At a recent family picnic, I overheard my cousins raving about their favorite side dishes, and the winner? Coleslaw! This brought back memories of creamy, sweet, and tangy versions that always stole the spotlight. That’s when I realized it was time to unveil my Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw recipe. With its crunchy green cabbage and hints of lemon and buttermilk, this creamy dish isn’t just a breeze to whip up—it gets even better after a bit of chill time! Whether you’re heading to a potluck or just looking to elevate your weeknight dinners, this easy side dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Want to discover how to make your next meal memorable? Let’s dive in!
Why Is This Coleslaw So Amazing?
Simplicity Meets Flavor: This Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw requires minimal prep and delivers a delightful taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Make-Ahead Perfection: Prepare it a day in advance to let those flavors meld, making your life easier on busy days or gatherings.
Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with everything from grilled meats at a barbecue to burgers and sandwiches for an unforgettable crunch!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether at a family picnic or a casual dinner, this coleslaw is always a hit. Check out the Southern Coleslaw Crunchy for another twist!
Nutritional Boost: With simple ingredients, it’s a guilt-free addition to your plate, containing only about 180 calories per serving!
Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw Ingredients
• Note: Gather these fresh ingredients for a creamy version of coleslaw that outshines restaurant-style!
For the Slaw
- Green cabbage – the star ingredient providing that classic crunch and fresh taste.
- Carrot – adds beautiful color and a touch of sweetness; grate finely for even distribution.
- Yellow onion – imparts savory depth; mince finely to blend harmoniously with other ingredients.
For the Dressing
- Mayonnaise – serves as the creamy base, delivering richness and smoothness to the coleslaw.
- Granulated sugar – perfect for balancing the tanginess of vinegar with a hint of sweetness.
- Whole milk – helps to loosen the dressing for better coating of the vegetables.
- Buttermilk – adds tang and a diverse creamy texture typical of classic coleslaw.
- Apple cider vinegar – brightens the dressing and lends a delightful tang.
- Fresh lemon juice – enhances the freshness without overwhelming the dish.
- Salt – crucial for elevating vegetable flavors and avoiding a dull dish.
- Black pepper – adds a mild spice and depth, rounding out the flavor profile.
Using these ingredients, your Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw will become an instant favorite at any gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by finely chopping the green cabbage, ensuring uniformity for that classic crunch in your Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw. Grate one medium carrot and mince half a yellow onion very small, blending these vibrant vegetables together in a large mixing bowl. The colors should pop, and the textures should be soft yet crisp.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a separate large bowl, whisk together one cup of mayonnaise, two tablespoons of granulated sugar, and a splash of whole milk until smooth. Then, add half a cup of buttermilk, two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and the juice of half a lemon. Sprinkle in a teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper. Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved and the dressing is velvety.
Step 3: Combine Vegetables and Dressing
Once the dressing is ready, pour it over the chopped cabbage, grated carrot, and minced onion in the mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly to ensure every piece is well-coated in this creamy mixture, creating a beautiful blend of flavors. The vegetables should be glistening with the dressing, promising a delicious bite.
Step 4: Chill for Flavor Fusion
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least two hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the creamy texture and tangy notes of your Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s nicely chilled and the dressing has thickened.
Step 5: Final Stir and Serve
Before serving, give the coleslaw a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding a pinch of salt, pepper, or vinegar if desired. The coleslaw should be creamy, with a satisfying crunch. Serve it cold next to your favorite dishes, knowing you’ve created a picnic-perfect side!
Make Ahead Options
These Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can chop the green cabbage, grate the carrot, and mince the onion up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The creamy dressing can also be prepared ahead and kept separate for up to 3 days; just whisk it together and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the chilled vegetables and dressing, give it a good stir, and adjust the seasoning as necessary. This make-ahead method ensures you have a delicious, tangy coleslaw ready to impress your guests with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw
Bring your next meal to life with delightful pairings that elevate this vibrant side dish!
- Crispy Fried Chicken: The perfect companion, offering savory crunch that beautifully contrasts the creamy coleslaw.
- Barbecue Ribs: Tender, smoky, and sticky, these ribs harmonize with the tangy flavors and refreshing crunch of the slaw.
- Grilled Veggie Skewers: Lightly charred veggies add warmth and earthiness, enhancing the freshness of the coleslaw.
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: The rich and savory fillings are complemented by the slaw’s sharp bite, providing a delicious balance.
