Brian Nagele
Explore the unsung heroes of the KFC menu—the sides that take your chicken experience to new heights—and enter the world of finger-licking delight. The sides at KFC are more than just accompaniments; they’re delectable allies on your culinary adventure. From the classic mashed potatoes and gravy that conjure comfort in every bite to the zesty coleslaw that provides a crisp crunch. Come along for a delicious culinary tour of the fast food’s finest sides, as every dish narrates a tale of decadence and fulfillment. These sides will entice your taste senses and leave you wanting more, whether you’re a die-hard KFC fan or a newbie to the Colonel’s business.
Mac & Cheese
Mac & Cheese is pretty much always delicious, but KFC truly makes this side feel like something your mother or grandmother would make! The noodles are soft and plump, and the cheese sauce is so thick that it coats every piece perfectly. If you wanted, you could make a full meal out of a few sides of mac and cheese – it’s just that good! Plus, with simple ingredients like cheddar cheese and skim milk, you can feel good knowing it’s as close to “homemade” as you can get.
Mashed Potatoes & Gravy
It’s hard to go wrong with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, and it might be the perfect side dish for crispy fried chicken. The mashed potatoes at KFC are not only savory and buttery in flavor, but their soft, creamy, and fluffy texture will completely melt in your mouth. The gravy that comes as an addition to the mashed potatoes only enhances the flavor, perfectly complimenting this side order. Made out of the leftover chicken scraps and fat after frying, the gravy’s soupy consistency balances well with the fluffy mashed potatoes and gives it a super-rich flavor.
Cole Slaw
Disclaimer – I’m not usually a big fan of coleslaw. I was hesitant to order this side at KFC because of past experiences with other slaws. However, I decided to take one for the team and test it out with my eyes closed. Despite my dispassion for coleslaw, KFC’s was some of the best I’ve ever had. It was cool, crisp, and refreshing to have alongside my hot chicken. Made of chopped green cabbage, onions, and carrots, combined with mayo, sugar, and vinegar, this side at KFC’s is satisfying to order for those who are a fan of coleslaw. It might even cause you to become a coleslaw convert!
Biscuits
KFC is known for its fluffy, buttery biscuits, and it’s easy to understand why. I loved the crispy outer layer and cake-like interior. You can taste real butter in each bite, and they’re perfect for mopping up extra gravy from your mashed potatoes. I have had biscuits at other fast-food chains, but they were mostly a disappointment – not given the time or attention they deserved. Many of them are dry, clumpy, and hard. However, KFC biscuits are light, easy to eat, and addicting!
Secret Recipe Fries
Out of all the fast-food chains out there, KFC probably isn’t the first one you think of when it comes to French fries. But, that might change once you try their Secret Recipe Fries. They are warm and fresh, and the smell itself made my mouth water. Fries are some of my favorite snacks, and the signature spice mix KFC uses on theirs is unlike anything other chains are offering. Besides the spices, the best thing about these fries is the texture – soft on the inside and crunchy on the outside. They have the perfect amount of salt, and whether you have them on your own or dipped in ranch, it’s impossible not to go back for more. These fries threaten to give just about any burger chain out there a run for their money!
BBQ Baked Beans
Whenever I felt under the weather as a child, my mother would make me some delicious baked beans. When I opened the BBQ Baked Beans at KFC, nostalgia washed over me, and it reminded me of me resting on the floor of my childhood home, having a bowl of beans next to the fireplace. The beans smelled lovely and made me feel warm inside with every bite. They had a little kick to it, but the sugar in the beans from the barbecue sauce balanced that quite well. For me, the sauce-to-beans ratio was ideal, and the beans were cooked to perfection. If you’re a vegetarian or a vegan, this is one of the best KFC sides you can order. It offers a hearty, meaty taste without using any animal products!
Green Beans
I’ll admit, it’s a little hard to get excited about green beans as a side, but KFC is trying to change that – and, they’re doing a pretty good job! The Green Beans served at KFC are roughly chopped and served in a buttery/salty sauce that gently coats each bean. While green beans might not seem like the most exciting side dish when there are so many other rich options, they’re a nice change of pace. It’s good to have something to feel healthy about when most of KFC’s other sides aren’t exactly light in calories. Plus, their green beans are a fantastic option if you’re following a vegan diet!
Whole Kernel Corn
Although there are plenty of delicious and flavorful side orders at KFC, the Whole Kernel Corn is one of my favorites. Yes, corn might be a simple, unassuming side dish. But, KFC does it right. It is served in a small plastic cup with a lid on top to keep the corn juicy until you’re ready to eat. The corn is perfectly cooked, and it feels like each kernel is bursting with butter and salt. So, while you might not think corn is an exciting side, this particular dish will change your mind.
I tried the French fries for the first time & was very disappointed. They were tough & leathery as if they’d been overcooked under a heat lamp. Won’t buy again!
All the sides look good but the “biscuits” look like plain or cheese scones?
It’s the southern American version of a “biscuit” which is essentially a plain, soft scone.