KFC Coleslaw Recipe: The Secret Side Dish You Can Totally Master at Home
The Slaw That Outsold the Chicken (Almost)
Let’s be real: you didn’t go to KFC just for the chicken. You went for that KFC coleslaw—the creamy, tangy, slightly sweet side that somehow made cabbage cool. And now, guess what? You can make it at home. No drive-thru, no mystery ingredients, just pure, homemade slaw glory.
🥄 Why This KFC Coleslaw Recipe Is a Game-Changer
This isn’t just any coleslaw. It’s KFC coleslaw—the one with the finely chopped cabbage, the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, and that creamy dressing that makes you forget you’re eating vegetables. It’s easy to make, impresses guests, and pairs with everything from fried chicken to BBQ ribs. Plus, making it yourself means you can have it anytime, no bucket required.
🧂 Ingredients
- 8 cups finely chopped green cabbage (about 1 medium head)
- 1/4 cup shredded carrot (about 1 medium carrot)
- 2 tablespoons minced onion
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Substitutions:
- No buttermilk? Mix 1/4 cup milk with 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and mayo alternatives.
🛠️ Tools & Kitchen Gadgets Used
- Chef’s knife – For chopping cabbage and onion.
- Box grater – To shred the carrot finely.
- Large mixing bowl – To combine all ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Precision matters!
- Whisk – To blend the dressing smoothly.
- Plastic wrap or airtight container – For chilling the coleslaw.
Affiliate links can be inserted here for each tool.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Veggies: Finely chop the cabbage and onion. Shred the carrot using a box grater.
- Make the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, mayonnaise, buttermilk, milk, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine: Add the chopped cabbage, shredded carrot, and minced onion to the bowl with the dressing. Mix thoroughly until all the veggies are well-coated.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld.
- Serve: Give it a good stir before serving. Enjoy your homemade KFC coleslaw!
📊 Calories & Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 170
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 1g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-chopping the cabbage: You want fine pieces, not mush. Think rice-sized, not baby food.
- Skipping the chill time: Patience, grasshopper. The flavors need time to mingle.
- Using low-fat mayo: This is not the time to cut calories. Full-fat mayo gives the best flavor and texture.
- Forgetting to stir before serving: The dressing settles; give it a good mix to redistribute.
🔄 Variations & Customizations
- Keto-Friendly: Swap the sugar for a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Herbaceous Twist: Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added freshness.
❓ FAQ Section
Q: Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure it’s plain cabbage and carrot without any added dressing.
Q: How long does homemade coleslaw last?
A: Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it should last 3-5 days.
Q: Is this coleslaw gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as your mayonnaise and other ingredients are gluten-free.
A: Yes, use plant-based milk and mayo alternatives.
Q: Why does my coleslaw get watery?
A: Salt draws moisture from the cabbage. To reduce this, you can salt the cabbage, let it sit, then drain before mixing with the dressing.
Q: Can I freeze coleslaw?
A: Not recommended. The texture becomes unappetizing after freezing and thawing.
Q: What pairs well with KFC coleslaw?
A: It’s a versatile side! Great with fried chicken, BBQ ribs, sandwiches, or even as a topping for tacos.
🏁 Final Thoughts
There you have it—a homemade KFC coleslaw that might just outshine the original. Easy to make, delicious to eat, and sure to impress. So next time you’re craving that iconic side, skip the drive-thru and whip this up at home. Your taste buds (and wallet) will thank you.
