If you’ve ever wished you could recreate that classic creamy crunch of your favorite fast-food spot at home, then this KFC Coleslaw Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It’s that perfect balance of crisp cabbage and carrot, smothered in a tangy, slightly sweet dressing that feels like a hug in every bite. Whether you’re craving a refreshing side to go alongside juicy fried chicken or just want a fresh, flavorful salad any day of the week, this recipe nails it with simple ingredients and an easy technique that anyone can master.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun and ensures your coleslaw tastes just like the one you remember. Each element plays an important role, whether it’s adding creamy texture, a hint of tang, or that subtle sweetness that makes this KFC Coleslaw Recipe unforgettable.
- Green cabbage: The crunchy base that provides volume and freshness with every bite.
- Shredded carrot: Adds a pop of color and natural sweetness to balance the tangy dressing.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy foundation of the dressing, giving it richness and smoothness.
- Buttermilk: Brings a subtle tang and lightness that keeps the dressing from feeling too heavy.
- Apple cider vinegar: Contributes a sharp acidity that brightens the flavors remarkably.
- Lemon juice: Adds a fresh citrus zing that wakes up your palate.
- Granulated sugar: Balances the acidity with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste.
- Celery seed (optional): A subtle, aromatic touch that adds depth to the dressing.
How to Make KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by finely shredding your green cabbage and carrots. The key here is to keep the pieces small and uniform so each bite has a harmonious crunch and every shred gets coated with dressing. Combining them in a large bowl makes it easy to toss later.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, pepper, and if you like, a pinch of celery seed. This mixture is the heart and soul of your coleslaw, combining creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors into one delicious dressing.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Pour the dressing over your shredded cabbage and carrot mix, then toss everything together thoroughly. Make sure every shred is evenly coated with that luscious dressing—this step is what makes all the difference.
Step 4: Chill for Flavor
Cover your bowl and pop it into the fridge for at least two hours. This resting time allows the flavors to mingle and fully develop, turning simple ingredients into that iconic KFC coleslaw taste you’re aiming for.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once chilled, give the salad one final toss and serve it cold. This KFC Coleslaw Recipe is refreshingly crisp, creamy, and irresistible—perfect alongside your favorite fried chicken or even on a picnic spread.
How to Serve KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a little fresh green color and a mild herbal note. A small pinch of paprika can also add a gentle smoky kick and a pop of red that makes this classic side dish look even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This coleslaw is famously paired with crispy fried chicken, but it also shines next to barbecue ribs, grilled hot dogs, or even a hearty sandwich. Its creamy crunch helps balance rich or spicy mains, making your entire meal more vibrant and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this coleslaw in small mason jars at a barbecue or picnic for easy, mess-free portions. You can also spoon it atop pulled pork sliders or wrap it inside tacos for an unexpected but delicious contrast of textures and flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days, but keep in mind that the cabbage may soften slightly over time, while still maintaining good flavor.
Freezing
Freezing coleslaw is not recommended because the cabbage loses its crispness and the dressing may separate once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days at most.
Reheating
KFC Coleslaw Recipe is always best served cold. If you prefer a slightly less chilled salad, just let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving, but never warm it in the microwave as it won’t hold its texture or flavor.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
While you can substitute regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk, using genuine buttermilk adds the characteristic tang and helps thicken the dressing, making it closer to the original KFC Coleslaw Recipe.
Is celery seed necessary for the authentic flavor?
Celery seed is optional but recommended if you want to capture the exact flavor profile of the KFC coleslaw. It adds a subtle aromatic earthiness that really elevates the dressing.
How finely should I shred the cabbage and carrot?
The finer the shred, the better the texture and the more evenly the dressing clings to the vegetables. Aim for thin, uniform pieces to recreate that signature creamy crunch.
Can I make this coleslaw vegan?
Yes! You can swap out mayonnaise for a vegan version and replace buttermilk with a plant-based milk mixed with a little vinegar or lemon juice. The flavor won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be delicious and creamy.
Why should I refrigerate the coleslaw before serving?
Chilling allows the flavors to fully blend and the cabbage to absorb the dressing, resulting in that classic taste and texture that you expect from the KFC Coleslaw Recipe. Patience here really pays off!
Final Thoughts
Making this KFC Coleslaw Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience—it’s quick, straightforward, and yields a salad that tastes surprisingly close to the original version you know and love. Whether you’re serving it up as a picnic side or alongside your favorite chicken dinner, it’s sure to brighten the table and delight your taste buds. Go ahead and give it a try; I promise it will become a cherished staple in your kitchen!
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KFC Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic KFC-style coleslaw is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet side dish made with finely shredded green cabbage and carrot, tossed in a rich dressing of mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and a hint of celery seed. Perfectly chilled and ready in minutes, it’s a refreshing complement to fried chicken and other main dishes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/4 cup shredded carrot
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon celery seed (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: In a large bowl, finely shred the green cabbage and add the shredded carrot. Toss them together to combine evenly.
- Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, granulated sugar, salt, pepper, and celery seed if using. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
- Combine dressing and vegetables: Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill the coleslaw: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 2 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to soften slightly.
- Serve: After chilling, give the coleslaw a quick toss again, serve chilled, and enjoy as a delicious side to your favorite meals.
Notes
- For best results, shred the cabbage finely as in the original KFC coleslaw.
- Allowing the coleslaw to chill for a full 2 hours helps marry the flavors and improves texture.
- Celery seed is optional but adds an authentic touch to the traditional recipe.
- If you prefer a tangier coleslaw, you can add a little more apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to taste.
- The recipe can be made a day ahead and kept covered in the refrigerator for even better flavor.
