Illustration of a smiling grandma in a chef hat and apron, holding a wooden spoon, with the text GrandmaRecipe.com below her.Search

lunch

KFC Coleslaw

By Grandma Millie

Be the first to rate this recipe

Bowl of KFC Coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and creamy dressing.

kfc coleslaw brings equal parts nostalgia and sunny picnic vibes, wrapping every bite in a creamy, tangy hug. This homemade take tosses finely shredded green and purple cabbage with sweet carrots in a lush dressing of mayo, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, a hint of sugar, and bright lemon juice. A touch of honey nudges the sweet-tart balance just right, while celery seeds add a gentle, classic note. Let it chill so the flavors meld and the crunch stays lively. kfc coleslaw is perfect alongside fried chicken, stacked on burgers, or packed solo in your picnic basket for spoonfuls of pure happiness.

Prep: 15 mins
Total: 2 hrs 15 mins
Serves: 4 servings
Calories: 150

Recipe card

Print / PDF

KFC Coleslaw

Rate this recipe

Be the first to rate

Prep Time
15 mins
chilling time
2 hrs
Total Time
2 hrs 15 mins
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients

  • 1 small head green cabbage (Finely shredded.)
  • 1 large carrot (Peeled and grated.)
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion (Adds flavor.)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (For creaminess.)
  • 2 tablespoons buttermilk (Adds a tangy flavor.)
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar (For acidity.)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (Balances the flavors.)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (Enhances taste.)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (Adds a little kick.)

Equipment

  • 1 Large mixing bowl — For mixing vegetables and dressing.
  • 1 whisk — For mixing the dressing.

Method

  1. 1

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and chopped onion. Mix them gently to ensure an even distribution.

  2. 2

    In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth. This creamy dressing is the heart of your coleslaw!

  3. 3

    Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated in that delicious dressing.

  4. 4

    Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and texture. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

  5. 5

    Before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir and adjust the seasoning if needed. Enjoy your homemade KFC Coleslaw as a perfect side dish!

Notes

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories150
Fat12g
Protein1g
Carbs10g
Sugar3g
Sodium200mg

Why You’ll Love This KFC Coleslaw

  • It’s a creamy, tangy delight that perfectly complements any meal.
  • Made with fresh ingredients, it’s a healthier choice for your sides.
  • Easy to whip up at home, saving you a trip to the drive-thru.
  • Customize it to your taste with extra crunch or sweetness!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your delicious KFC Coleslaw at home!

Fresh ingredients for KFC Coleslaw displayed on a kitchen table.
  • 1 small head green cabbage – finely shredded
  • 1 large carrot – peeled and grated
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion – adds flavor
  • ½ cup mayonnaise – for creaminess
  • 2 tablespoons buttermilk – adds a tangy flavor
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar – for acidity
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar – balances the flavors
  • ½ teaspoon salt – enhances taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper – adds a little kick

How to Make KFC Coleslaw

Making KFC Coleslaw at home is a delightful experience. With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a chilling time of at least 2 hours, this recipe is simple and rewarding. Let’s dive into the steps!

Step-by-step preparation of KFC Coleslaw, showcasing vegetables, dressing, and mixing process.

Step 1: Combine the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and chopped onion. Mix them gently to ensure an even distribution.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth. This creamy dressing is the heart of your coleslaw!

Step 3: Combine Dressing and Vegetables

Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated in that delicious dressing.

Step 4: Chill the Coleslaw

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and texture. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir and adjust the seasoning if needed. Enjoy your homemade KFC Coleslaw as a perfect side dish!

Recipe Snapshot

FeatureDetails
CategorySide Dish
CuisineAmerican
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time0 minutes
Extra Time120 minutes (resting)
Total Time135 minutes
DietaryVegetarian
Serves4
Best ServedChilled as a side dish

Pro Tips for Making KFC Coleslaw

  • Shred the cabbage finely for a better texture.
  • Let the coleslaw chill for at least an hour before serving.
  • Use fresh, crunchy carrots for added sweetness and color.
  • Adjust the sugar to taste for your preferred sweetness level.
  • Mix the dressing separately before combining for even flavor distribution.

