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Air Fryer KFC Coleslaw Recipe (Creamy & Crunchy Copycat)
Introduction
KFC’s iconic coleslaw is known for its creamy dressing, crisp texture, and perfectly balanced sweet-tangy flavor. Recreating it at home ensures freshness and lets you control every ingredient. While this version isn’t made in the air fryer, pairing it with air-fried chicken creates a healthier “fast food” experience—light, crunchy, and utterly satisfying.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Coleslaw traces its roots back to the Dutch term “koolsla” (meaning “cabbage salad”). Over time, it evolved into a staple side dish in American cuisine, particularly in Southern comfort food culture. KFC popularized their own creamy version in the mid-1900s, making it a must-have side with fried chicken worldwide. Today, coleslaw remains a symbol of communal dining—refreshing, nostalgic, and irresistibly creamy.
Ingredients Quantity
- 4 cups finely shredded green cabbage
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 2 tablespoons minced onion
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh preferred)
- 1½ tablespoons white vinegar
Optional Additions
- ½ teaspoon celery seed for extra flavor depth
- 1 tablespoon honey for natural sweetness
- A dash of Dijon mustard for tang
- Purple cabbage for color contrast
- Low-fat mayo or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
Tips for Success
- Finely chop the cabbage—KFC’s secret lies in uniform, tiny pieces that absorb the dressing evenly.
- Chill before serving—at least 2–4 hours for flavors to meld beautifully.
- Balance the tang—adjust sugar, vinegar, or lemon juice to your taste.
- Use fresh produce for that crisp, crunchy bite.
- Avoid watery coleslaw—pat vegetables dry before mixing in dressing.
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Finely shred cabbage and carrots. Mince onion and combine all in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, salt, pepper, mayonnaise, buttermilk, milk, lemon juice, and vinegar until smooth.
- Combine: Pour dressing over the vegetables and mix thoroughly until evenly coated.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) for best flavor.
- Serve: Give it a quick toss before serving cold alongside your favorite air-fried chicken or grilled dishes.
Description
This copycat KFC coleslaw is creamy, sweet, and tangy with a perfect crunch from the cabbage and carrots. It pairs beautifully with fried or air-fried chicken, grilled meats, or even on sandwiches. The result is a nostalgic, refreshing, and satisfying side dish that rivals the original restaurant version.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approximately 1 cup)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Sugar: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
(Values may vary based on ingredient brands and substitutions.)
Conclusion
Recreating KFC’s famous coleslaw at home is simple and rewarding. The creamy dressing, paired with crisp cabbage and carrots, delivers the perfect side dish for any meal. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and customizable to your taste preferences.
Recommendation
Pair your Air Fryer KFC Coleslaw with air-fried chicken tenders, baked beans, or corn on the cob for a wholesome, restaurant-quality meal. Make extra—it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This homemade version allows you to indulge in comfort food without guilt. Using fresh produce, lighter mayo, and pairing it with air-fried dishes means you get all the flavor with less fat. It’s the perfect balance between mindful eating and culinary enjoyment—a creamy, crunchy tribute to healthful indulgence.
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