There is something irresistibly delightful about the classic KFC Coleslaw Recipe that makes it a standout side dish for fried chicken lovers everywhere. This creamy, tangy coleslaw strikes the perfect balance between crisp, fresh cabbage and a luscious dressing bursting with bright lemon juice and just the right touch of sweetness. Whether you want to recreate that nostalgic KFC experience at home or simply crave a fresh, flavorful salad to accompany your meal, this coleslaw recipe captures the heart of that signature taste in a simple and satisfying way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This KFC Coleslaw Recipe comes together with simple, everyday ingredients that pack a big flavor punch. Each component plays a role in creating that perfectly creamy texture and refreshing bite, from the crunchy cabbage to the zing of lemon juice.
- Green cabbage: Finely shredded for that classic crunch and vibrant color.
- Shredded carrot: Adds a subtle sweetness and bright orange contrast.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base that brings everything together luxuriously.
- Buttermilk: Gives the dressing a slight tang and smooth texture.
- Apple cider vinegar: Imparts a gentle acidity to balance the creaminess.
- Lemon juice: Bursts with fresh citrus flavor that brightens the slaw.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens just enough to soften the acidity.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors in perfect harmony.
- Black pepper: Adds a mild, warming spice note.
- Celery seed (optional): Offers a subtle earthy undertone that is signature to many coleslaws.
How to Make KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Vegetables
Start with a large mixing bowl and toss in the finely shredded green cabbage alongside the shredded carrot. This blend creates the hearty base of the coleslaw with a beautiful mix of crunch and natural sweetness.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, pepper, and celery seed if you’re using it. Whisk everything thoroughly until you get a smooth, creamy dressing that’s bursting with tangy-sweet goodness.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, making sure every shred is evenly coated in that luscious dressing.
Step 4: Chill and Marinate
Cover your bowl and pop it into the refrigerator for at least two hours. This crucial step allows the dressing to soak into the vegetables fully, melding the flavors and softening the cabbage just slightly for that iconic KFC texture.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once chilled, give the coleslaw a final toss and serve it cold. It’s the perfect refreshing companion to crispy chicken or as a standalone treat.
How to Serve KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up your KFC Coleslaw Recipe by adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives just before serving. This simple garnish adds a pop of color and a mild herbaceous note that complements the tangy dressing beautifully.
Side Dishes
This coleslaw pairs exceptionally well with classic fried chicken, grilled meats, or even as a crunchy topping for pulled pork sandwiches. Its crisp, creamy quality cuts through rich, savory flavors and balances heavier dishes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the coleslaw in individual small bowls or mason jars for a charming picnic or party option. You can also layer it in sandwiches or wraps for a delightful crunch. Another fun idea is to mix it with diced apples or pineapple for a sweet twist that still honors the core KFC Coleslaw Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover KFC Coleslaw Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Give it a good stir before serving to refresh the texture and redistribute the dressing evenly.
Freezing
This coleslaw is best enjoyed fresh; freezing is not recommended as the cabbage will become watery and lose its signature crunch once thawed.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating isn’t necessary—just take it straight from the fridge and enjoy! If you want the flavors to meld even more, letting it sit for a little while before serving helps tremendously.
FAQs
Can I use regular vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar?
While regular white vinegar can work in a pinch, apple cider vinegar adds a milder, fruitier tang that’s closer to the authentic KFC Coleslaw Recipe flavor. It’s worth using if you want a true replication.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can create a buttermilk substitute by mixing one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar into 1/2 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5–10 minutes until it curdles slightly. This will give you the necessary tang and texture.
Is celery seed really necessary?
Celery seed is optional but highly recommended. It adds a subtle depth and that classic coleslaw note that makes this recipe so memorable. If you don’t have it, you can skip, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap out the mayonnaise and buttermilk for plant-based alternatives like vegan mayo and unsweetened almond or soy milk with a splash of vinegar. It won’t taste exactly like KFC’s, but it will still be delicious.
How long should I let the coleslaw chill?
Chilling for at least two hours is key to letting the flavors marry and the cabbage soften just enough. If you can refrigerate it overnight, even better! This step transforms the slaw from good to spectacular.
Final Thoughts
There is pure joy in making this KFC Coleslaw Recipe at home, bringing a beloved classic into your own kitchen with fresh ingredients and a few simple steps. Each bite delivers crunchy freshness and creamy, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with just about any meal. I encourage you to give it a try—once you taste this coleslaw, it just might become your new favorite go-to side dish!
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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 Coleslaw replicates the creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet coleslaw served at the restaurant. Made with finely shredded green cabbage and carrot, it is dressed in a smooth mixture of mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, and seasonings. Refrigerating for a couple of hours allows the flavors to meld perfectly, resulting in a refreshing side dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a complement to fried chicken.
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 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1/8 tsp celery seed (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the finely shredded green cabbage and shredded carrot ensuring an even distribution for a balanced texture.
- Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, pepper, and celery seed if using. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine dressing and vegetables: Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure every shred is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Refrigerate for flavors to meld: Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 2 hours. This chilling step enables the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly, enhancing the overall taste and texture.
- Serve chilled: After refrigeration, give the coleslaw a good stir and serve it chilled as a perfect side dish with grilled meats, fried chicken, or sandwiches.
Notes
- For best results, shred the cabbage and carrot as finely as possible to closely mimic the original KFC texture.
- Celery seed is optional but adds an authentic flavor note typical of classic coleslaw.
- You can adjust the sugar to your preferred level of sweetness.
- This coleslaw is best consumed within 2-3 days if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- If buttermilk is unavailable, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar, left to sit for 5 minutes.
