KFC Coleslaw Recipe: The Perfect Copycat You Can Make at Home

If you’re a fan of KFC’s famous coleslaw, you’re in for a treat! This KFC Coleslaw Recipe is as close as you can get to the original—and you can make it right in your own kitchen. With its creamy, tangy, and sweet flavor, it’s the perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or anytime you want a taste of your favorite fast-food chain.

This easy homemade version uses simple ingredients you probably already have, and the result? A coleslaw that’s just as crisp, refreshing, and flavorful as the one from KFC. Let’s dive right in and make it!

Why You’ll Love This KFC Coleslaw Recipe

I know, there’s something about KFC’s coleslaw that makes it hard to resist. The first time I tried recreating it, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. Here’s why you’re going to love this recipe:

• It’s delightfully creamy and tangy, just like the original.
• Minimal ingredients required, most of which you probably have in your pantry.
• Perfect side dish for summer BBQs, fried chicken, or pulled pork sandwiches.
• Make-ahead friendly, and the flavor gets better the longer it sits in the fridge.

What Does It Taste Like?

This copycat KFC coleslaw has a perfect balance of flavors. The combination of mayonnaise, buttermilk, and lemon juice brings a creamy and tangy base, while the sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness. The finely chopped cabbage and carrots offer a refreshing crunch, and the minced onions give it a slight sharpness without overpowering the dish.

In other words—perfection in every bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of everything you need to make this delicious KFC coleslaw at home:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise – The base of the dressing, making it creamy and smooth.
• 1/3 cup sugar – Adds that signature sweetness.
• 1/4 cup milk – Helps to thin out the dressing and keep it light.
• 1/4 cup buttermilk – Adds a slight tang that complements the creamy dressing.
• 2 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice – Brightens up the flavors.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar – Adds another layer of tangy goodness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper – For a subtle touch of spice.
• 8 cups finely chopped cabbage – About one medium head of cabbage. It should be finely chopped, almost rice-sized.
• 1/4 cup shredded carrot – Adds color and sweetness to the slaw.
• 2 tablespoons minced onion – Adds a bit of sharpness and depth of flavor.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Sharp knife or food processor (to finely chop the cabbage and carrots)
• Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make KFC Coleslaw at Home

Ready to recreate this classic dish? Follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Start by finely chopping your cabbage and carrots. They should be cut into small, rice-like pieces to match KFC’s signature texture. You can do this by hand using a sharp knife, but a food processor makes the job quicker and easier. Once chopped, place the cabbage and carrots in a large bowl. Mince the onion and add it to the mix.

2. Make the Dressing

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, milk, buttermilk, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

3. Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the chopped cabbage, carrots, and onions. Stir everything together until well coated. Make sure the vegetables are evenly covered in the creamy dressing.

4. Chill and Serve

Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and gives the coleslaw that authentic KFC taste. If you can let it sit overnight, it’ll be even better! Stir again before serving and enjoy.

What to Serve with KFC Coleslaw

KFC coleslaw is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes. Here are some serving ideas to inspire you:

• Fried Chicken – Of course, this classic pairing never fails!
• Pulled Pork Sandwiches – The tangy coleslaw adds the perfect crunch.
• BBQ Ribs – A refreshing contrast to the rich and smoky ribs.
• Grilled Fish or Shrimp Tacos – The creamy coleslaw gives a cooling effect to spicy tacos.
• Burgers or Hot Dogs – Add a spoonful on top for a refreshing crunch.

Tips for Making the Best KFC Coleslaw

To ensure your coleslaw turns out just right every time, here are a few handy tips:

• Chop your veggies finely: The secret to KFC’s coleslaw lies in its texture. Use a sharp knife or food processor to get the cabbage and carrots chopped into tiny pieces—just a bit bigger than grains of rice.
• Let it chill: While it’s tempting to dive right in, letting the coleslaw rest in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or better yet, overnight) allows the flavors to really come together.
• Adjust the seasoning: Depending on your taste preferences, you might want to tweak the amount of sugar, salt, or lemon juice.

Storage Instructions

KFC coleslaw keeps very well in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve with time, so feel free to make it ahead of time!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this coleslaw without buttermilk?

Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can substitute it by mixing 1/4 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before using.

Can I add other vegetables?

Sure! If you want to add a twist to this recipe, you can include red cabbage or even some bell peppers for color and crunch. Just make sure they’re finely chopped.

Is this coleslaw gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the labels of your mayonnaise and buttermilk if you’re particularly sensitive to gluten.

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy and authentic KFC coleslaw recipe you can make at home. It’s creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet, making it the ultimate side dish for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or just craving that signature KFC flavor, this coleslaw is bound to impress.

Want more recipes like this? Try pairing it with my mouthwatering homemade fried chicken or slow-cooked pulled pork for the perfect meal. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments and upload a photo of your homemade coleslaw!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 1g

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