How Long Does KFC Coleslaw Last in the Fridge?

Easy coleslaw recipe in a plastic storage bowl prepared and ready to eat.

If you’re a fan of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), you’re probably familiar with their iconic coleslaw. This creamy, crunchy, and tangy side dish has been a favorite menu item for decades.

But what happens when you have leftovers? How long does KFC coleslaw last in the fridge? This guide will provide everything you need to know, including tips for storage, how to tell if it’s gone bad, and how you can even make your own KFC coleslaw copycat recipe at home.

Need a quick homemade coleslaw recipe? Try our Easy Coleslaw Recipe made with Duke’s Mayonaisse. It always gets great reviews!

Easy Coleslaw in Storage Container
Easy Coleslaw

How Long Does KFC Coleslaw Last in the Fridge?

The shelf life of KFC’s coleslaw depends on how it is stored. Be sure to check out our post on “How Long Is Food Good For in the Fridge?” for more food storage information.

When stored properly in an airtight container, KFC coleslaw can last for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. This time frame is similar to most homemade coleslaw recipes or other restaurant copycat recipes. It’s important to refrigerate it as soon as possible to prevent bacterial growth.

Best Way to Store KFC Coleslaw

  • Use an airtight container: Transfer the coleslaw from its original container to an airtight container to extend its freshness.
  • Refrigerate immediately: Do not leave KFC coleslaw at room temperature for more than two hours, as this increases the risk of bacterial growth.
  • Small batches are best: If you’re serving it over several meals, only take out as much as you’ll eat and return the rest to the fridge promptly.

Signs That KFC Coleslaw Has Gone Bad

Not sure if your coleslaw is still good? Here’s how to tell:

  • Change in smell: If the tangy dressing smells sour or off, it’s a sign that it’s no longer safe to eat.
  • Texture change: Slimy or overly mushy cabbage is a sign of spoilage.
  • Color shift: Fresh KFC’s version of coleslaw is white and green, but if it’s turning brown or gray, it’s time to toss it.

How to Make KFC Coleslaw at Home

If you’re craving that classic creamy coleslaw taste, you can make your own version at home with this simple recipe. This homemade KFC coleslaw copycat recipe uses simple ingredients you can find at your local grocery store.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head of cabbage (or use a bag of pre-shredded coleslaw)
  • 1 large carrot, shredded (or pre-made carrot mixture)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup Miracle Whip mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons tarragon vinegar (for an extra tangy kick)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrot mixture, and chopped onion.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Miracle Whip, buttermilk, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, tarragon vinegar, sugar, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage salad and mix well with a slotted spoon until all the cabbage is coated.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld. This homemade coleslaw tastes best after chilling overnight.

This copycat KFC coleslaw recipe is one of the best coleslaw recipes you’ll find. The tangy dressing combined with the crunch of shredded cabbage and carrot mixture makes it the perfect side dish for pork tenderloin, crispy fried chicken, pork chops, air fryer chicken tenders, or even fish tacos.

Why People Love KFC’s Coleslaw

KFC’s version of coleslaw is famous for its balance of tangy, sweet, and creamy flavors. It’s made with fresh, shredded cabbage and a buttermilk dressing that’s hard to replicate. But the good news is, with the right combination of simple ingredients, you can recreate the real thing at home. This easy recipe is great for summer barbecues, hot dogs, or as a side dish for chicken dishes.

Other Great Coleslaw Recipes

While the original KFC coleslaw recipe is a fan favorite, there are many other great coleslaw recipes to try. Variations include:

  • Crunchy coleslaw: Add nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
  • Classic coleslaw recipe: Stick to white and green cabbage, carrots, and a creamy mayonnaise dressing.
  • Buttermilk dressing coleslaw: Swap out the Miracle Whip for a tangy buttermilk dressing.
  • Restaurant chain-style coleslaw: Many fast food chains have their own version of coleslaw that you can recreate at home.

How Long Does Homemade Coleslaw Last in the Fridge?

If you’ve made a batch of coleslaw at home, its shelf life is about the same as KFC’s coleslaw. Homemade coleslaw lasts for 3 to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge. If you’ve made a large batch of coleslaw, it’s best to portion it out and only take out what you need to avoid exposing the rest to air and bacteria.

Why Proper Storage Matters

Storing your coleslaw properly is essential for food safety. Bacterial growth can occur if coleslaw is left at room temperature for too long. To ensure your coleslaw’s freshness and prevent foodborne illnesses, always store it in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated.

FAQ

Q: Can I freeze KFC coleslaw? A: No, freezing coleslaw is not recommended because the cabbage will become mushy and lose its texture.

Q: How do I know if my KFC coleslaw is still good? A: Look for signs of spoilage like a sour smell, mushy texture, or discoloration.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftover coleslaw? A: Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Conclusion

Knowing how long KFC coleslaw lasts in the fridge is crucial for both taste and safety. When stored properly in an airtight container, you can enjoy it for up to 5 days.

If you’re craving that famous flavor, try making your own KFC coleslaw copycat recipe at home with simple ingredients like cabbage, Miracle Whip, and buttermilk.

Whether you’re serving it with crispy fried chicken, pork chops, or fish tacos, coleslaw is the perfect side dish for any meal. From summer BBQs to chicken dinners, this iconic coleslaw remains one of the best flavor-packed sides. Enjoy it fresh and safe with proper storage and handling.

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