KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe

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There’s nothing quite like the feeling of biting into a crunchy, creamy mound of coleslaw alongside your favorite fried chicken. Now, I’m a firm believer that KFC nailed it when it comes to coleslaw, but what if I told you that you could recreate this famous side dish in your own kitchen?

Imagine the joy of serving it at your next barbecue, picnic, or family gathering. This coleslaw pairs beautifully with grilled meats, burgers, sandwiches, or even as a vibrant topping on tacos. It’s a culinary companion that never disappoints.

What Is the KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe?

This recipe captures the essence of KFC’s original coleslaw—a blend of finely chopped cabbage and carrots mixed with a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s not just any coleslaw; it’s the kind that makes you nostalgic for that first bite of comfort food.

Imagine sitting around the dinner table, a big bowl of this coleslaw in front of you, and everyone’s reaching for seconds. The flavors are perfectly balanced. You have the sweetness from the sugar, the tang from the vinegar and lemon juice, and that unmistakable creaminess from the mayonnaise and buttermilk.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipes?

Simply put, this recipe isn’t just a repeat of what you’ve seen before. It adds a few personal twists that elevate the flavors even more.

While many recipes may stick closely to the original formulation, I’ve honed in on a balance that amplifies freshness, ensuring every bite reignites those memories of cranking open the KFC styrofoam container.

By incorporating quality ingredients, like finely grated onions and fresh parsley, I’ve crafted a version that tastes so close to the original, you might think it came straight from the Colonel’s kitchen.

How Does It Taste?

Imagine a symphony of flavors dancing on your palate. The first bite offers a delightful crunch from the cabbage. Sweetness arrives from the sugar, while a hint of tang brightens the profile thanks to the vinegar and lemon juice.

The creaminess from the mayonnaise brings everything together. The uniqueness arises from the buttermilk and Dijon mustard, creating an enriching taste that stays with you, urging you for another helping. Overall, it’s smooth, crunchy, tangy, and sweet—a flavor profile that satisfies on so many levels.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Gather these essentials to get started:

8 cups finely shredded coleslaw cabbage (about one 16-ounce bag)

½ cup creamy mayonnaise
¼ cup whole milk
1 tablespoon finely grated yellow onion

2½ tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1½ tablespoons distilled white vinegar

½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ cup well-shaken buttermilk
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for tang and depth)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (adds freshness)
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Start by taking your shredded cabbage and placing it in a large mixing bowl. If you prefer a finer texture, you can put the cabbage through a food processor. However, I find that a gentle hand works wonders, and you can control the size better this way. The texture is essential for that coveted crunch.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In another bowl—a medium-sized one—combine the mayonnaise, whole milk, buttermilk, sugar, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and vinegar. Whisk it together until smooth. This is where the magic happens, transforming those individual ingredients into a divine dressing. The mix should be creamy yet pourable, like a rich sauce that’s just begging to meld with your cabbage.

Step 3: Add the Flavor

Next comes the onion. Finely grate it and add it to your dressing mixture. The onion will impart a beautiful depth to the flavor, making the coleslaw taste freshly prepared. Don’t forget to add in the Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper as well.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once your dressing is ready and your cabbage is prepped, it’s time to combine. Pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage and toss it all together until every shred is evenly coated. This is where you’ll want to get in there and mix it well. Use salad tongs or your hands; however, you feel comfortable.

Step 5: Let It Chill

Transfer your coleslaw to a large serving dish or a mason jar, if you want to keep it for later. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least an hour. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

After letting it chill, it’s time for the moment of truth! Give it a good stir before serving, and watch everyone dive into this crunchy goodness. Pile it high next to fried chicken or grilled meats, and watch it steal the show.

Tips & Tricks On Making KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe

Here are some helpful tips to consider:

Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh cabbage and veggies. They add notable crunch and flavor.
Customize Your Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter or tangier coleslaw, adjust the sugar and vinegar to your taste.

Aging is Good: Allow the coleslaw to sit for a few hours or even overnight for the best flavor. The longer it chills, the better it gets!
Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative. Add finely shredded carrots for extra color or raisins for sweetness.
Storage: This dish lasts well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container!

Nutrition Information

Here’s a basic rundown on the nutrition for a serving of this coleslaw recipe:

These values can vary based on ingredient substitutions.

How Do I Store This Dish?

Storing is easy! After preparing your coleslaw, transfer it to an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for about three days. Just remember to give it a good mix before serving as the dressing may separate during storage.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in the KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe?

If you’re looking to mix things up or have specific dietary needs, here are some great substitutes:

Greek Yogurt: Swap out some or all of the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. It adds a tangy flavor and reduces calories.
Vegan Mayonnaise: For a plant-based option, use vegan mayonnaise in place of regular mayo. It works perfectly without sacrificing creaminess.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Instead of distilled vinegar, apple cider vinegar gives a slightly different tang and can enhance the flavor.
Cabbage Variations: Experiment with different types of cabbage, like Napa or purple cabbage, for a unique twist.
Honey or Agave: If you want a natural sweetener, replace granulated sugar with honey or agave. This could change the texture slightly, so adjust cautiously.

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of biting into a crunchy, creamy mound of coleslaw alongside your favorite fried chicken.

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Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings

Calories 176 kcal

Equipment

Bowl
Whisk

Ingredients

8 cups finely shredded coleslaw cabbage

½ cup creamy mayonnaise
¼ cup whole milk
1 tablespoon finely grated yellow onion

2½ tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1½ tablespoons distilled white vinegar

½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ cup well-shaken buttermilk
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper