Sides
KFC Inspired Coleslaw
A sweet, creamy coleslaw made with finely chopped cabbage, carrots, and onions tossed in a smooth, tangy dressing. This homemade version delivers the same refreshing crunch that pairs perfectly with fried chicken, barbecue, sandwiches, and burgers.
Inspired by KFC
Prep
15 min
Cook
0 min
Serves
8 servings
Difficulty
Easy
Method
Recipe notes
Chop, do not merely shred, the cabbage for the fine restaurant-style texture. The dressing will draw water from the vegetables as it rests, so the mixture should look slightly under-dressed at first.
Planning, storage, and serving
Storage and reheating
Keep covered at 40°F (4°C) or colder and use within 3 days. Do not freeze, and discard coleslaw left out for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour in very hot weather.
Make-ahead tips
Prepare 2-12 hours ahead so the cabbage softens and the dressing develops. For maximum crunch, chop vegetables and mix dressing separately up to 1 day ahead, then combine 2 hours before serving.
What to serve with it
- - Fried or grilled chicken
- - Pulled-pork sandwiches
- - Burgers and baked beans
Equipment needed
- - Food processor or sharp chef's knife
- - Large mixing bowl
- - Whisk and airtight container
Difficulty explained
This easy side relies on fine, even chopping and enough chilling time rather than cooking skill.
Nutrition estimate
Calories
165
Protein
2g
Carbs
20g
Fat
9g
Sat. fat
1.5g
Fiber
2g
Sugar
16g
Sodium
240mg
Estimated nutrition per serving. Values are approximate and can change materially with brands, substitutions, optional toppings, portion size, and cooking method.
Alternatives
Apply a reviewed substitution to this temporary working copy. The published recipe stays unchanged.
Milk plus lemon juice
For each cup, combine 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice and rest for 5 minutes.
Plain Greek yogurt
Replace up to half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
2% milk
Use the same amount of 2% milk for a straightforward lower-fat swap.
Type the ingredient you're missing — we'll find what you can use instead.
Pitfalls to Watch Out For
- Wet cabbage makes watery slaw; dry washed vegetables thoroughly before chopping and dressing.
- Adding extra dressing before the resting period can leave a soupy bowl after the cabbage releases moisture.
- Mayonnaise and dairy require refrigeration; do not keep the serving bowl in direct sun or return warmed leftovers to storage.
Nutrition Context
- Cabbage and carrot add fiber and vegetables, while mayonnaise and sugar supply much of the calories and added sugar.
- A smaller dressing amount or partial yogurt substitution can reduce richness, but it also changes the classic sweet-creamy character.
FAQ
Why is the cabbage chopped so finely?
Small pieces absorb the sweet-tangy dressing evenly and create the restaurant-style texture. Pulse carefully so the cabbage does not become wet mush.
Can I replace the buttermilk?
Use milk mixed with a small splash of lemon juice and let it stand five minutes. It will provide similar acidity, though slightly less richness.
Why did my coleslaw become watery?
Cabbage releases liquid as it rests. Drain very wet cabbage, measure the dressing carefully, and stir before serving instead of adding more dressing.
How far ahead can I make coleslaw?
It tastes best after at least two hours and can be made the night before. Keep it tightly covered and continuously refrigerated.
How long is creamy coleslaw safe to keep?
Refrigerate it promptly and use within three days. Discard coleslaw left out longer than two hours, or one hour in very hot weather.
What sides pair best with this dish?
Good pairings include Fried or grilled chicken; Pulled-pork sandwiches; Burgers and baked beans. Choose one or two based on how substantial you want the meal to be.