Name: KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 cups finely chopped green cabbage (about 1 medium head); 1/4 cup shredded carrot (about 1 small carrot); 2 tablespoons minced onion; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup whole milk; 1/4 cup buttermilk; 2 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh is best); 1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Jump to Recipe·5 from 23 reviews

Get ready to wow your tastebuds (and everyone at your table) with this outrageously delicious KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe! If you crave that unmistakable creamy, tangy, sweet crunch famous at picnics and fried chicken joints alike, you’re in for a treat. With a handful of pantry basics, a bit of chopping, and a short chill, you’ll whip up a slaw that embodies everything you love about the original – only fresher, brighter, and guaranteed to disappear fast.

KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s truly amazing how a few kitchen staples can come together so perfectly in this KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe. Each ingredient isn’t just along for the ride—they’re crucial for nailing that classic texture, flavor, and color everyone recognizes. So, let’s talk about the all-stars that make this slaw shine!

Green cabbage (8 cups finely chopped): The heart of our recipe, cabbage brings crunch, body, and soaks up all that delectable dressing beautifully.
Carrot (1/4 cup shredded): Brightens the bowl with color and a subtle sweetness—don’t skip it!
Minced onion (2 tablespoons): A little goes a long way, adding a gentle bite and depth to every forkful.
Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): The creamy backbone; it’s what makes the dressing so rich and luscious.
Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Don’t worry, it’s just enough to balance the tang—you’ll taste that signature sweet note!
Whole milk (1/4 cup): Helps achieve just the right pourable, silky texture for the dressing.
Buttermilk (1/4 cup): Adds an irresistible tang and that authentic KFC zing; truly a must for the copycat effect.
Lemon juice (2 1/2 tablespoons, fresh): Brightens up all the flavors and gives the slaw a fresh lift.
White vinegar (1 1/2 tablespoons): Complements the lemon and keeps things punchy and vibrant.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances every flavor and keeps your tastebuds interested.
Ground black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A touch of mellow heat that rounds everything out.

How to Make KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by prepping your veggies to mimic that unmistakable fine KFC-style texture. Finely chop the cabbage and mince the onion—grab a food processor or put your best knife skills to work! Shred the carrot using a grater or processor attachment. Toss everything together in a large mixing bowl, ensuring a uniform mixture and the perfect foundation for absorbing the creamy dressing.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, whole milk, buttermilk, fresh lemon juice, white vinegar, salt, and pepper. The mixture will become thick, smooth, and luxuriously creamy—exactly what you want! Don’t rush this part; whisking thoroughly ensures every spoonful is perfectly sweet, tangy, and well blended.

Step 3: Combine and Toss

Pour your luscious dressing over the veggie mixture and stir with gusto! You want every shred of cabbage and every carrot ribbon coated in that dreamy dressing. Make sure there are no pockets of undressed veggies—this is what gives the KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe its crave-worthy uniformity and flavor punch.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl (plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid works great) and place in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and softens the crunch just the right amount, making your coleslaw taste just like the legendary side you love.

How to Serve KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe

Garnishes

While this coleslaw is perfection on its own, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper, a scattering of extra shredded carrots, or even a pinch of parsley can add a touch of color and flavor right before serving. Garnishing transforms an everyday side into a celebration-worthy bowl!

Side Dishes

This KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe plays well with so many dishes. Pair it with crispy fried chicken, saucy barbecue ribs, or slide it next to fried fish. It’s also magical piled onto spicy sandwiches or with classic burgers—the coolness balances out bold, rich main courses beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your coleslaw in a classic family-style bowl, spoon into individual mason jars for picnics, or stuff it straight into sandwiches for an irresistible crunchy layer. For parties, offer mini coleslaw sliders or serve atop tiny lettuce leaves for a fresh, fun appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply cover tightly and give it a good stir before serving, as some settling and separation is normal. Over time, the flavors deepen and the slaw becomes even more flavorful.

Freezing

Unfortunately, coleslaw with mayo-based dressing doesn’t freeze well—the creamy texture breaks down and veggies lose their crunch. It’s best to enjoy this recipe fresh or within a few days, for maximum flavor and that irresistible texture.

Reheating

Since this is a cold salad, reheating isn’t necessary—or recommended! For best results, keep refrigerated until ready to serve, and simply stir to redistribute the dressing if it’s been sitting for a bit.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage mix?

Absolutely! Bagged coleslaw mixes are a super convenient swap if you’re in a hurry. Just be sure to chop it a bit finer to mimic the classic KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe texture. The result will be nearly as good as prepping your own fresh cabbage.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No problem—just add a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to regular milk, let it sit for 5–10 minutes, and you’ve got a quick buttermilk substitute. That tangy richness is key to nailing the flavor, so this trick works wonders!

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Of course! If you prefer a less sweet slaw, scale back the sugar a bit and taste as you go. Some folks love an extra-tangy bite, while others crave that iconic sweetness; the beauty of the KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe is that it’s super customizable.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe uses naturally gluten-free ingredients! Just double-check your mayonnaise and vinegar labels to be certain, and you’ve got a gluten-free classic side dish for everyone to enjoy.

Can I make this vegan or dairy-free?

Definitely. Use your favorite vegan mayonnaise and dairy-free milk with a splash of lemon juice to mimic buttermilk. The KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe works beautifully with plant-based swaps—just be sure to taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for the perfect picnic side or the ultimate nostalgic treat, this KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe checks every box. It’s fresh, crisp, tangy, and pure comfort with every bite. Give it a try—there’s a good chance it’ll be your go-to coleslaw from now on!

KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need