If you’re looking for a creamy, crunchy side dish that pairs perfectly with just about anything, then this KFC Copycat Coleslaw is exactly what you need! It’s a family favorite across the US and UK, and it brings back memories of summer barbecues and cozy gatherings. The best part? You can whip it up in your own kitchen with ease!
This coleslaw is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, alongside fried chicken, or as part of a healthy meal prep for the week, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to keep this gem in your recipe arsenal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: In just 15 minutes, you can have this delightful coleslaw ready to chill in the fridge.
- Family-Friendly Flavor: With its creamy dressing and crunchy veggies, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
- Make-Ahead Convenience: It tastes even better after sitting for a bit—perfect for preparing ahead of gatherings.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these wholesome ingredients on hand already!
- Perfect Side Dish: It complements a variety of main courses, making it an ideal addition to any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this KFC Copycat Coleslaw requires just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Slaw
- ½ head cabbage, finely chopped (about 4 cups)
- ½ medium carrot, finely chopped
For the Dressing
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk
- 4¼ teaspoons white vinegar
- 1½ tablespoons onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 4 teaspoons sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅜ teaspoon pepper
Variations
This KFC Copycat Coleslaw is flexible and can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:
- Add Some Spice: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a zesty kick!
- Go Vegan: Substitute the buttermilk and whole milk with plant-based alternatives like almond milk or vegan yogurt.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an added layer of flavor.
- Fruit Twist: Add some chopped apples or raisins for a sweet crunch that balances out the savory flavors.
How to Make KFC Copycat Coleslaw
Step 1: Chop the Veggies
Using a food processor, chop the cabbage by pulsing until finely chopped. Work in small batches to ensure you get those perfect little squares without turning them into mush. Do the same with the carrot and combine both in a medium bowl. This base will give your coleslaw that classic texture everyone loves.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, mix together all the dressing ingredients until smooth. Pour this creamy goodness over your cabbage-carrot mixture and stir well. Don’t worry if it looks a bit dry at first—the moisture from the cabbage will come through beautifully as it sits!
Step 3: Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate your coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time allows all those flavors to meld together while letting the cabbage release its moisture. Give it another good stir before serving up this delightful dish!
Pro Tips for Making KFC Copycat Coleslaw
To ensure your KFC Copycat Coleslaw turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cabbage and carrots elevate the flavor and texture of your coleslaw, making it crispier and more enjoyable.
Let it rest: Allowing your coleslaw to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together, resulting in a more delicious dish.
Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, feel free to add a bit more sugar. Just remember to balance it with the acidity from the vinegar and lemon juice.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other seasonings like celery seed or garlic powder to give your coleslaw an extra kick of flavor.
Chill serving bowl: For an extra touch of freshness, chill your serving bowl before adding the coleslaw. This keeps it cool during serving time.
How to Serve KFC Copycat Coleslaw
Presenting your KFC Copycat Coleslaw in an appealing way can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish:
Garnishes
- Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of herbaceous flavor.
- Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a splash of citrus for extra zest if desired.
Side Dishes
- Grilled chicken: Juicy grilled chicken complements the crunchy coleslaw perfectly while keeping the meal light and healthy.
- Corn on the cob: Sweet corn on the cob adds a delightful contrast in texture and sweetness that pairs beautifully with coleslaw.
- Baked beans: The smoky, rich flavor of baked beans creates a hearty contrast that rounds out your meal nicely.
- Potato salad: A classic potato salad offers a creamy counterpart to the crispness of coleslaw, making for a satisfying plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
This KFC Copycat Coleslaw is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can easily whip it up ahead of time and store it, ensuring you have a delicious side dish ready to go!
Storing Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Consume within 3-5 days for best freshness.
- Give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle.
Freezing
- While coleslaw is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if necessary.
- Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 2 months; however, expect some texture changes upon thawing.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving if frozen.
- Serve cold for the ideal texture; reheating is not recommended as it will wilt the cabbage.
FAQs
Can I make KFC Copycat Coleslaw without buttermilk?
Absolutely! You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and vinegar (1 tablespoon of vinegar plus enough milk to make 2 tablespoons) or use dairy-free alternatives like plant-based yogurt.
How long does KFC Copycat Coleslaw last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this coleslaw can last in the fridge for about 3-5 days. Remember to give it a quick stir before enjoying leftovers!
What makes KFC Copycat Coleslaw taste so good?
The combination of fresh vegetables and a creamy dressing with a hint of sweetness makes this coleslaw incredibly flavorful. The balance of acidity from vinegar and lemon juice adds to its refreshing taste.
Final Thoughts
This KFC Copycat Coleslaw is not just a side dish; it’s a delightful addition that brings crunch and flavor to any meal. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!
KFC Copycat Coleslaw
Indulge in the delightful crunch and creamy texture of KFC Copycat Coleslaw, a beloved side dish that brings a taste of summer to your table year-round. This easy-to-make coleslaw is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a vibrant addition to any meal. With a combination of finely chopped cabbage and carrots enveloped in a rich dressing, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. Best of all, this recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Enjoy this versatile coleslaw alongside grilled chicken or as part of your meal prep for the week!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- ½ head cabbage, finely chopped (about 4 cups)
- ½ medium carrot, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk
- 4¼ teaspoons white vinegar
- 1½ tablespoons onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 4 teaspoons sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅜ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Chop the cabbage and carrot using a food processor until finely chopped. Combine them in a medium bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vinegar, onion, whole milk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage-carrot mixture and stir well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
