Ah, KFC coleslaw! It’s one of those iconic side dishes that brings back memories of family dinners and road trips. I can still picture myself sitting in the car, tearing open a container of that creamy, tangy goodness while the smell of fried chicken wafted through the air. There’s something about the crunch of fresh cabbage and the sweetness of the carrots that just makes it so irresistible! My version of this KFC coleslaw recipe captures that same flavor and texture, and it’s super easy to whip up at home. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! This recipe is a perfect way to bring that classic taste to your own kitchen, whether it’s for a BBQ, a picnic, or a casual family meal. Let’s dive into making this delicious side dish that everyone will love!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing that KFC coleslaw flavor at home! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 small head of green cabbage, shredded
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Using fresh ingredients will really elevate the taste, so don’t skimp on quality! It all comes together beautifully for that creamy, tangy coleslaw experience you know and love.
How to Prepare the KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Preparing this KFC coleslaw recipe is super straightforward, and I promise it’ll be worth every minute! First, you’ll want to grab your sharp knife or a mandoline for shredding the cabbage. Aim for thin strips to get that perfect crunch. If you’re using a whole head of cabbage, about 4-5 cups of shredded cabbage will do. Next, grab those carrots and grate them using a box grater or a food processor. It’s all about getting those lovely, vibrant shreds that will add sweetness to your coleslaw.
Now, in a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all together until smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens! Once your dressing is ready, toss in the shredded cabbage and grated carrots. I like to use my hands here; it’s the best way to ensure everything is coated evenly. Be gentle but thorough! After everything is mixed, cover the bowl and let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Shred the cabbage into thin strips and place in a large mixing bowl.
- Grate the carrots and add them to the bowl with the cabbage.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots.
- Gently toss everything together until well coated, using your hands for the best results.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
And that’s it! You’ll have a creamy, delicious coleslaw that brings that KFC flavor right to your table!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for this delightful KFC coleslaw recipe. Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 150 calories, 10g of fat, 2g of protein, and 15g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Uses fresh ingredients that make all the difference in flavor.
- Creamy, tangy dressing that captures that iconic KFC taste.
- Great as a side dish for BBQs, picnics, or family gatherings.
- Customizable to suit your taste—add more sugar or different veggies!
This KFC coleslaw recipe is a winner in every way, and I can’t wait for you to try it!
Tips for Success
To make sure your KFC coleslaw turns out perfectly, always use the freshest ingredients you can find—this really elevates the dish! If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, don’t hesitate to adjust the sugar to your liking; taste as you go! Also, let the coleslaw chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This resting time is crucial for letting those flavors mingle and develop beautifully. Trust me, it’ll be worth the wait!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to mix up this KFC coleslaw recipe! Try adding some diced bell peppers or red onions for an extra crunch and flavor. You could also throw in some celery for a nice bite! Want a little kick? A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can spice things up. And if you’re a fan of sweetness, toss in some raisins or apples for a delightful twist. The possibilities are endless!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your KFC coleslaw is super simple! Just place any leftovers in an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days, but trust me, it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for that crunchy texture! As for reheating, coleslaw is typically served cold, so I recommend enjoying it straight from the fridge. Just give it a little toss before serving to refresh those flavors!
FAQs about KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Can I make this KFC coleslaw recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours in advance or even the night before allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just make sure to keep it chilled in the refrigerator.
What if I don’t have buttermilk? No worries! You can easily make a substitute by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken, and you’re good to go!
Can I use other types of cabbage? Yes! While green cabbage is traditional, you can use red cabbage for a pop of color, or even add in some kale for a twist!
Is this coleslaw recipe vegan? To make this KFC coleslaw recipe vegan-friendly, swap the mayonnaise and buttermilk for plant-based alternatives. It’ll still be delicious!

KFC Coleslaw Recipe: 5 Steps to Creamy Perfection
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This KFC coleslaw recipe mimics the famous side dish served at KFC.
Ingredients
- 1 small head of green cabbage, shredded
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Shred the cabbage and grate the carrots.
- In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cabbage and carrots to the bowl.
- Toss everything together until well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- Adjust sugar to taste if you prefer a sweeter coleslaw.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: kfc coleslaw recipe