and ground black pepper until completely smooth and well combined.
- Add Vegetables: To the bowl with the dressing, add the finely chopped green cabbage, shredded carrots, and minced onion. Stir thoroughly to coat all the vegetables evenly with the dressing.
- Chill to Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to blend deeply and the cabbage to soften for the perfect texture.
- Serve: Before serving, stir the coleslaw once more to redistribute dressing and flavors evenly. Serve chilled as a tasty side dish.
Notes
- For authentic texture, finely chop the cabbage and carrots using a food processor rather than slicing by hand.
- This coleslaw tastes even better the day after preparation once it has had ample marinating time in the refrigerator.
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to reduce fat while maintaining creaminess.