How to Serve this KFC Coleslaw

  • Serve it chilled as a refreshing side dish at summer barbecues.
  • Pair it with crispy fried chicken for the ultimate comfort meal.
  • Use it as a crunchy topping on sandwiches or burgers.
  • Mix it into tacos for a zesty twist on your favorite fillings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing and enjoying your KFC Coleslaw later is easy!

Storing KFC Coleslaw Leftovers

  • Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to avoid flavor transfer.

Freezing KFC Coleslaw

  • Coleslaw is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it.
  • Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
  • Leave some space for expansion; seal tightly.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating KFC Coleslaw

  • Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Stir well to restore texture after thawing.
  • Serve cold for the best taste; avoid reheating in the microwave.

Explore more easy breakfast recipes, quick lunch ideas, cozy dinner meals, tasty snacks, and delightful dessert.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have the secret to KFC Coleslaw right at your fingertips, it’s time to whip up this creamy, crunchy delight! Enjoy it as a side with your favorite meals or just on its own. Remember, making this dish is not just simple; it’s a rewarding experience that brings a taste of nostalgia to your table. Happy cooking!

Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Straight answers from the kitchen — storage, swaps, and common sticking points for this recipe.

Does KFC still sell coleslaw?
Yes, KFC still offers coleslaw as a side dish on their menu. It’s a popular choice among customers who enjoy its creamy texture and tangy flavor, making it a staple at KFC locations across the country.
Why does KFC coleslaw taste so good?
KFC coleslaw is beloved for its perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, combined with a creamy dressing that complements the crunchy cabbage and carrots. The unique blend of ingredients creates a flavor profile that many find irresistible, making it a favorite side dish for fried chicken lovers.
What is KFC coleslaw made of?
KFC coleslaw is made from finely shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing that typically includes mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, and a few seasonings. This combination gives it that signature taste that fans have come to love.
What is the secret to KFC coleslaw flavor?
The secret to KFC coleslaw’s flavor lies in its dressing, which combines sweetness from sugar with a tangy kick from vinegar. The use of fresh, crisp vegetables also enhances the overall taste and texture, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Kitchen notes

Nutrition & sources

Calorie and nutrition figures on this page are estimates meant for general home-cooking guidance. Actual values vary with brands, portion size, and how the recipe is prepared.

Estimates draw on typical ingredient data from public nutrition databases such as the USDA FoodData Central. They are not a substitute for professional medical or dietary advice.

For how recipes are tested and when pages are updated, see How we test recipes. Full legal context lives in our disclaimers and affiliate disclosure.

Comments

Made this recipe? Share how it turned out for your family.

No comments yet — be the first to leave a note.

More to cook

Related Lunch recipes

More cozy favorites from the same kitchen shelf.

Browse all lunch →
Chop sandwich with toasted bread and fresh vegetables on a wooden board.

lunch

Chop Sandwich

chop sandwich delivers a bold, satisfying bite packed with vibrant flavors and irresistible texture. Tender grilled chicken (or tofu for a plant-based option) is finely chopped and tossed with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, thin cucumbers, shredded carrots, and colorful bell peppers for the perfect crunch in every mouthful. Layered between slices of toasted sourdough and finished with a tangy, creamy herb spread or zesty avocado-lime aioli, this chop sandwich is fresh, hearty, and bursting with flavor. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s the ultimate lunch or picnic favorite that never disappoints.

Continue reading →

A plate of stir-fried rice stick noodles with vegetables and herbs on a wooden table.

lunch

Rice Stick Noodles

Rice stick noodles are light, tender noodles that cook quickly and soak up bold flavors beautifully. Tossed with crisp bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots, they create a colorful, veggie-packed dish. A savory tamari sauce with ginger, garlic, and a splash of citrus adds brightness, while sesame oil brings a subtle nutty finish. Topped with fresh herbs and a bit of crunch from nuts or seeds, rice stick noodles make an easy, gluten-free meal perfect for busy weeknights or simple, comforting dinners.

Continue reading →