If you’ve ever been to KFC, you know their coleslaw is a beloved side dish that steals the show. It’s creamy, tangy, and refreshingly crunchy. It pairs perfectly with fried chicken, and even on its own, it's irresistible. The Famous KFC Coleslaw recipe is surprisingly easy to recreate at home, and once you do, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner! Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, enjoying a casual weeknight dinner, or craving something cool and creamy to complement your meal, this coleslaw will quickly become your go-to recipe.
Let’s dive into how you can make this iconic coleslaw from scratch. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a dish that tastes just like KFC’s—if not better!
Ingredients
Each ingredient in this coleslaw has a specific role to create the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tbsp finely grated onion: Adds a subtle, savory flavor that cuts through the sweetness and tanginess of the dressing.
- ⅓ cup sugar: The sugar balances out the acidity and gives the coleslaw its signature sweetness.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: The base of the dressing, giving the coleslaw its rich and creamy texture.
- ¼ cup buttermilk: Provides a slight tang and a smooth creaminess to the dressing.
- ¼ cup whole milk: Helps to thin the dressing slightly, making it easier to coat the slaw mix evenly.
- 2 tbsp white vinegar: A touch of acidity that brightens up the entire dish and helps to balance the sweetness.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Enhances the tanginess of the dressing and adds a fresh, zesty note.
- ¼ tsp salt: Brings all the flavors together and helps to enhance the other ingredients.
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper: Adds a subtle hint of spice to round out the flavor.
- ½ bag of shredded coleslaw mix (about 4 cups): The star of the show! This mix of shredded cabbage and carrots provides the perfect crunch and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dressing
Start by making the dressing. In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- 1 tbsp finely grated onion
- ⅓ cup sugar
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup well-shaken buttermilk
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The sugar will dissolve, and the dressing should be creamy with a slight tang from the vinegar and lemon juice.
2. Add the Coleslaw Mix
Now it’s time to add the shredded coleslaw mix. Gently pour about 4 cups of coleslaw mix into the bowl with the dressing. Toss the cabbage and carrots in the dressing until they’re evenly coated. This step ensures that every bit of cabbage gets that creamy, flavorful coating.
3. Let It Chill
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This gives the flavors time to meld together, making the coleslaw even more delicious. If you can let it sit overnight, even better! The longer it chills, the more the flavors develop.
4. Stir and Serve
Before serving, give the coleslaw a final stir to make sure the dressing is evenly distributed. You can serve this cold and enjoy it as a refreshing side to any meal.
Why This Recipe Is Loved
This Famous KFC Coleslaw recipe is a hit for many reasons:
- Perfect balance of flavors: The sweetness from the sugar, tang from the vinegar and lemon juice, and richness from the mayonnaise come together perfectly.
- Creamy yet crunchy: The shredded cabbage provides that satisfying crunch, while the creamy dressing offers a smooth contrast.
- Versatile: It’s an ideal side dish for fried chicken, burgers, sandwiches, and even grilled meats. It’s also fantastic at picnics and barbecues.
- Quick and easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant, but you made it yourself.
Pro Tips for the Best KFC Coleslaw
- Grate the onion finely: A finely grated onion blends into the dressing without overpowering the other flavors. This ensures it adds a subtle savoriness rather than a sharp bite.
- Use well-shaken buttermilk: Buttermilk can sometimes separate. Be sure to shake the bottle well before using to ensure a smooth texture in your dressing.
- Don’t skip the chilling time: The flavors need time to meld together. If you try to serve it too soon, it might taste a bit too sharp or not as balanced.
- Add a bit of extra sugar: If you like your coleslaw a little sweeter, feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste. Some people prefer a slightly sweeter coleslaw, especially when serving it with spicy or tangy dishes.
Serving Suggestions
This KFC coleslaw is perfect as a side dish to pair with a wide variety of meals. Here are a few suggestions:
- Fried Chicken: The classic pairing! The cool, creamy coleslaw balances the crispy, salty chicken.
- BBQ Ribs: The tanginess of the coleslaw complements the smoky, savory ribs.
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Add some slaw right on top of the sandwich for a crunchy, creamy texture.
- Grilled Fish Tacos: A fresh, light coleslaw adds crunch to these flavorful tacos.
Conclusion: Easy, Delicious, and Irresistible!
This Famous KFC Coleslaw recipe is the perfect side dish for any occasion. It’s easy to make, requires just a few simple ingredients, and delivers on flavor in a big way. Whether you’re serving it with fried chicken, grilled meats, or just enjoying it on its own, this coleslaw will become a staple in your recipe collection. Quick, tasty, and crowd-pleasing, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Give it a try today—you won’t be disappointed!