KFC Coleslaw Recipe

KFC’s coleslaw is one of the most iconic fast food side dishes, known for its creamy texture, tangy-sweet flavor, and perfect crunch. This copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe brings that same restaurant-style taste right into your kitchen. It’s the ultimate pairing for fried chicken, BBQ, or any summer cookout, and it’s incredibly easy to make at home with fresh, simple ingredients.

The secret lies in the finely chopped cabbage and carrot, mixed with a sweet and tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, and a touch of onion for a subtle bite. The buttermilk and whole milk give it that classic creamy texture, while a balance of acidity and sweetness mimics the exact flavor profile fans love.

Whether you’re making it for a potluck, picnic, or just a side for your favorite comfort meal, this coleslaw is guaranteed to be a hit. Best of all, it’s even better when made ahead, giving the flavors time to develop and meld. Once you see how easy and delicious it is, you may never want store-bought coleslaw again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

True Copycat Flavor

This recipe delivers that unmistakable KFC coleslaw taste—creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet.

Easy to Prepare

No fancy equipment needed—just mix, chill, and serve.

Budget-Friendly

Uses affordable ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or fridge.

Make-Ahead Friendly

Tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, making it perfect for parties or meal prep.

Versatile Side Dish

Pairs well with everything from fried foods to grilled meats and light salads.

Ingredients

• Onion
• Sugar
• Mayonnaise
• Buttermilk
• Whole milk
• White vinegar
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Coleslaw cabbage (fresh or pre-bagged mix)
• Carrot

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Reduce the sugar by half or use a sugar substitute like honey or maple syrup.
• Vegan Option: Use vegan mayonnaise and plant-based milk alternatives such as almond or soy milk.
• Add Herbs: Mix in chopped parsley or dill for an herbal twist.
• Spicy Coleslaw: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of hot sauce to the dressing.
• Crunchy Additions: Include sunflower seeds or chopped celery for added crunch and texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Finely dice the cabbage and shred the carrot if using fresh vegetables. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2

In a separate bowl, whisk together the onion, sugar, mayonnaise, buttermilk, milk, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.

Step 3

Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture.

Step 4

Toss everything together until the cabbage is fully coated in the dressing.

Step 5

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) to allow flavors to meld.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Dice the cabbage finely to mimic KFC’s signature texture.
• Use a box grater or food processor to shred carrots quickly.
• Chill for at least 2 hours before serving for the best flavor.
• Stir the coleslaw well before serving to redistribute the dressing.
• Adjust sweetness and acidity to your preference by tweaking the sugar and lemon juice.

How to Serve

Serve this coleslaw chilled as a side to classic comfort dishes like fried chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, BBQ ribs, or grilled burgers. It’s also excellent as a topping for tacos or sliders and makes a great picnic or potluck addition.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavor will improve with time, but the texture may soften slightly.

Freezing

Coleslaw does not freeze well due to its high dairy and fresh vegetable content. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Reheating

This dish is served cold, so no reheating is necessary. Stir before serving if stored for more than a day.

FAQs

1. Can I use bagged coleslaw mix?

Yes, using pre-shredded cabbage and carrot mix saves time and works perfectly for this recipe.

2. What type of mayonnaise should I use?

Full-fat mayonnaise gives the richest flavor, but light mayo can be used if desired.

3. Can I make this coleslaw the night before?

Absolutely—it’s even better after chilling overnight.

4. How finely should I chop the cabbage?

Aim for small, even pieces similar in size to rice for an authentic KFC texture.

5. Is there a substitute for buttermilk?

You can mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with ¼ cup milk as a quick substitute.

6. Can I use red cabbage?

Red cabbage can be used for color, but it will slightly alter the flavor and may bleed color into the dressing.

7. What’s the best way to shred carrots?

A box grater, julienne peeler, or food processor works well for shredding carrots finely.

8. Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste preference.

9. Is this coleslaw gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but double-check your mayonnaise to be sure.

10. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, celery, red bell pepper, or radishes can add flavor and crunch.

Conclusion

This KFC Coleslaw copycat recipe brings all the beloved flavors of the original right to your kitchen. With its creamy, tangy-sweet dressing and finely chopped cabbage mix, it’s the perfect side for almost any dish. Easy to prepare, affordable, and crowd-pleasing, this recipe is one you’ll turn to again and again. Whether for a summer BBQ, weeknight dinner, or holiday gathering, this coleslaw adds refreshing crunch and classic flavor every time.

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