KFC Copycat Coleslaw Recipe

Introduction

This KFC Copycat Coleslaw is a creamy, tangy side dish that perfectly complements fried chicken or any barbecue meal. Made with finely chopped cabbage and carrot, it’s dressed in a smooth, flavorful dressing that’s both simple and satisfying.

Ingredients

• ½ head cabbage, finely chopped (about 4 cups)
• ½ medium carrot, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons buttermilk
• 4¼ teaspoons white vinegar
• 1½ tablespoons onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons whole milk
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 4 teaspoons sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅜ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Using a food processor, pulse the cabbage until finely chopped, working in small batches to avoid pulverizing it. Repeat the same for the carrot. Transfer both to a medium bowl.
2. Step 2: In a separate small bowl, mix buttermilk, white vinegar, finely chopped onion, whole milk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Step 3: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Stir well. Don’t worry if it feels a bit dry initially, the cabbage will release moisture soon.
4. Step 4: Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly. Stir before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a crunchier texture, use half cabbage and half finely shredded green cabbage or add some finely chopped celery.
• Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.
• Add a pinch of celery seed for an authentic coleslaw flavor.

Storage

Store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving. It’s best enjoyed chilled and freshly made, but leftovers keep well and the flavors develop further after resting.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this coleslaw without a food processor?

Yes, you can finely chop the cabbage and carrot by hand using a sharp knife, though it will take a bit more time and effort to achieve the same fine texture.

How can I make the coleslaw creamier?

Increase the mayonnaise slightly or add a tablespoon of sour cream or extra buttermilk to give the dressing a richer, creamier consistency.

KFC Copycat Coleslaw Recipe

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4.4 from 59 reviews

This KFC Copycat Coleslaw recipe recreates the iconic creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet coleslaw served at KFC. Made with finely chopped cabbage and carrots tossed in a homemade dressing of mayonnaise, buttermilk, vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, and seasonings, it’s a perfect side dish that combines crisp freshness with rich flavor. Easy to prepare and great for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners, this coleslaw mimics the classic southern fast-food favorite.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• ½ head cabbage, finely chopped (about 4 cups)
• ½ medium carrot, finely chopped

Dressing

• 2 tablespoons buttermilk
• 4¼ teaspoons white vinegar
• 1½ tablespoons onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons whole milk
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 4 teaspoons sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅜ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

1. Chop the Vegetables: Using a food processor, pulse the cabbage until finely chopped into small squares, working in small batches to avoid pulverizing it. Repeat the same process for the carrot. Combine the chopped cabbage and carrot in a medium bowl.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together buttermilk, white vinegar, finely chopped onion, whole milk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Combine and Mix: Pour the dressing over the bowl containing the cabbage and carrot mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated. The mixture might initially seem dry, but the cabbage will release moisture over time.
4. Chill Before Serving: Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to absorb the dressing’s moisture. Stir once more before serving for best results.

Notes

• For best texture, avoid over-processing the cabbage so it retains a slight crunch instead of becoming mushy.
• If buttermilk is unavailable, substitute with 2 tablespoons milk plus 2 teaspoons lemon juice, allowed to sit for 5 minutes before use.
• Adjust sugar and salt to taste for a personal preference of sweetness or seasoning.
• This coleslaw tastes even better after resting overnight.
• Keep the coleslaw refrigerated and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Keywords: KFC coleslaw, copycat coleslaw recipe, creamy coleslaw, southern coleslaw, fast food side dish, easy coleslaw, homemade coleslaw