Chick-fil-A’s coleslaw, a beloved side dish that graced the fast-food chain’s menu for nearly 50 years, bid farewell to fans on January 17, 2016. This creamy, crunchy concoction had been a staple since the restaurant’s inception in 1946, originally under a different name until the rebranding to Chick-fil-A in 1967. The decision to remove coleslaw from the menu was met with widespread disappointment and even outrage from loyal customers, who took to social media to express their dismay.

In response to the outcry, Chick-fil-A made an unprecedented move by releasing the original recipe to the public. This gesture allowed devoted fans to recreate the iconic side dish in their own kitchens, ensuring that the beloved coleslaw would live on despite its absence from the restaurant’s menu.

The recipe itself is remarkably simple, consisting of just six ingredients: mayonnaise, white vinegar, granulated sugar, dry mustard, salt, and a mix of finely shredded cabbage and carrots. The beauty of this coleslaw lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures – creamy, tangy, sweet, and crunchy all at once.
While Chick-fil-A cited changing customer preferences and a desire for healthier options as reasons for discontinuing the coleslaw, many fans argued that its ability to complement the chain’s famous spicy chicken sandwich was unmatched. The company even produced a solemn one-minute video titled “An Ode to Cole Slaw” as a memorial to the departing side dish.

Despite its removal from Chick-fil-A’s menu, the coleslaw recipe continues to be cherished by home cooks. It’s versatile enough to pair with a variety of dishes, from fried chicken and barbecue to hot dogs and sandwiches. The recipe’s simplicity also makes it an ideal choice for backyard barbecues, potlucks, and family gatherings.

As we bid farewell to Chick-fil-A’s iconic coleslaw, we can take comfort in the fact that its legacy lives on through the shared recipe. This gesture from the company not only preserves a piece of fast-food history but also allows fans to continue enjoying this classic Southern side dish for years to come.

Copycat Chick-Fil-A Cole Slaw Recipe

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Ingredients

  

• 1 head green cabbage finely shredded (about 4 cups)
• 1/4 cup carrots finely shredded
• 2 tablespoons minced onion
• Dressing
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

 

• Shred cabbage and carrots finely using a sharp knife or food processor.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
• Pour dressing over cabbage mixture and mix thoroughly to coat evenly.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.
• Stir again before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Best if consumed within 2-3 days
Serves 4-6 people
Chilling time helps develop deeper flavor