If you have ever wondered how KFC manages to create that perfectly creamy, tangy, and crunchy side that complements their crispy chicken like no other, you are in for a treat with this KFC Coleslaw Recipe. It’s a nostalgic blend of fresh cabbage, shredded carrot, and a dreamy dressing that balances sweet, tart, and savory notes flawlessly. Whether you’re planning a picnic, family dinner, or just craving that classic Southern side, this coleslaw will become your new go-to dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, crafting this delicious KFC Coleslaw Recipe requires just a handful of simple, everyday ingredients. Each item not only adds to the unique flavors but also contributes to that crisp texture and vibrant color that make this coleslaw so irresistible.
- Green cabbage: The crunchy base of the salad, finely shredded for the perfect bite.
- Carrot: Adds a subtle sweetness and bright orange color to the mix.
- Mayonnaise: Provides the creamy foundation for the dressing.
- Buttermilk: Brings a mild tang and thins the dressing to just the right consistency.
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity to balance the creaminess.
- Lemon juice: Enhances freshness and adds a zingy brightness.
- Granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to tie the flavors together perfectly.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors.
- Pepper: Adds a gentle hint of heat and depth.
- Celery seed (optional): A subtle herbal note that rounds out the flavor profile.
How to Make KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by finely shredding the green cabbage—it’s important to get thin strands for that signature coleslaw texture. Toss it together with the shredded carrot in a large bowl to create an even mixture of crunchy, colorful bites.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, pepper, and celery seed if you’re using it. Whisking well helps to blend the flavors and ensures the dressing will coat the vegetables beautifully.
Step 3: Combine and Coat
Pour the creamy dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Using a large spoon or spatula, toss everything together gently but thoroughly so each bite is perfectly coated with that luscious dressing.
Step 4: Chill and Marinate
For the flavors to truly meld and the cabbage to soften just a bit, cover your bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least two hours. This resting time transforms the coleslaw from simple ingredients into a harmonious, crave-worthy dish.
Step 5: Serve and Delight
Once chilled, give the salad a quick toss and serve immediately. Whether it’s alongside your favorite fried chicken or as a refreshing side at your next barbecue, it’s guaranteed to impress.
How to Serve KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance this classic KFC Coleslaw Recipe by sprinkling a few extra celery seeds or freshly chopped parsley on top just before serving. This adds a nice visual contrast and a subtle boost of flavor that complements the creamy dressing.
Side Dishes
This coleslaw pairs beautifully with rich, savory dishes like fried chicken, grilled sandwiches, or even fish tacos. The crisp, tangy salad balances heavier flavors making it a refreshing sidekick on any plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving your KFC Coleslaw Recipe in individual ramekins or mason jars for a charming touch at parties. You can also use it as a crunchy topping for burgers or wraps, adding that special flavor and texture everyone loves.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, during which the flavors continue to develop even further.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and creamy dressing, freezing this KFC Coleslaw Recipe is not recommended. Freezing can lead to a watery texture and spoil the crispness of the cabbage.
Reheating
This coleslaw is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If it’s been refrigerated, simply let it sit for a few minutes before serving to take the chill off; reheating is not necessary and will compromise its fresh crunch.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
You can substitute regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a quick buttermilk alternative. This will give the dressing a similar tang, although traditional buttermilk contributes the best flavor.
Is celery seed necessary for authentic KFC coleslaw?
Celery seed is optional but recommended because it adds a subtle depth and aroma that closely mimics the restaurant version. If you don’t have it, the coleslaw will still be delicious without it.
Can I adjust the sweetness level?
Absolutely! This KFC Coleslaw Recipe balances sweet and tangy, but you can add more or less sugar based on your preference. Start with the measured amount, then tweak it to your taste.
How fine should the cabbage be shredded?
Shredding the cabbage finely is important for the KFC Coleslaw texture. Thin strands allow the dressing to coat the cabbage evenly and make the salad easier to eat—aim for a consistency similar to matchstick cuts.
Can I prepare the coleslaw the night before?
Yes! In fact, making the coleslaw the night before enhances the flavors beautifully. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate, then give it a gentle stir before serving the next day.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the fresh crunch and creamy tang of KFC Coleslaw Recipe to brighten up any meal. Once you try making it at home, you’ll see how effortlessly simple ingredients come together to create something truly special. Give it a go and prepare to impress your family and friends with this classic, crowd-pleasing side dish!
Print
KFC Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, tangy, and sweet coleslaw inspired by the classic KFC recipe, featuring finely shredded green cabbage and carrots coated in a luscious dressing made with mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and subtle seasonings. Perfect as a refreshing side dish for picnics, barbecues, or everyday meals.
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 Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the finely shredded green cabbage and shredded carrot thoroughly to ensure even distribution of vegetables.
- Make Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, granulated sugar, salt, pepper, and optional celery seed until smooth and well blended.
- Combine Dressing and Vegetables: Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture, tossing well to coat all the vegetables evenly with the creamy dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the coleslaw to chill properly before serving.
- Serve: Once chilled, give the coleslaw a final toss and serve it cold as a perfect side dish to your favorite meals.
Notes
- For best flavor and texture, finely shred the cabbage rather than chopping it.
- Refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours; overnight refrigeration enhances flavor even more.
- Celery seed adds authentic KFC coleslaw flavor but can be omitted if unavailable or undesired.
- Adjust sugar and lemon juice to taste for preferred balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Use fresh buttermilk for tang and creaminess; regular milk or yogurt can be substitutes but will alter flavor.
- KFC coleslaw is best served cold as a side dish alongside fried chicken, sandwiches, or barbecue.