- Tacos: Pile this coleslaw on top for an unexpected twist; the crunch adds texture that pairs wonderfully with soft tortillas.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet, fluffy cornbread brings a comforting touch, countering the tangy notes in your coleslaw with every bite.
Each of these pairings not only enhances the flavors of your Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw but also brings texture and depth to your meal, creating a dining experience to remember!
Storage Tips for Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but stir before serving to recombine the dressing.
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Freezer: Avoid freezing coleslaw to maintain its crisp texture, as freezing can cause the vegetables to become mushy.
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Serving Tip: Serve chilled for the best experience; a quick stir before serving will refresh the creamy coating on the vegetables.
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Prep Ahead: Feel free to prepare the coleslaw a day prior to your event, letting it chill overnight for maximum flavor in your Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw!
Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw Variations
Feel free to explore delightful twists on this classic slaw that will tickle your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Use plant-based yogurt or mayonnaise to make a creamy dressing that skips the dairy entirely, perfect for those with lactose sensitivities.
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Spicy: For a kick, add minced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. The heat will balance beautifully with the cool creaminess.
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Red Cabbage Twist: Swap out the green cabbage for red cabbage to introduce a stunning color and slightly different flavor profile while keeping that lovely crunch.
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Tangy Boost: Experiment with different vinegars, like white wine or rice vinegar, to switch up the tanginess and elevate the flavors.
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Herb Addition: Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill can add a fresh note to your coleslaw, making each bite even more aromatic.
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Crunch Factor: Toss in some sunflower seeds or crushed nuts for an extra layer of texture that will surprise and delight.
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Fruit Touch: Incorporate diced apples or raisins for a hint of natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the tangy dressing.
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Asian Style: Add sliced carrots and a dash of sesame oil to give your coleslaw an Asian-inspired twist. Perfect alongside grilled meats!
For another delightful take on coleslaw, check out the Southern Coleslaw Crunchy for more flavor ideas! Enjoy crafting your perfect Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw!
Expert Tips for Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw
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Chill Time Matters: Allowing your Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw to chill for at least two hours enhances flavor and texture significantly.
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Uniform Chop: Ensure all vegetables are finely chopped or grated for consistent flavor and a classic coleslaw experience; larger pieces can lead to an unbalanced taste.
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Adjust for Tanginess: If you prefer a tangier coleslaw, consider slightly reducing the sugar and adding more apple cider vinegar to suit your palate.
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Buttermilk Substitute: If buttermilk isn’t on hand, mix extra milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. This will mimic buttermilk’s tanginess effectively!
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Taste and Adjust: Don’t forget to taste your coleslaw before serving. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or vinegar, ensuring it’s just right for your guests!
Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw Recipe FAQs
What type of cabbage should I use for the best coleslaw?
Absolutely! For the best Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw, I recommend using green cabbage. It provides that classic crunch and fresh taste you expect in coleslaw. If you want to add a bit of variety, you could mix in some red cabbage for color!
How long can I store leftovers, and how should I keep them?
You can store leftovers of your coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to recombine the dressing, as it might separate a bit over time.
Can I freeze coleslaw, and if so, how?
It’s best to avoid freezing coleslaw. Freezing can make the vegetables overly soft and mushy, ruining that delightful crunch. However, if you must freeze it, prepare the coleslaw without the dressing. Place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, and when you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and mix in the dressing before serving.
What should I do if my coleslaw is too sweet or tangy?
Very! If your coleslaw tastes a bit too sweet for your liking, you can balance it by adding more apple cider vinegar to increase the acidity. If it’s too tangy, try adding a little bit more sugar or a splash of cream to mellow the flavor. Adjusting these ingredients while tasting along the way will perfect your coleslaw.
Is this coleslaw safe for people with dietary restrictions?
This recipe is vegetarian-friendly and can be made dairy-free by substituting the buttermilk with a non-dairy milk mixed with a splash of lemon juice. For those with specific allergies, please be cautious of the mayonnaise and consider using a vegan or allergy-friendly alternative if needed!
Better Than KFC Copycat Coleslaw: Creamy Crunch Perfection
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by finely chopping the green cabbage, grating the carrot, and mincing the yellow onion. Combine in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, and whole milk until smooth. Add buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and mix well.
- Pour the dressing over the chopped vegetables and stir until well-coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least two hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Before serving, stir the coleslaw gently and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled.
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