I’ve always loved the creamy tang of Kentucky Fried Chicken’s coleslaw. There’s something special about that perfect balance of crunchy vegetables and zesty dressing that makes it so irresistible.
But recreating that classic taste at home seemed daunting—until I decided to give it a try myself. After some tweaking, I finally nailed the authentic flavor that brings back those favorite KFC memories.
I’m excited to share this copycat recipe with you. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or just craving a tasty side, this easy coleslaw will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients
For the Coleslaw
- 1/2 head green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 head red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
For the Dressing
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons buttermilk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
Instructions
Recreating KFC’s coleslaw at home is a rewarding experience. Follow these steps to achieve that iconic flavor.
Prep the Vegetables
- Finely shred 2 cups of green cabbage and 1 cup of red cabbage using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer.
- Grate 1/2 cup of fresh carrots.
- Thinly slice 1/4 cup of green onions.
- Combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and sliced green onions in a large mixing bowl.
Make the Dressing
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise and 1/4 cup of buttermilk until smooth.
- Add 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the mixture.
- Season with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of celery seed.
- Continue whisking until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the dressing is creamy.
Combine Coleslaw and Dressing
- Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetable mixture in the large bowl.
- Toss everything thoroughly to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Taste the coleslaw and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or sugar to suit your preference.
Chill the Coleslaw
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the coleslaw chilled, enjoying its creamy and tangy goodness as a perfect side dish.
Tools and Equipment
To recreate the perfect KFC-style coleslaw, having the right tools makes all the difference.
Required Tools
- Large Mixing Bowl: Combines the shredded vegetables and dressing.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: Finely shreds the cabbage and slices the green onions.
- Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface for chopping and slicing.
- Grater: Grates the carrots evenly.
- Whisk: Blends the dressing ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients.
- Spatula: Mixes the coleslaw thoroughly.
Optional Tools
- Food Processor: Speeds up the shredding and chopping process.
- Salad Spinner: Removes excess moisture from the shredded cabbage.
- Additional Mixing Bowls: For prepping ingredients separately.
- Immersion Blender: Achieves a smoother dressing consistency.
- Kitchen Scale: Provides precise measurement of ingredients.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing coleslaw ahead of time not only saves you time on the day you’re serving it but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how I ensure my Kentucky Fried Chicken copycat coleslaw is fresh and delicious when it’s time to serve.
Step 1: Prepare and Mix
After combining all the vegetables and dressing, give the coleslaw a thorough mix to ensure every strand is evenly coated. This step is crucial for balanced flavor distribution.
Step 2: Storage Container
Transfer the coleslaw into an airtight container. I prefer using a glass container with a tight-sealing lid to maintain freshness and prevent any odors from the refrigerator from affecting the taste.
Step 3: Refrigerate
Place the container in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, let the coleslaw chill for at least two hours. However, preparing it up to 24 hours in advance can enhance the taste even more.
Step 4: Serving
When you’re ready to serve, give the coleslaw a gentle stir. If it looks a bit dry, you can add a splash of buttermilk or a teaspoon of mayonnaise to refresh the dressing.
Storage Guidelines
| Storage Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Up to 24 hours | Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Flavors meld and improve over time. |
| 24-48 hours | Coleslaw remains fresh but may begin to lose its crunch. Stir gently before serving. |
| Beyond 48 hours | Best consumed within 48 hours to maintain optimal flavor and texture. |
By following these make-ahead steps, you can ensure that your coleslaw is always ready to complement your meals with that perfect KFC-like taste.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Kentucky Fried Chicken Coleslaw with these creative serving ideas:
Classic Pairings
- Fried Chicken: Serve alongside crispy fried chicken for an authentic KFC-style meal.
- Grilled Meats: Complement grilled chicken, pork chops, or beef burgers with a generous scoop of creamy coleslaw.
- Barbecue Ribs: The tangy coleslaw balances the rich flavors of smoky barbecue ribs perfectly.
Light and Refreshing Options
- Sandwiches and Sliders: Add a layer of coleslaw to your favorite sandwiches or sliders for extra crunch and flavor.
- Tacos and Wraps: Use coleslaw as a vibrant topping for tacos, wraps, or burritos to enhance texture and taste.
- Salad Bowls: Mix coleslaw into a larger salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, and your preferred protein for a hearty meal.
Creative Twists
- Coleslaw Topped Nachos: Sprinkle coleslaw over nachos with melted cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings for a unique appetizer.
- Stuffed Baked Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with coleslaw and crispy bacon for a satisfying side dish.
- Loaded Fries: Mix coleslaw into loaded fries with cheese, green onions, and a drizzle of your favorite sauce.
Presentation Tips
- Color Contrast: Enhance visual appeal by serving coleslaw in a bright dish to highlight its vibrant colors.
- Layered Platters: Create a layered platter with alternating sections of coleslaw and other side dishes for an attractive presentation.
- Garnishes: Sprinkle chopped parsley or additional sliced green onions on top for a fresh and polished look.
Make-It-Ahead Meals
- Buffets and Parties: Prepare a large batch of coleslaw in advance to serve at buffets, picnics, or gatherings, ensuring it’s always fresh and ready to enjoy.
- Meal Prep: Portion out coleslaw into individual containers to add to meals throughout the week, providing a quick and tasty side option.
Experiment with these serving suggestions to make your Kentucky Fried Chicken Coleslaw Copycat Recipe the star of any meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, enjoying a family dinner, or preparing a quick lunch, this versatile coleslaw adapts to various dishes, adding a delightful crunch and creamy tang to every bite.
Conclusion
Bringing myself back to that first bite of KFC coleslaw was priceless I’m thrilled to have cracked the code and can now enjoy it anytime at home Whether it’s for a family meal or a special gathering this coleslaw always steals the show I hope you give this recipe a try and savor the same creamy tang that makes it so irresistible
