If you’ve ever tasted that iconic KFC coleslaw, then you know it’s the perfect blend of crunch and creaminess that just elevates any meal! I mean, who doesn’t love a side dish that’s as refreshing as it is delicious? This classic KFC coleslaw recipe captures that beloved creamy dressing that’s simply irresistible. I remember the first time I made it for a summer barbecue; my friends couldn’t get enough! It pairs beautifully with everything from fried chicken to grilled burgers, making it a must-have at any gathering. Trust me, once you whip this up, you’ll be the one everyone asks for the recipe. Let’s get started on bringing that KFC magic into your kitchen!

Ingredients for KFC Coleslaw Recipe
- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/8 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
How to Prepare KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Getting this KFC coleslaw recipe just right is a breeze, and trust me, the results will have everyone raving! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have that creamy goodness ready to chill in no time. Let’s dive in!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by shredding the cabbage into thin strips. You want it nice and crunchy, so don’t rush this step!
- Next, grab those large carrots and grate them. I like to use a box grater for this—it makes quick work of it!
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, milk, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. This creamy dressing is the magic that ties everything together, so make sure it’s well combined.
- Now, in a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots. Give them a good toss to mix them evenly.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the cabbage and carrots. Grab a pair of tongs or a spatula and toss everything together until every bit of cabbage and carrot is coated in that delicious dressing.
- Here comes the hardest part—cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling time helps the flavors meld beautifully and gives you that classic coleslaw taste!
And voilà! You’ve just whipped up a fantastic KFC coleslaw that’s sure to steal the show at any meal. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
- Creamy texture that’s both satisfying and refreshing, making it a standout side dish.
- Versatile enough to pair beautifully with fried chicken, barbecue, and grilled meats.
- Made with simple, fresh ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen!
- Can be prepared ahead of time, letting you enjoy your meal without the stress of last-minute cooking.
- Deliciously sweet and tangy dressing that brings a delightful flavor to every bite.
- Kid-friendly and loved by everyone—this coleslaw is always a crowd-pleaser!
Tips for Success
To make sure your KFC coleslaw recipe turns out absolutely perfect, here are a few tips that I’ve picked up over the years. Trust me, these little tricks can make a big difference!
- Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest cabbage and carrots you can find! The crunchiness of fresh veggies is what makes coleslaw so delightful, so don’t skimp on quality.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, feel free to add a bit more sugar to the dressing. I usually start with the recommended amount and then taste-test it—just a spoonful makes a world of difference!
- Chill Time Matters: Don’t rush the refrigeration! Letting the coleslaw chill for at least 2 hours (or even overnight) allows the flavors to blend beautifully, giving you that classic taste.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to experiment with add-ins like chopped apples, raisins, or even a bit of celery for extra crunch. It’s a fun way to personalize the recipe!
- Dress Right Before Serving: If you’re making this ahead of time, consider mixing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving. This keeps the cabbage crisp and prevents it from wilting.
With these tips, you’re well on your way to creating a coleslaw that’s not just good, but truly unforgettable! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for each serving of this delightful KFC coleslaw recipe. It’s always good to know what you’re enjoying, right?
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 2g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary depending on the exact ingredients you use. With this coleslaw, you’re not just getting a tasty side dish; you’re also adding a bit of crunch and freshness to your meal. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ about KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it a day in advance. The flavors really develop and meld together beautifully when it has some time to chill in the fridge. Just remember to cover it tightly!
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, no worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1/8 cup of milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and voilà! You’ve got yourself a buttermilk alternative.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Sure! While apple cider vinegar gives that classic tang, you can switch it up with white vinegar or even red wine vinegar if that’s what you have. Just keep in mind that it might slightly alter the flavor profile, but it’ll still be delicious!
How long does KFC coleslaw last in the fridge?
If stored properly in an airtight container, your coleslaw should last about 3-5 days in the fridge. However, for the best taste and texture, I recommend enjoying it within the first couple of days.
Can I add other ingredients to this coleslaw recipe?
Definitely! This KFC coleslaw recipe is super versatile. Feel free to throw in some diced apples, raisins, or even a bit of shredded cheese for a twist. Just be cautious not to overpower the classic flavors!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your KFC coleslaw properly is key to keeping it fresh and delicious! Once you’ve made this creamy delight, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This helps to lock in the flavors and maintain that wonderful crunch of the cabbage and carrots.
In the fridge, your coleslaw will stay good for about 3 to 5 days. Just remember that the longer it sits, the softer the veggies will get, so I recommend enjoying it within the first couple of days for the best texture!
Now, about reheating—good news! You don’t need to reheat coleslaw. In fact, it’s meant to be served cold, so just take it out of the fridge, give it a good stir, and it’s ready to go! If it seems a little dry after sitting, feel free to add a splash more of that creamy dressing to revive it.
So, keep it chilled, enjoy it fresh, and let that KFC coleslaw shine at your next meal!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this amazing KFC coleslaw recipe ready to go, let’s talk about the best dishes to serve it with! This coleslaw is such a versatile side dish that it can elevate a variety of meals, making them even more delightful. Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Fried Chicken: You can’t go wrong with classic fried chicken! The crunchy, savory goodness of the chicken complements the creamy coleslaw perfectly.
- Barbecue Ribs: Smoky, tender ribs slathered in barbecue sauce are a match made in heaven with this refreshing coleslaw. The coolness of the coleslaw balances out the richness of the meat.
- Grilled Burgers: Whether you’re flipping beef burgers or veggie patties, a scoop of coleslaw adds a crunchy contrast that takes your burger to the next level.
- Fish Tacos: If you’re in the mood for something lighter, these tasty tacos topped with coleslaw create a delicious flavor explosion—just like at your favorite taco joint!
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Pile high some pulled pork on a bun and top it with coleslaw for that classic Southern twist. It’s a flavor combo you won’t forget!
- Grilled Veggies: For a lighter option, serve coleslaw alongside grilled vegetables or a veggie platter. It adds a creamy element that pairs beautifully with the smoky flavors.
So, whatever you’re whipping up for dinner, don’t forget to make this KFC coleslaw—you’ll find it’s the perfect companion to so many delicious meals! Enjoy the crunch and creaminess with every bite!
For more delicious recipes, check out this classic coleslaw recipe for a different twist!
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KFC Coleslaw Recipe: 7 Secrets for Irresistible Flavor
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic KFC coleslaw recipe with a creamy dressing.
Ingredients
- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/8 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Shred the cabbage and grate the carrots.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sugar, milk, buttermilk, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the cabbage and carrots in a large bowl.
- Add the dressing to the cabbage and carrots.
- Toss until everything is well coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by varying sugar amount.
- Use fresh ingredients for best flavor.
- Can be made a day in advance.
- 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: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: kfc coleslaw recipe, coleslaw, side dish











