Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe

Name: Copycat KFC Coleslaw
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485898H8M43S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups finely chopped cabbage; ½ medium carrot (very finely chopped); 2 tablespoons onion (minced); ¼ cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons buttermilk; 4 teaspoons white vinegar; 2 tablespoons milk; 2 teaspoons granulated sugar; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Published: June 1, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 10 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for those busy days when you need a delicious side dish in a pinch.
Crowd-Pleaser: The familiar taste of KFC coleslaw will impress your family and friends, making it an ideal choice for gatherings.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or tanginess by modifying the sugar or vinegar to suit your taste.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh veggies ensures that each bite is packed with flavor and crunch.
Versatile Side Dish: This coleslaw pairs well with fried chicken, barbecued meats, or even as a topping on sandwiches.

Tools and Preparation

To successfully make this Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe, having the right tools will streamline the process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Food processor
Large mixing bowl
Small mixing bowl
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Food processor: A food processor makes chopping cabbage and carrots finely quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for better texture.
Large mixing bowl: This is essential for combining all your ingredients without making a mess.
Small mixing bowl: Perfect for mixing the dressing ingredients separately before adding them to the vegetables.
Whisk: Helps to blend the dressing smoothly for an even distribution of flavors.

Ingredients

A little sweet, a little tangy, and perfectly seasoned, this Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe requires just a handful of ingredients and 10 minutes of prep. The perfect homemade coleslaw for your next picnic or cookout.

4 cups finely chopped cabbage
½ medium carrot (very finely chopped)
2 tablespoons onion (minced)
2 tablespoons buttermilk
4 teaspoons white vinegar
2 tablespoons milk
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 teaspoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
4 teaspoons granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe

Step 1: Chop Your Vegetables

Use a food processor to chop the cabbage and carrot very finely.
Combine the chopped cabbage and carrot in a large mixing bowl; set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, white vinegar, milk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture.
Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Cover the coleslaw with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

By following these steps, you can enjoy your homemade Copycat KFC Coleslaw as a delightful side dish at your next meal!

How to Serve Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe

This Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe is versatile and pairs well with many dishes. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or a casual dinner, here are some fantastic serving ideas.

As a Side Dish

Serve this coleslaw alongside grilled chicken or ribs for a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors.

In a Sandwich

Layer coleslaw on pulled pork or fried chicken sandwiches to add a crunchy texture and tangy flavor.

With Tacos

Use coleslaw as a topping for fish or shrimp tacos; it adds brightness and crunch that complements the seafood beautifully.

On a Salad

Mix coleslaw into your green salads for an added crunch, or serve it atop taco salads for extra flair.

How to Perfect Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe

To ensure your coleslaw turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cabbage and carrots make all the difference in taste and texture. Look for crisp vegetables at the store.
Finely Chop Vegetables: For the best consistency, finely chop the cabbage and carrots. A food processor can help achieve this quickly.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, feel free to add more sugar to taste. Just remember, balance is key!
Chill Before Serving: Allowing your coleslaw to chill for at least 30 minutes helps meld the flavors together and improves the overall taste.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe

When serving this delicious coleslaw, consider pairing it with these side dishes that complement its flavors wonderfully.

Cornbread: A sweet and savory bread that pairs perfectly with creamy coleslaw.
Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus bring a smoky flavor that balances well with the coolness of coleslaw.
Baked Beans: Rich and hearty baked beans add protein and depth alongside your fresh coleslaw.
Potato Salad: This classic side dish offers another creamy option that harmonizes with the tanginess of coleslaw.
Macaroni Salad: A pasta salad brings comfort food vibes that work wonderfully with any picnic spread.
Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes provide a delightful crunch that complements the softness of coleslaw.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe, avoiding common mistakes can make a significant difference in flavor and texture.

Using coarse cuts: If the cabbage and carrot are chopped too coarsely, the coleslaw will have an uneven texture. Ensure you finely chop these ingredients for the best outcome.
Skipping the chilling step: Serving coleslaw immediately after mixing can lead to a less developed flavor. Always chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Eyeballing ingredients can throw off the balance of flavors. Use measuring tools to ensure accuracy, especially with vinegar and sugar.
Overdressing: Adding too much dressing can make the coleslaw soggy. Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more as needed for desired consistency.
Using low-quality mayonnaise: The mayonnaise is a key component in this recipe. Opt for a high-quality brand to enhance the overall taste of your coleslaw.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container.
It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Make sure to mix it again before serving, as it may separate over time.

Freezing Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe

Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in vegetables.
If you must freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Reheating Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm coleslaw in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Place coleslaw in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat while stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does this Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe last?

It lasts about 3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I customize my Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like apples or raisins for extra sweetness or jalapeños for some heat.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can easily substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.

Is this coleslaw recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep! Just store it in an airtight container and enjoy it throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can customize it with different ingredients or spices according to your preference. Give it a try at your next gathering; it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!