The Best Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe: Creamy, Tangy, and Irresistibly Delicious
This creamy Copycat KFC Cole Slaw recipe is quite possibly the perfect side dish, bringing the nostalgic taste of your favorite fast-food classic right into your home kitchen. You are not going to believe how incredibly easy it is to recreate this beloved restaurant favorite! Featuring finely shredded green cabbage and carrots generously tossed with that notoriously irresistible KFC Coleslaw Dressing, this homemade version is guaranteed to be the star of your backyard barbecues, summer picnics, and family gatherings. Prepare for rave reviews and empty bowls every time you serve it!
There’s no denying the widespread appeal of Kentucky Fried Chicken. For many of us, it evokes cherished childhood memories of family get-togethers, lively potlucks, and carefree picnics where the iconic bucket of extra crispy chicken, fluffy mashed potatoes, warm biscuits, and, of course, that distinctively delicious coleslaw were always present. It was, without a doubt, my absolute favorite coleslaw recipe, and a staple that defined many happy occasions.
I’ll readily admit it: I have always had a deep affection for Kentucky Fried Chicken. For years, I embarked on a culinary quest to perfect the chicken recipe, and while that took some serious dedication, I’m thrilled to announce that after countless attempts and careful recipe adjustments, I’ve finally cracked the code for both the legendary coleslaw and the KFC copycat chicken recipe. They’re now just how I like them – authentic, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.
Looking to elevate your meal even further with some other fantastic side dishes? You absolutely must try my hearty Meat Lovers Baked Beans, brimming with savory flavors, or my delightfully sweet and tangy Dr. Pepper BBQ Pork Sandwiches. They make excellent companions to this coleslaw!
The Ultimate KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe
This particular coleslaw recipe holds a special place in our family traditions. We always make a big batch of it when my husband and sons return from their annual fishing trip. It’s the perfect, refreshing contrast to a hearty Walleye fish fry, making it an indispensable part of our celebration. The cool, crisp texture and vibrant flavor cut through the richness of fried fish beautifully, making every bite a delight.
However, don’t let its popularity with our fish fries fool you into thinking this delicious coleslaw recipe is limited to just one pairing. While fried chicken is certainly the most obvious and quintessential main course companion, this versatile dish shines brightly alongside a myriad of other meals. It’s an exceptional side salad for any picnic or summer potluck, complementing anything you pull off the grill – be it juicy burgers, savory sausages, or tender BBQ ribs. Its creamy, tangy profile enhances almost any savory dish, making it a crowd-pleaser no matter the occasion.
It’s genuinely a showstopper at any potluck table, consistently being one of the first dishes to be completely devoured. Its undeniable appeal ensures there are rarely any leftovers, which is always a sign of a truly outstanding recipe!
What Makes KFC’s Coleslaw So Uniquely Delicious?
Kentucky Fried Chicken has built its culinary empire not just on its famously crispy fried chicken, but also on its classic complementary sides: the comforting mashed potatoes and the distinctively crunchy and flavorful coleslaw. The coleslaw, in particular, boasts a very special and instantly recognizable tangy yet sweet flavor profile that sets it apart from all other coleslaws. It’s a harmonious balance that keeps you coming back for more.
My secret to replicating this amazing cole slaw lies in a careful combination of key ingredients that work together to create that signature taste. The foundation of the dressing is a rich, creamy mayonnaise, which provides the essential smooth texture. This is beautifully balanced by the bright, tartness of apple cider vinegar, which offers a more nuanced tang compared to regular white vinegar, and the zesty kick of fresh lemon juice, which adds another layer of vibrant acidity. The true richness and depth in my copycat dish come from the indispensable combination of mayonnaise and tangy buttermilk. This side dish just wouldn’t be complete without the unique tang and silky texture that buttermilk provides! If you find yourself wanting to make this recipe but don’t have buttermilk on hand, there’s absolutely no need to skip out on this important ingredient. You can easily make your own at home in just about 5 minutes with this simple and effective buttermilk substitute recipe!
This fantastic side dish is absolutely perfect for all your summer picnics and outdoor BBQs, offering a refreshing counterpoint to grilled meats and other rich foods. However, its appeal isn’t limited to warm weather; it’s so versatile and enjoyable that it can truly be savored all year long. Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian-friendly, making it a wonderful option for diverse dietary needs and preferences!
Craving even more flavorful and easy-to-make side dish recipes? Don’t miss out on my refreshing BLT Pasta Salad, a vibrant and satisfying dish, or my incredibly smooth and comforting The Best Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes recipe, perfect for any meal!
Essential Ingredients for Your Copycat KFC Cole Slaw
One of the many wonderful things about this recipe is that it relies on a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that you likely already have readily available in your refrigerator or pantry. This means less shopping and more time enjoying! For the exact measurements of each component, please be sure to scroll down to the comprehensive recipe card below.
