KFC’s coleslaw is known for its perfect balance of creaminess, tanginess, and slight sweetness. This copycat recipe captures the restaurant-style slaw with finely chopped cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Taste – This recipe mimics the classic KFC coleslaw, with the same smooth texture and signature flavor.
- Simple Ingredients – You likely have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already.
- Great for Any Occasion – Perfect as a side dish for BBQs, fried chicken, sandwiches, or picnics.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – The flavors develop beautifully when chilled, making it an ideal prep-ahead dish.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- ¼ cup onion, finely minced
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and finely chop it using a food processor or knife. The texture should be finely minced, similar to KFC’s coleslaw.
- Grate the carrots and finely mince the onion. Mix them with the cabbage in a large bowl.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, milk, buttermilk, white vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Serve
- Give the coleslaw a final stir before serving. Enjoy chilled as a side dish with your favorite meals.
Variations
- Lighter Version – Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess.
- Sweeter Coleslaw – Add an extra tablespoon of sugar for a more pronounced sweetness.
- Extra Tangy – Increase the vinegar or lemon juice for a sharper taste.
- Spicy Twist – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4+ hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture becomes watery when thawed.
- Refreshing Leftovers: Stir well before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How close is this recipe to KFC’s coleslaw?
This recipe closely mimics KFC’s coleslaw, with its finely chopped texture, creamy dressing, and sweet-tangy balance.
Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix?
Yes, but for the most authentic texture, finely chop the mix before using.
Why does KFC coleslaw taste slightly sweet?
The sugar in the dressing provides a mild sweetness that balances the tangy vinegar and lemon juice.
What type of mayonnaise works best?
Regular full-fat mayonnaise works best to achieve the creamy consistency of KFC coleslaw.
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes! It’s best when chilled for several hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to develop.
Can I make this without buttermilk?
Yes, substitute buttermilk with an equal amount of milk plus a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
How do I prevent the coleslaw from becoming watery?
Salt the cabbage and let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing and drying, which helps draw out excess moisture.
Is this coleslaw gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check labels to be sure.
Can I use red cabbage instead?
Red cabbage can be used but will change the color and slightly alter the flavor.
What dishes pair well with this coleslaw?
It’s perfect with fried chicken, pulled pork, burgers, or as a refreshing side for BBQ meals.
Conclusion
This KFC-style coleslaw recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the restaurant’s famous side dish. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy this creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet coleslaw at home anytime. Let it chill for the best flavor, and serve it alongside your favorite meals!
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KFC-Style Coleslaw Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 slices 1x
Description
This KFC-style coleslaw recipe replicates the restaurant’s famous creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet slaw. Perfect as a BBQ side, it’s easy to make and best served chilled.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- ¼ cup onion, finely minced
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and finely chop it using a food processor or knife to achieve a finely minced texture.
- Grate the carrots and finely mince the onion.
- Mix cabbage, carrots, and onion in a large bowl.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, milk, buttermilk, white vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Serve
- Give the coleslaw a final stir before serving.
- Serve chilled as a side dish.
Notes
- Lighter Version – Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.
- Sweeter Coleslaw – Add an extra tablespoon of sugar.
- Extra Tangy – Increase the vinegar or lemon juice.
- Spicy Twist – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- chill time: 4 hours
- Category: Side Dish, salad
- Method: No-Cook, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: KFC coleslaw, copycat coleslaw, creamy coleslaw, tangy slaw, coleslaw recipe
