If you’ve longed to recreate that creamy, tangy signature slaw at home, look no further: this KFC Coleslaw Recipe captures every bit of the iconic flavor and crunch you remember. Each forkful is packed with finely chopped cabbage and carrots, all swirled in a sweet, tart, and silky dressing that lets the fresh veggies shine. Perfect for backyard barbecues or an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe brings that beloved side dish right to your own table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this KFC Coleslaw Recipe lies in its simplicity: every ingredient is there for a reason, working together to get that spot-on flavor and signature texture. Don’t skip a thing – each one does its part to create that creamy perfection!

Green cabbage (8 cups, finely chopped): The heart and soul of the slaw, bringing a crisp bite and classic color.
Shredded carrot (1/4 cup): For a pop of orange and a hint of sweetness, carrots complement the cabbage effortlessly.
Minced onion (2 tablespoons): This is the secret to just the right amount of savory zip.
Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Don’t substitute; mayo is what makes the dressing luxuriously creamy!
Buttermilk (1/4 cup): The tang is a must for authentic flavor, plus it softens the cabbage and carrot just right.
Whole milk (1/4 cup): Helps the dressing cling to every veggie strand, making each bite luscious.
Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Adds the signature touch of sweetness that balances the tang.
White vinegar (1/4 cup): The fresh punch of acidity is what makes the slaw truly pop.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances every flavor and draws out the juices for a tender crunch.
Ground black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A little warmth in the background for well-rounded flavor.

How to Make KFC Coleslaw Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Start by chopping the green cabbage as finely as you possibly can—think of those tiny, uniform pieces in classic takeout coleslaw. Then toss in the shredded carrot and minced onion to form the vibrant veggie base. The finer you chop, the closer you get to real-deal KFC Coleslaw Recipe results.

Step 2: Whisk Up the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, whole milk, granulated sugar, white vinegar, salt, and pepper. Don’t rush this step—the smoother your dressing, the silkier your slaw will be. The mixture should look glossy, creamy, and irresistible at this stage.

Step 3: Combine and Coat

Pour the freshly mixed dressing all over your waiting vegetables. Grab a spatula or large spoon and toss, toss, toss until every last shred is evenly coated. The cabbage should glisten under a generous, creamy blanket.

Step 4: Chill and Meld

This is the key step for unlocking that familiar KFC Coleslaw Recipe flavor: cover the bowl and refrigerate the slaw for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better. This extra patience lets the flavors mingle and the cabbage absorb all that sweet-tangy dressing magic.

Step 5: Stir and Serve

When you’re ready to serve, give the coleslaw a good stir—sometimes the dressing settles at the bottom. Dish it up cold and enjoy the crunch, creaminess, and nostalgic taste of a true KFC Coleslaw Recipe.

How to Serve KFC Coleslaw Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a touch of freshly cracked black pepper over the top just before serving, or add a small tuft of extra shredded carrot for a colorful finish. If you want to jazz things up, a few minced chives or parsley add a pop of green without overpowering the classic flavor.

Side Dishes

This KFC Coleslaw Recipe plays perfectly with fried chicken, of course, but it’s also delicious tucked beside BBQ ribs, grilled hot dogs, pulled pork sandwiches, or crispy fish. Really, any picnic plate immediately becomes more cheerful with a scoop of this creamy slaw on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Try piling the slaw on top of sliders, stuffing it in wraps, or even serving it in individual mason jars for a summery picnic vibe. Layered in a trifle dish or glass bowl, its vibrant colors shine and make for a beautiful potluck centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover KFC Coleslaw Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you’re prepping ahead for an event, remember that some extra time chilling only improves the texture and brightens the flavor!

Freezing

Coleslaw doesn’t freeze well: the mayo-based dressing tends to separate and the cabbage loses its crunch. For best results, enjoy fresh from the fridge instead of the freezer.

Reheating

This is a “chilled only” kind of dish! No reheating necessary (or recommended). Just give it a good stir and serve cold whenever the craving strikes.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix?

Absolutely! While the flavor is best with freshly chopped cabbage and carrots, a bagged coleslaw mix is a superb shortcut for busy days and still delivers on convenience and taste.

Is there a substitute for buttermilk?

If you’re out of buttermilk, you can use regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes and it’ll give you a similar tang for your KFC Coleslaw Recipe.

How do I keep the coleslaw from getting watery?

Be sure to chop the cabbage finely and give it ample chilling time—this helps it absorb the dressing rather than releasing excess water. Also, serve with a slotted spoon if it looks extra juicy at the bottom.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap in a dairy-free mayo and use your favorite plant-based milk and a splash of lemon juice in place of buttermilk. You’ll still capture the essence of the KFC Coleslaw Recipe.

What makes this taste like the original KFC recipe?

The sweet-tangy blend of mayo, buttermilk, vinegar, and sugar, paired with minutely chopped veggies, really nails that nostalgic restaurant taste. The key is following the proportions and letting it chill so the flavors marry together perfectly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about bringing those classic fast-food flavors home, and this KFC Coleslaw Recipe does just that—easy, nostalgic, and guaranteed to please. Give it a try at your next meal or gathering, and get ready for a chorus of “Where did you get this recipe?” It’ll be our little secret!

KFC Coleslaw Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

Indulge in the creamy and tangy goodness of this KFC coleslaw recipe that’s easy to make at home. Perfect as a side dish for any meal or barbecue.

Ingredients

Scale

Coleslaw:

8 cups finely chopped green cabbage
1/4 cup shredded carrot
2 tablespoons minced onion

Dressing:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup whole milk
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

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Instructions

Cut and Mix Veggies: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cabbage, shredded carrot, and minced onion.
Prepare Dressing: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, milk, sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine Ingredients: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until evenly coated.
Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld. Stir well before serving.