For the Signature Kentucky Fried Chicken Cole Slaw Dressing:
- Granulated Sugar – This is vital for providing the classic sweet taste that perfectly balances the tangy elements of the coleslaw dressing. It’s what gives it that iconic, slightly sweet edge.
- Mayonnaise – For the ultimate creamy and rich dressing, it’s crucial to use full-fat mayonnaise. Do not substitute with Miracle Whip or any light versions, as they will alter the texture and flavor profile significantly.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – While some recipes might suggest white vinegar, I highly recommend apple cider vinegar. It offers a more complex, fruity tang and is also lauded for its potential health benefits, adding an extra dimension to the dressing.
- Lemon Juice – Fresh or bottled, lemon juice introduces a bright, zesty tang that elevates the entire dressing, making it more vibrant and refreshing.
- Heavy Cream – A key ingredient for achieving that luxurious, thick creaminess that is characteristic of the authentic KFC coleslaw dressing. It adds richness and a smooth mouthfeel.
- Buttermilk – Essential for its unique tartness and for contributing to the distinctive silky texture of the dressing. If you only need a small quantity and don’t have it on hand, you can easily make your own buttermilk substitute in about 5 minutes using milk and lemon juice or vinegar.
- Dry Minced Onion – This provides a subtle, savory onion flavor without the sharpness or overpowering bite that raw fresh onion might bring. It integrates smoothly into the dressing.
- Celery Seed – While optional, I strongly encourage adding this. It imparts a distinctive, slightly savory and earthy note that is a hallmark of the classic KFC coleslaw dressing.
- Sea Salt & Black Pepper – These essential seasonings are crucial for enhancing all the other flavors and ensuring the dressing is perfectly balanced. Adjust to your personal taste.
For the Coleslaw Base:
- Green Cabbage – The backbone of any good coleslaw. It needs to be shredded finely for that authentic, delicate KFC texture. This can be done efficiently with a hand grater or a food processor.
- Carrot – Adds a touch of sweetness, vibrant color, and a pleasant crunch. Like the cabbage, it should be shredded finely to integrate seamlessly into the slaw.
Crafting Coleslaw Just Like Colonel Sanders: A Step-by-Step Guide
My recipe for Copycat KFC Cole Slaw is truly incredibly easy and straightforward to prepare! With only a handful of readily available ingredients, you’ll be able to whip up this homemade coleslaw featuring that famous, irresistible KFC coleslaw dressing in no time. It will be perfectly ready to serve as a refreshing and popular side dish at all your upcoming backyard barbecues, summer get-togethers, and family gatherings, impressing everyone with its authentic taste!
For even more precise, detailed steps and ingredient quantities, please remember to scroll down to the printable recipe card section further down the page.
Combine the Dressing Ingredients
Begin by adding all of the dressing ingredients – that’s the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, heavy cream, buttermilk, dry minced onion, celery seed, sea salt, and black pepper – into a small jar that comes with a tight-fitting lid. Once all ingredients are in, securely close the lid and give the jar a really good, vigorous shake. This ensures all the flavors are thoroughly combined and emulsified. Set the jar aside while you prepare your vegetables.
Prep Your Vegetables
The texture of KFC coleslaw is key, and it all starts with finely shredded vegetables. Using either a hand grater or your food processor, finely shred both the green cabbage and the carrots. The goal here is a very fine, almost confetti-like shred, not large chunks. This delicate shred allows the vegetables to absorb the dressing more effectively and contributes to that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. Once shredded, transfer the prepared cabbage and carrot into a large mixing bowl, making sure there’s plenty of room for tossing.
Toss Thoroughly
Now for the magic! Pour the perfectly mixed dressing evenly over the top of the shredded cabbage and carrots in the large mixing bowl. Using a pair of tongs or two large spoons, give the coleslaw a good, thorough toss. Ensure that every single strand of cabbage and carrot is beautifully coated in the creamy, tangy dressing. This step is crucial for distributing the flavor evenly throughout the entire batch.
Refrigerate for Flavor Development
Once tossed, cover the bowl tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. This is a non-negotiable step: place the coleslaw in the fridge for a minimum of 4 hours. Ideally, for the very best flavor and texture, let it chill for 6 hours or even overnight. This extended chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, deepen, and truly develop, while also giving the cabbage a chance to soften slightly, achieving that perfect KFC-like consistency. Do not skip this step!
Serve Cold and Enjoy
After its essential chilling period, give the coleslaw one final gentle stir. Serve it directly from the bowl, ensuring it’s nice and cold. A slotted spoon or a salad serving set works perfectly for dishing it out, allowing any excess dressing to drain slightly, though with this recipe, there’s rarely much excess!
