There’s something magical about a summer BBQ, the aroma of grilling meat wafting through the air, and the laughter of friends and family mingling in the sunshine. But just as important as the main course is that perfect side dish, and my KFC Coleslaw is just the ticket. Creamy, tangy, and refreshingly crisp, this recipe can be whipped up in minutes—no more settling for bland takeout sides! Made with simple, fresh ingredients, this homemade version brings the classic KFC coleslaw flavor right to your kitchen. Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser, effortlessly complementing everything from fried chicken to pulled pork sandwiches. Are you ready to elevate your next cookout with this delightful dish? Dive in, and let’s get mixing!

Why is KFC Coleslaw so Irresistible?

Creamy Goodness: This coleslaw features a rich, velvety dressing that balances perfectly with the crispness of the cabbage.

Quick Prep: Just a few minutes of chopping and mixing, and you’re on your way to a delicious side dish!

Versatile Pairing: It complements a variety of meals, from BBQ ribs to grilled burgers, making it a must-have for gatherings.

Fresh Ingredients: With simple, wholesome components, you can enjoy that classic KFC flavor without the fast food guilt.

Crowd-Pleaser: Guaranteed to impress friends and family alike, risking the dish disappearing before you know it!

KFC Coleslaw Ingredients

For the Base
• Cabbage – Finely shred to achieve that classic KFC-style consistency and maintain crisp texture.
• Carrots – Grate to add color and natural sweetness, balancing the tangy dressing.

For the Dressing
• Mayonnaise – Serves as the creamy base; Greek yogurt is a great lighter substitute.
• Buttermilk – Adds tanginess and creaminess; can be replaced with regular milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar if needed.
• White vinegar – Provides a refreshing bite that brightens the overall flavor.
• Sugar – Essential for balancing acidity; adjust to taste for your desired sweetness.
• Salt and Pepper – These seasonings are crucial for enhancing the overall flavors of your KFC coleslaw.

Make this delicious homemade KFC coleslaw a staple at your next gathering, and watch it become an instant favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for KFC COLESLAW

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by finely shredding half a head of cabbage using a sharp knife or a mandoline for consistent texture. Next, grate 1-2 medium-sized carrots until you have a beautiful mix of colors. Combine both vegetables in a large mixing bowl, ensuring they are evenly distributed for that classic KFC coleslaw look.

Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of buttermilk, 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend these until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which will create the signature blend of flavors in your KFC coleslaw.

Step 3: Combine Vegetables and Dressing
Pour the creamy dressing over the shredded cabbage and carrot mixture in your large bowl. Using a spatula, stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece of cabbage and carrot is coated evenly with the dressing. You want that delicious KFC coleslaw uniform look and flavor.

Step 4: Chill the Coleslaw
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the coleslaw to chill for at least 2 hours, although overnight is best for deeper flavor. This step is crucial as it lets the dressing penetrate into the veggies for that irresistible taste.

Step 5: Final Touches Before Serving
Just before serving your homemade KFC coleslaw, remove it from the fridge and give it a good stir to redistribute the dressing. This final mixing ensures every bite is perfectly creamy and tangy, ready to complement your favorite summer meals.

KFC COLESLAW Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this coleslaw recipe and make it your own with these delightful twists!

Colorful Cabbage: Mix green and red cabbage for a vibrant salad bursting with color and flavor.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap mayonnaise for avocado or a vegan mayo to create a creamy texture without dairy.
Crispy Add-Ins: Add toasted sunflower seeds or crunchy ramen noodles for an exciting texture contrast.
Sweet & Tangy Twist: Substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup to bring in a unique, natural sweetness.
Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick, taking your coleslaw to the next level.
Herbaceous Touch: Stir in fresh herbs like cilantro or dill for a refreshing twist that brightens the flavor profile.
Greek Style: Replace some mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed version that maintains creaminess.
Zesty Lemon: A splash of fresh lemon juice can elevate the tangy flavor, making it even more refreshing.

Don’t forget to serve this alongside your favorite grilled meats for a delightful summer meal. If you’re prepping for a gathering, dive into these ideas to keep the excitement alive as you whip up this homemade KFC coleslaw! For more fresh takes, check out my classic coleslaw recipe or explore how to choose the best ingredients for your dishes.

