This KFC Coleslaw Recipe is a delightful copycat version of the classic dish you love. With its perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and creaminess, itβs an ideal side for any meal. Whether youβre hosting a barbecue, picnic, or dinner party, this coleslaw will impress your guests. Its simple ingredients and quick prep time make it an accessible favorite for everyone.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: This coleslaw blends sweet and tangy notes perfectly, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Easy to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip this up in no time!
- Versatile Side Dish: Works beautifully with fried chicken, burgers, or as part of a picnic spread.
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare it the night before for enhanced flavors the next day.
- Customizable Ingredients: Add extra veggies or spices to suit your taste!
Tools and Preparation
To make the KFC Coleslaw Recipe, youβll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right tools can streamline your preparation and ensure perfect results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Grater
- Refrigerator-safe container
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: Perfect for achieving a smooth dressing by thoroughly blending liquids.
- Refrigerator-safe Container: Ensures your coleslaw stays fresh when chilling in the fridge.
Ingredients
This is an amazing copycat version of the famous KFC Coleslaw Recipe. Itβs sweet, a little tangy, and creamy! My all-time favorite coleslaw recipe!
For the Dressing
- 1 tablespoon onion (finely grated)
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup buttermilk (well shaken)
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
For the Slaw
- 8 cups or 1-16 ounce bag coleslaw cabbage (finely diced)
- 1/4 cup carrot (shredded; omit if youβre using bagged coleslaw mix)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the first nine ingredients until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Combine with Cabbage
Add the cabbage (8 cups) and carrot (1/4 cup) to the dressing. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
Step 3: Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Serve
Stir well before serving to recombine any separation that may occur during chilling. Enjoy your delicious KFC-style coleslaw!
How to Serve KFC Coleslaw Recipe
KFC Coleslaw is a versatile dish that pairs well with various meals. Whether youβre hosting a barbecue or enjoying a casual dinner, this coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to your plate.
With Fried Chicken
- Classic Combo: Serve alongside crispy fried chicken for the ultimate comfort food experience.
On Sandwiches
- Tasty Topping: Use as a topping on pulled pork or chicken sandwiches for added flavor and texture.
As a Salad Base
- Healthy Starter: Serve it as a base in salads, topped with grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal.
With Grilled Meat
- BBQ Sidekick: Perfectly complements grilled meats like burgers and ribs, enhancing the smoky flavors.
How to Perfect KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Creating the best KFC Coleslaw requires attention to detail. Follow these simple tips to ensure your coleslaw is always a hit.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cabbage and carrots for the best crunch and flavor.
- Chill Time: Allow the coleslaw to chill for at least four hours; overnight is even better for flavor development.
- Taste Test: Adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if you prefer a sweeter taste.
- Mix Well: Ensure all ingredients are well combined for even flavor distribution throughout the coleslaw.

Best Side Dishes for KFC Coleslaw Recipe
KFC Coleslaw pairs beautifully with numerous side dishes, making it an ideal addition to any meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread complements the tangy coleslaw perfectly.
- Baked Beans: The smokiness of baked beans balances nicely with the creamy texture of coleslaw.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch alongside your meal.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that pairs wonderfully with coleslaw.
- Grilled Vegetables: Freshly grilled vegetables add color and nutrition, enhancing your plate visually and flavor-wise.
- Fried Green Tomatoes: These tangy, crispy bites offer an amazing contrast to the sweet coleslaw.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making coleslaw can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of your KFC Coleslaw Recipe. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Using old cabbage: Fresh cabbage is key for a crunchy texture. Make sure to use cabbage that is crisp and vibrant.
- Not letting it chill: Skipping the chilling time can lead to a less flavorful dish. Always refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best taste.
- Overdressing: Adding too much dressing can make your coleslaw soggy. Start with the recommended amount and adjust according to your taste.
- Ignoring seasoning: Salt and pepper enhance flavors significantly. Donβt forget to include these essential seasonings in your KFC coleslaw recipe.
- Skipping the vinegar and lemon juice: These ingredients add necessary acidity. Omitting them will result in a bland coleslaw, so be sure to include both.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your KFC Coleslaw Recipe in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days.
- Ensure it is properly sealed to avoid any unwanted odors from other foods.
Freezing KFC Coleslaw Recipe
- Freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture of the cabbage.
- If you must freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container.
- Use within 1 month for best results, but expect changes in texture upon thawing.
Reheating KFC Coleslaw Recipe
- Oven: Not recommended, as coleslaw is best served cold.
- Microwave: If you need to warm it slightly, use low power for just a few seconds.
- Stovetop: Again, this method is not ideal for coleslaw; serve it chilled instead.

Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this KFC Coleslaw Recipe special?
This recipe captures the sweet and tangy flavors of the original KFC version while allowing you to make it at home with fresh ingredients.
How long should I chill my KFC Coleslaw Recipe?
For optimal flavor, itβs best to refrigerate your coleslaw for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Can I customize my KFC Coleslaw Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add ingredients like apples or raisins for extra sweetness or change up the veggies based on your preference.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This KFC Coleslaw Recipe stores well in the fridge and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep.
Final Thoughts
This KFC Coleslaw Recipe is both delicious and versatile, making it a perfect side dish for various meals. Its creamy texture combined with sweet and tangy flavors appeals to many palates. Feel free to customize it with your favorite additions or enjoy it as-is! Try this recipe today and bring a taste of KFC into your home kitchen.

KFC Coleslaw
- Author: Adeline
- Total Time: 34 minute
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of homemade KFC Coleslaw with this easy copycat recipe. Combining the perfect mix of sweetness, tanginess, and creaminess, this coleslaw is a fantastic side dish for barbecues, picnics, or family dinners. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a fresh and delicious coleslaw that will impress your guests and elevate any meal. Plus, itβs easily customizable to suit your taste! Serve alongside fried chicken or as a topping on sandwiches for added crunch and flavor. Enjoy the classic taste of KFC right in your home kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon onion (finely grated)
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup buttermilk (well shaken)
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups coleslaw cabbage (finely diced)
- 1/4 cup carrot (shredded)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the grated onion, sugar, mayonnaise, buttermilk, whole milk, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Add the finely diced cabbage and shredded carrot to the dressing. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Before serving, stir well to recombine any separation that may have occurred during chilling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: For added flavor depth, consider letting the coleslaw chill overnight. Customize by adding diced apples or raisins for a hint of sweetness. Ensure you use fresh vegetables for the best texture and flavor.