Copycat KFC Coleslaw

When it comes to family dinners at home, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a meal that brings everyone together with smiles and happy bellies. One of our ultimate go-to side dishes is this KFC Copycat Coleslaw. It all started when we found ourselves craving the creamy, tangy crunch of coleslaw that pairs so perfectly with fried chicken, but without the need to grab takeout. I set out to recreate this classic, and after much tweaking and taste-testing with my crew, we’ve finally found “the one.”

I love this coleslaw because it’s unbelievably easy to throw together, and the results are always top-notch. Even my pickiest eater, who isn’t a fan of veggies, happily takes seconds! It’s the perfect blend of finely shredded cabbage, carrots, and a slightly sweet dressing that tastes even better when chilled overnight. This recipe has quickly become a staple for summer barbecues, weeknight meals, and even holiday gatherings. And trust me, once you make it, you’ll never look back!

Whether it’s alongside a crispy drumstick, sandwiched in a pulled pork slider, or served as a refreshing side dish, this coleslaw is always a crowd-pleaser. Seeing the kids and my husband rave about it makes all the effort worthwhile, and I can’t wait for you to try it and watch your family do the same.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

How far in advance can I make this coleslaw?
You can make this coleslaw up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight in the fridge enhances the flavors, making it even better the next day.

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
Absolutely! To save time, feel free to use a bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix. It makes prep even quicker and works just as well.

How long does this coleslaw stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it can last for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Can I make this recipe healthier?
Yes! You can substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayonnaise to cut down on calories without sacrificing the creamy texture.

Is there a way to add more flavor?
If you want a bolder taste, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of celery seed.

What You Need to Make KFC Copycat Coleslaw

Ingredients

1 medium head of green cabbage, finely shredded

2 large carrots, shredded

1 small onion, finely diced

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup whole milk

1/4 cup buttermilk

2 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Tools and Equipment

Large mixing bowl

Knife or food processor for shredding

Whisk for mixing the dressing

Airtight container for storage

How to Make KFC Copycat Coleslaw

Prepare the Vegetables: Shred the cabbage and carrots using a sharp knife, box grater, or food processor. Dice the onion finely. Place all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl.

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

Combine: Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables and toss well to coat everything evenly. Make sure all the cabbage and carrots are well-coated with the dressing.

Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for the flavors to meld together.

Serve and Enjoy: Give the coleslaw a good stir before serving, and enjoy alongside your favorite dishes!

Tips for Making the Best KFC Copycat Coleslaw

Chill Time is Key: For the best flavor, let the coleslaw sit overnight in the fridge. It allows the dressing to soak into the cabbage and carrots perfectly.

Shredding Tips: If you have a food processor, use it to save time on shredding the cabbage and carrots. It’s a lifesaver when you’re in a rush.

Balance the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet coleslaw, feel free to reduce the amount of sugar slightly. Taste and adjust to your preference.

Customize Your Crunch: Add diced apples or nuts for an extra crunch, or experiment with purple cabbage for a pop of color.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This recipe is a hit every time! My kids usually turn their noses up at coleslaw, but they went back for seconds. A new favorite!” — Jenna M.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Love how simple and delicious this is! It tasted just like KFC’s, but even fresher. Next time, I’ll try adding some celery seed.” — Tom R.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for our weekend barbecue. Everyone asked for the recipe! The dressing is just right, not too heavy or overly sweet.” — Rachel S.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great side dish for busy weeknights. I made it with pre-shredded cabbage, and it was a breeze. I might cut down on the sugar next time, though.” — Erica K.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I made this for our family reunion, and it was gone in minutes. Loved how creamy and flavorful it turned out!” — Mike L.

Printable Recipe

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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!

If you tried this KFC Copycat Coleslaw and loved it, don’t keep it to yourself! Snap a picture and share it on social media, tagging us so we can see your creations. There’s nothing more satisfying than spreading the joy of delicious, home-cooked food. Let your friends and family in on the secret to the best coleslaw ever. Happy cooking and sharing!