Expert Tips for KFC Coleslaw

• Finely Chop Cabbage: Ensure you finely shred the cabbage for the best texture—this avoids large, unwieldy pieces that can detract from enjoyment.

• Chill for Flavor: Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This crucial step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, elevating your KFC coleslaw experience.

• Avoid Freezing: Do not freeze the coleslaw, as the texture becomes mushy when thawed, losing that delicious crispness you aim for.

• Prep Ahead: For ultimate convenience, prepare the cabbage and carrots a day in advance. Store them separately in your fridge and combine just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.

• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the sugar level in the dressing. Depending on your taste, you can reduce the sugar or substitute with honey for a natural sweetness.

How to Store and Freeze KFC Coleslaw

Fridge: Store your KFC coleslaw in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, allowing flavors to develop and remain fresh.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance; store the ingredients separately and combine just before serving for optimal crunch.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat coleslaw; it’s best served cold. Give it a good stir before serving to revive the dressing and avoid separation.

Freezer: Avoid freezing. The texture of the coleslaw will become mushy when thawed, compromising the delightful crispness of the cabbage and carrots.

Make Ahead Options

These KFC Coleslaw preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can finely shred the cabbage and grate the carrots up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. Combine ingredients for the dressing (mayonnaise, buttermilk, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper) and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days before serving. When it’s time to enjoy your coleslaw, simply mix the veggies with the dressing and let it chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours for the flavors to meld beautifully. This way, you’ll have your homemade KFC coleslaw ready to wow at your next gathering with minimal last-minute effort!

What to Serve with KFC Coleslaw Copycat?

Enhance your dining experience by selectively pairing this delightful coleslaw with mouthwatering mains and other accompaniments to create a memorable meal.

Fried Chicken: A classic duo, the crunchy exterior and juicy meat of fried chicken perfectly balance the creamy coleslaw, creating harmony on your plate.
BBQ Ribs: Smoky and tender ribs paired with the refreshing crunch of KFC coleslaw is an irresistible combination that will tantalize your taste buds.
Pulled Pork Sandwiches: The tangy coleslaw cuts through the richness of pulled pork, providing a zing that elevates every bite of your sandwich.
Grilled Burgers: Adding a scoop of coleslaw on top of your burger creates a delightful layer of flavor that enhances the entire eating experience.
Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread paired with the tangy crunch of KFC coleslaw creates a pleasant contrast that is both comforting and satisfying.
Potato Salad: Serve both as sides to offer a variety of textures and flavors; the creamy potato salad complements the sauces and spices in your main dish.
Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade cleanses the palate and synergizes splendidly with the tangy profile of your coleslaw and the main dishes.
Fruit Salad: Fresh, juicy fruit adds a touch of sweetness that beautifully contrasts the savory elements of your meal, making each bite exciting and refreshing.

KFC Coleslaw Recipe FAQs

What type of cabbage should I use for KFC coleslaw?
Absolutely! For that authentic KFC coleslaw experience, use green cabbage as the main ingredient because it provides the crisp texture needed. If you want to get a bit fancy, a mix of green and red cabbage can add vibrant color and an extra crunch!

How long can I store KFC coleslaw in the refrigerator?
You can store your homemade KFC coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. The flavors will actually improve with overnight chilling, so don’t hesitate to make it a day ahead of time before your gathering!

Can I freeze KFC coleslaw?
I advise against freezing KFC coleslaw! Freezing can really compromise the crispness of the cabbage and carrots, turning them mushy when thawed. If you want the best texture, keep it refrigerated and enjoy it fresh!

Is there a way to adjust the sweetness of the coleslaw’s dressing?
Very! You can definitely tweak the amount of sugar in the dressing to suit your taste. If you prefer a more natural alternative, substitute the sugar with honey or agave syrup. Start with a smaller amount, taste, and add more if needed to get it just right for your palate.

Can I make KFC coleslaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shredded cabbage and grated carrots a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Just combine them with the dressing right before serving to ensure maximum freshness and crunch for your coleslaw!

Is this KFC coleslaw recipe suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Very! You can easily modify this recipe to accommodate dairy allergies by substituting buttermilk with a mixture of regular milk and lemon juice or vinegar, which mimics the tanginess. Additionally, consider using a dairy-free mayonnaise substitute for the dressing to keep it completely dairy-free while retaining that delicious creaminess.