KFC Style Coleslaw Recipe

Creamy KFC style coleslaw made with crisp cabbage, carrots, and tangy dressing—sweet, crunchy, and the perfect side for BBQs, picnics, or family meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of KFC Style Coleslaw lies in its humble ingredients, each of which plays a starring role. From the zip of lemon juice to the creamy backbone of mayonnaise, you’ll be amazed how these everyday staples transform into something so much greater than the sum of their parts!

• Onion, finely grated: Adds a subtle bite and deep savory backbone without overpowering the crisp veggies.
• Sugar: Balances the acidity of the vinegar and lemon, giving the dressing its signature sweetness.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base that ensures every shred of cabbage gets perfectly coated.
• Buttermilk, well shaken: Brings a gentle tang and luxurious texture, making the slaw light instead of heavy.
• Whole milk: Helps loosen the dressing for an even, pourable consistency.
• White vinegar: Essential for that signature twang and to brighten up all the flavors.
• Fresh lemon juice: Adds high notes of freshness and a gentle acid for zestiness.
• Salt: Makes every ingredient pop and pulls out their best flavors.
• Black pepper: Gives just a whisper of warmth to round out the dressing.
• Finely diced cabbage (or coleslaw mix): The main event—crisp, crunchy, and ready to soak up all that creamy goodness.
• Shredded carrot: Lends color, natural sweetness, and that classic look—skip if your coleslaw mix already includes carrots.

How to Make KFC Style Coleslaw

Step 1: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, add your finely grated onion, sugar, mayonnaise, buttermilk, milk, white vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined. This silky, tangy-sweet mixture is your ticket to authentic KFC Style Coleslaw flavor!

Step 2: Add the Fresh Veggies

Pour in your mountain of finely diced cabbage and shredded carrot (or simply dump in a bag of coleslaw mix for ultimate convenience). Use tongs or a sturdy spoon to toss everything together until every piece is evenly coated and gleaming with that luscious dressing.

Step 3: Chill and Let Flavors Meld

Cover your bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. If you can, let it sit overnight—this is when magic happens, as the flavors marry and the cabbage tenderizes just enough to reach that trademark soft-and-crunchy texture of true KFC Style Coleslaw.

Step 4: Stir, Drain, and Serve Cold

Right before serving, give your coleslaw a good toss to redistribute the dressing. If any excess liquid has pooled at the bottom, simply drain it off. Pile your coleslaw high on a platter or spoon it beside your favorite mains, and serve ice cold for maximum refreshment!

How to Serve KFC Style Coleslaw

Garnishes

While authentic KFC Style Coleslaw is traditionally straightforward, there’s always room for a little flourish. Try sprinkling with a pinch of freshly chopped parsley for color, or add a light dusting of cracked black pepper for an extra pop.

Side Dishes

No bucket of fried chicken or smoky barbecue plate is truly complete without KFC Style Coleslaw alongside. It’s a natural partner for anything crispy and savory, but it’s surprisingly delightful next to grilled fish, roasted potatoes, or piled atop a juicy pulled pork sandwich.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your KFC Style Coleslaw to the next level by serving it in mini mason jars for a picnic, scooped onto slider buns with fried chicken, or layered in individual cups for perfect potluck portions. It’s also stellar tucked into wraps or tacos for a cool, crunchy twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover KFC Style Coleslaw covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The veggies will continue to soften slightly, but the flavor only gets richer. Always stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Freezing

Freezing is not ideal for KFC Style Coleslaw, as the texture of the cabbage changes and becomes watery once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh, so try to make just what you’ll use within a few days.

Reheating

KFC Style Coleslaw is meant to be served cold—so skip any heating! If it has been stored for a day or two, just give it a quick stir and maybe drain off a little liquid before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I make KFC Style Coleslaw in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead is encouraged. Letting your coleslaw sit in the fridge not only saves you time before a gathering but also blends the flavors for that authentic taste.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can mix 1/4 cup whole milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This homemade version works well and keeps your KFC Style Coleslaw nice and tangy.

Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix?

Definitely! Bagged coleslaw mix is a great shortcut for KFC Style Coleslaw and saves you a lot of time chopping. If the mix already includes carrots, feel free to skip adding extra.

How do I keep my coleslaw from getting watery?

Letting your coleslaw chill helps the veggies absorb some dressing, but if you notice excess liquid before serving, simply stir and pour off the extra. Using fresh, good-quality cabbage also helps maintain the perfect crunchy texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your mayonnaise, buttermilk, and other condiments are gluten-free (check the labels), this KFC Style Coleslaw is naturally gluten-free and perfect for sharing with everyone.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about the creamy crunch of KFC Style Coleslaw that makes every meal feel like a celebration. I hope this went-from-the-drive-thru classic brings a little nostalgia—and a lot of joy—to your table. Gather your ingredients and dive in; I can’t wait for you to taste how deliciously simple homemade coleslaw can be!

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