If you’ve ever found yourself craving that creamy, tangy, slightly sweet cabbage salad that completes every fried chicken meal, you’re going to fall for this KFC Coleslaw Recipe. With a perfectly balanced dressing and a vegetable medley that’s crisp yet tender, it’s a spot-on copycat that delivers nostalgia in every bite. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or want a cool, crunchy side with lunch, this homemade favorite gives you all the signature flavors without ever needing to stand in a fast food line.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This KFC Coleslaw Recipe shines because of its handful of familiar, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one has a purpose, from the veggies that provide freshness and crunch to the creamy dressing that brings everything together with just the right zing.
- Finely shredded cabbage (8 cups, green and purple mixed): The heart of the slaw—using both green and purple gives a gorgeous color and classic crunch.
- 1 medium carrot (finely shredded): Adds a pop of color and gentle sweetness that plays beautifully against the tangy dressing.
- 2 tablespoons finely minced onion: Brings a mellow sharpness to boost the complexity without overpowering the other flavors.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: The creamy backbone that gives the dressing its luxurious texture and coats the veggies evenly.
- ¼ cup buttermilk: Lends just the right tang and richness for authenticity—don’t skip this!
- ¼ cup milk: Thins the dressing, making it perfectly pourable and light.
- 2½ tablespoons white vinegar: Brings brightness and the distinctive “zippy” flavor that makes KFC’s version memorable.
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar: Balances the vinegar and adds that signature gentle sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Just enough to enhance all the other flavors and balance the sweet notes.
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: For a subtle warmth and a hint of bite.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a final lift of freshness—don’t be tempted to leave this out!
How to Make KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Start by shredding your cabbage and carrot as finely as you can. A food processor works wonders for this if you have one, but a good sharp knife and a little patience do the trick, too. Combine the cabbage, shredded carrot, and finely minced onion in a large mixing bowl. The finer the shred, the more authentic your KFC Coleslaw Recipe will taste and look, so take your time with this step!
Step 2: Whisk Up the Dressing
In a medium bowl, grab a whisk and combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, milk, white vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Whisk until everything is smooth and fully blended. The dressing should be creamy and just pourable, with all the sugar and salt dissolved—giving you the classic taste of KFC coleslaw in every drop.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Pour the luscious dressing over your cabbage mixture. Using a spatula or big spoon, toss everything together until all the veggies are thoroughly coated. You want every bit of cabbage and carrot to get enough of that creamy dressing so each bite pops with flavor.
Step 4: Chill for Best Flavor
Cover your bowl tightly and refrigerate the KFC Coleslaw Recipe for at least four hours, or even better—overnight. Chilling lets the flavors mingle and meld, and it softens the vegetables just right while keeping some crunch. The waiting is hard, but trust me, it’s the secret to spot-on flavor.
Step 5: Stir and Serve
Just before you’re ready to gather everyone around, give the slaw a gentle stir to wake up the flavors and reincorporate any dressing that’s settled at the bottom. Transfer to your favorite serving bowl and watch it disappear!
How to Serve KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this KFC Coleslaw Recipe is that it looks bright and fresh straight from the bowl, but you can always sprinkle on a bit of extra minced parsley, a few poppy seeds, or even a twist of freshly cracked pepper on top for a little extra visual flair. These garnishes, while optional, make your slaw look even more inviting for guests and family.
Side Dishes
This classic coleslaw pairs beautifully with all your picnic and barbecue favorites. Serve it alongside fried chicken, pulled pork, grilled burgers, or crispy fish sandwiches. It’s the cooling, creamy counterpoint to anything hot and savory, and always delivers a delicious, crowd-pleasing touch.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get creative, scoop your KFC Coleslaw Recipe into mason jars for picnics, stuff it inside tacos or sliders, or even pile it high on a bed of mixed greens for an extra-textural salad. The possibilities are endless, letting you enjoy the tangy crunch however you imagine!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover coleslaw keeps wonderfully when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays delightfully crisp for up to 3 days, making it an ideal make-ahead option for meal prep or busy weeknights. Just give it a stir before serving, as the dressing may settle while it rests.
Freezing
Coleslaw made with mayonnaise–especially the KFC Coleslaw Recipe–does not freeze well, as the dressing will separate and become watery after thawing. For best taste and texture, always prepare fresh and store in the fridge.
Reheating
This dish is meant to be enjoyed cold, so no reheating is necessary. If you find the coleslaw a bit too chilly after coming straight from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving to bring out its best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix instead of shredding cabbage myself?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time or want an extra shortcut, a bagged coleslaw mix is a perfectly fine substitute. Opt for the finest-shredded version you can find to match the texture of the original KFC Coleslaw Recipe.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No problem! You can easily make your own by combining 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with ¼ cup of regular milk. Let it rest for a few minutes, and you’ll have a tangy buttermilk substitute that works perfectly in this recipe.
Can I make the KFC Coleslaw Recipe vegan?
Definitely! Simply swap the mayonnaise for your favorite vegan mayo and use plant-based milk and buttermilk alternatives. The result will still have the same creamy, zippy profile you know and love.
How do I adjust the sweetness or tanginess?
This recipe is easily customizable. If you prefer your slaw more tart, add an extra splash of vinegar or lemon juice. For extra sweetness, sprinkle in a little more sugar. Taste as you go until it’s just right for you!
Why do I need to let the coleslaw chill before serving?
The rest time is crucial for flavor development. Chilling allows the veggies to soften slightly and for the dressing flavors to fully mingle, giving your KFC Coleslaw Recipe that signature taste and irresistible texture reminiscent of the fast-food original.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried making your own KFC Coleslaw Recipe, now is the perfect time to dive in. With just a few fresh ingredients and a little love, you’ll unlock the perfect crunchy, creamy side dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Give it a try and let the homemade magic speak for itself!
Print
KFC Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
This KFC coleslaw recipe is a creamy and flavorful side dish that perfectly complements any meal. With a mix of shredded cabbage, carrot, and a tangy dressing, this coleslaw is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Main Coleslaw Ingredients:
- 8 cups finely shredded cabbage (green and purple mixed)
- 1 medium carrot, finely shredded
- 2 tablespoons finely minced onion
Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup milk
- 2½ tablespoons white vinegar
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Coleslaw: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrot, and minced onion.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, milk, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and stir until well combined.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.
- Serve: Stir gently before serving.
Notes
- Use a food processor to achieve finely shredded cabbage similar to KFC coleslaw.
- Adjust sweetness and vinegar to taste.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *