If you’ve ever wondered how to recreate that famous KFC coleslaw at home, you’re in the right place. This super simple KFC Coleslaw Recipe will give you that same creamy, tangy taste you love, right from your own kitchen. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a refreshing side that works wonders at any barbecue or family dinner.

Growing up, coleslaw was a constant at our family gatherings. My grandmother always claimed her coleslaw was just “a little something I whipped up,” but I suspect she had a secret recipe of her own. When I discovered this copycat recipe, I was thrilled to find that taste from my childhood holiday table was achievable in my kitchen too, regardless of not having her secret notes. Now, I’m excited to share this easy-to-make recipe with all of you, so you can create your own traditions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy; just a few staples from your pantry.
Quick to Prepare: Perfect for last-minute potlucks or dinners. Ready in under 20 minutes!
Tangy and Flavorful: The perfect balance of creaminess and vinegar gives it that classic KFC taste.
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this coleslaw; it’s a sure hit every time.

Ingredients Notes

For this recipe, you’ll need cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. You can easily find these at any grocery store. If you prefer, use pre-shredded cabbage and carrots to save time. APPLE CIDER vinegar works best for that authentic tang, but white vinegar is a suitable substitute.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Shred the cabbage and carrots finely. You can do this by hand or use a food processor for a finer texture, similar to the original KFC style.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy.

Step 3

Add the shredded cabbage and carrots into the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated with the dressing.

Step 4

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw into an airtight container. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5

Give the coleslaw a good stir before serving to reincorporate any dressing that might have settled at the bottom. Enjoy your homemade version of a classic favorite.

Storage Options

This coleslaw is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the texture of the cabbage and carrots. For best results, stir before serving leftovers to redistribute the dressing.

Variations & Substitutions

Dairy-Free: Replace the mayonnaise with a vegan version to make it suitable for a dairy-free diet.
Extra Crunch: Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
Spicy Twist: Include a teaspoon of hot sauce or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for a summer barbecue, pair this coleslaw with grilled chicken or burgers. It also complements spicy dishes as a refreshing side. Serve it at your next picnic or potluck—it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time? Yes! In fact, making it a day ahead enhances the flavors as the cabbage and carrots absorb more of the dressing. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a stir before serving.

What can I do if my coleslaw becomes too watery? If your coleslaw becomes watery, it’s likely due to the cabbage releasing moisture. Drain the excess liquid, then add a bit more mayonnaise to balance the consistency without losing that creamy texture.

Is it possible to make this coleslaw healthier? Absolutely, you can use a reduced-fat mayonnaise or substitute half of the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. It retains all the taste with added nutrients!

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