kentucky fried chicken cole slaw recipe
The Best kentucky fried chicken cole slaw recipe
Oh, I just love this Kentucky Fried Chicken Cole Slaw recipe—it’s one of those simple, foolproof dishes that always brings a smile to my face and the kids’ too. There’s something about the crispy, golden fried chicken paired with that tangy, refreshing slaw that just feels like comfort food without being heavy. My family always reaches for this when we’re hosting a game night or just having a casual dinner around the table. The kids swear by it because it’s not too sweet, not too greasy, and it’s got that perfect balance of textures—crunchy, creamy, and juicy all at once. It’s like a little taste of home, but made fresh every time.
I’ll admit, I’m a little biased because I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it never fails to impress. It’s not just a side dish—it’s a whole meal in itself, especially when you serve it with a big bowl of mac and cheese or some buttermilk fried chicken. The slaw itself is so versatile; you can eat it alone if you’re in a hurry or pair it with anything from burgers to grilled chicken. And the best part? It’s actually pretty healthy for what it is—fiber from the cabbage, protein from the chicken, and healthy fats from the dressing. My kids don’t even realize how good it is for them because it tastes so good. Plus, it’s easy to double or triple the recipe if you’re feeding a crowd, which is great for potlucks or family gatherings. No one ever leaves hungry when we serve this around here.
Kentucky Fried Chicken Cole Slaw
A classic combination of crispy fried chicken and tangy coleslaw, perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal. This recipe captures the essence of Southern comfort food with a balance of savory and refreshing flavors.
🥘Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp celery seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Mix flour, salt, pepper, and paprika in a shallow dish.
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2 Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Dip each piece into the flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
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3 Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken pieces for 6-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
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4 While chicken cooks, shred cabbage and carrots using kitchen shears or a sharp knife. Combine in a large bowl.
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5 In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, celery seeds, salt, and pepper.
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6 Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
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7 Once chicken is cooked, place it on a serving platter. Arrange the coleslaw on top or serve alongside.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Kitchen shears
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Oven
- Mixing spoon
- Whisk
- Colander
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Kentucky Fried Chicken Cole Slaw Works
This Kentucky Fried Chicken cole slaw recipe is always a solid choice for family gatherings because it balances crispy, savory chicken with a refreshing, tangy slaw that makes every bite feel complete. Whether you’re hosting a casual cookout or a bigger meal, this combo keeps things simple yet satisfying—no one leaves hungry, and it’s easy to double up if you have extra guests. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works well with all sorts of sides, so you can always have a go-to side dish ready whenever you need it.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Kentucky Fried Chicken Cole Slaw
What is the key difference between KFC’s original cole slaw and the variations served at their restaurants?
KFC’s original cole slaw recipe is made with a tangy, creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sugar, while some regional variations (like the “Kentucky Fried Chicken Sauce” or “Sweet & Tangy” slaw) may include additional ingredients like mustard, ketchup, or a sweeter dressing. The original is typically lighter and less sweet, whereas modern versions sometimes incorporate a deeper flavor profile.
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Why does KFC’s cole slaw sometimes taste different from what’s in their promotional recipes online?
The taste can vary due to several factors, including: – Regional adjustments – Some locations may tweak the recipe slightly (e.g., more vinegar in the South, extra sweetness in the Midwest). – Ingredient sourcing – Freshness of cabbage, carrots, and dressing components can change over time. – Restaurant-specific tweaks – Staff may add subtle variations like a pinch of celery salt or a dash of Worcestershire sauce. – Recipe updates – KFC occasionally revises formulas for consistency or flavor improvements.
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What’s the secret ingredient in KFC’s original cole slaw dressing that makes it so creamy and flavorful?
The secret lies in a balanced blend of mayonnaise, vinegar (like apple cider or white wine vinegar), and a touch of sugar or honey—this combination creates a smooth, slightly tangy, and slightly sweet dressing. Some versions also include a small amount of mustard powder for depth, though the classic recipe is known for its simplicity. The key is the ratio of mayo to vinegar (often 3:1) and a slight heat from a tiny bit of hot sauce or cayenne in some iterations.
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Can I make KFC-style cole slaw at home without using the exact KFC recipe, and if so, what’s the best way to replicate it?
Absolutely! Here’s a foolproof homemade version: Ingredients: – 3 cups shredded green cabbage – 1 cup shredded carrots – ½ cup mayonnaise (KFC-style: light mayo works best) – 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar) – 1 tbsp sugar or honey – 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for tang) – ½ tsp celery salt (or salt + a pinch of black pepper) – ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional, for depth) – 1 tbsp lemon juice (brightens flavor)
Method: 1. Shred the cabbage and carrots finely (or use a food processor). 2. Mix all dressing ingredients in a bowl and let sit for 10 minutes to emulsify. 3. Toss the veggies with the dressing until evenly coated. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best texture. Tip: For extra crispness, add a pinch of cornstarch to the cabbage before shredding.
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How long does KFC’s cole slaw last in the fridge, and how should I store it properly?
Homemade KFC-style cole slaw typically lasts 4–5 days in the fridge when stored properly. To extend freshness: – Store in an airtight container (glass or BPA-free plastic) in the coldest part of the fridge. – If the dressing separates, stir before serving. – For longer storage (up to 1 week), add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to the dressing to prevent spoilage. – Note: The slaw may soften slightly over time, but the flavor remains great. Discard if it develops an off smell or slimy texture.