Proper Storage for Leftovers
Should you be fortunate enough to have any leftovers of this delicious coleslaw, store them promptly in the fridge. Make sure to use an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors. Consume any stored leftovers within 4 to 5 days for the best quality and taste. The flavors often deepen even more on the second day!
Tips for Achieving the Best Copycat KFC Coleslaw
- Fine Shredding is Key: The signature texture of KFC coleslaw comes from very finely shredded cabbage and carrots. Don’t go for chunky pieces. A food processor with a shredding disc or a fine hand grater will achieve the best results.
- Don’t Rush the Chill Time: The 4-hour minimum chilling time is crucial. It’s not just about getting it cold; it allows the flavors to truly meld and the cabbage to soften to the perfect consistency. Overnight chilling yields the best results.
- Use Full-Fat Mayonnaise: For that rich, creamy, and authentic KFC taste, stick to real, full-fat mayonnaise. Lighter versions or salad dressings like Miracle Whip will alter the flavor and texture significantly.
- Buttermilk is a Must (or a Good Substitute): The tangy buttermilk is vital for the dressing’s distinct flavor and smooth consistency. If you don’t have it, use the easy homemade buttermilk substitute.
- Adjust Sweetness and Tang: Taste the dressing before combining it with the vegetables. You can add a little more sugar for sweetness or a splash more lemon juice/ACV for extra tang, according to your preference.
More Delicious Serving Suggestions for Your KFC Coleslaw
While this copycat KFC coleslaw is a dream come true alongside fried chicken, its versatility extends far beyond! Consider these delectable pairings:
- BBQ Feasts: It’s a natural partner for anything smoked or grilled, like pulled pork sandwiches, beef brisket, grilled chicken, or BBQ ribs. The cool, tangy crunch perfectly complements rich, smoky flavors.
- Fish & Chips: Just like our family’s Walleye fry, this coleslaw is an excellent side for any fried fish, fish tacos, or a classic fish and chips platter.
- Burgers & Hot Dogs: Elevate your backyard burger and hot dog game with a generous scoop of this creamy slaw. It adds a fresh, vibrant element that takes ordinary to extraordinary.
- Picnics & Potlucks: It travels well and is always a hit! Pack it for outdoor events, family reunions, or neighborhood gatherings.
- Sandwich Topper: Use it as a crunchy, creamy topping for pulled pork sandwiches, grilled chicken sandwiches, or even a robust veggie burger.
Love It? Pin It!
Don’t forget where you discovered this incredible copycat KFC coleslaw recipe! Make sure to save it to your favorite recipe board on Pinterest before you go, so you can easily find it whenever that craving for a creamy, tangy side hits!
Other Delicious Copycat Restaurant Recipes to Enjoy
If you’re as delighted with this copycat KFC coleslaw recipe as we are, then you are absolutely going to adore these other fantastic restaurant copycat recipes. Now you can bring the magic of your favorite dining experiences right into the comfort of your very own kitchen!
- KFC Chicken Recipe (pictured above) – The perfect main course to accompany your coleslaw!
- Copycat McDonald’s Tartar Sauce & Fish Sandwich – Recreate a fast-food classic.
- Zuppa Toscana – Olive Garden Copycat Recipe – A hearty and flavorful soup.
- Taco Bell Enchirito Recipe – A beloved Taco Bell staple made at home.
- Hooters Wings in the Air Fryer – Get crispy, flavorful wings without the deep fryer.
- Copycat Dairy Queen Apple Pie Blizzard – A sweet, icy treat to cool down.
- Sonic Cherry Limeade – Quench your thirst with this refreshing drink.
- Copycat El Bee’s Margaritas – Perfect for your next fiesta!
- Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Recipe – A savory, crunchy favorite for dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions About Copycat KFC Coleslaw
- Can I use a pre-shredded coleslaw mix? Yes, you absolutely can! However, most pre-packaged mixes contain larger shreds of cabbage and carrots than the authentic KFC version. For the best, most authentic texture, I recommend giving them an extra chop with a knife or pulsing them briefly in a food processor to achieve a finer consistency.
- How long does this coleslaw last in the refrigerator? When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, this copycat KFC coleslaw will stay fresh and delicious for about 4 to 5 days. The flavors often deepen and improve after the first day!
- Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time for a party? Yes, and it’s highly recommended! As noted in the instructions, the coleslaw needs at least 4 hours to chill and allow the flavors to meld. Making it the night before or first thing in the morning for an evening gathering is ideal.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, assuming all your individual ingredients (like mayonnaise) are certified gluten-free.
- Can I make it less sweet? Absolutely! The amount of sugar can be adjusted to your personal preference. Start with slightly less than the recipe calls for, taste the dressing, and add more if desired.
I sincerely hope that you and your loved ones enjoy this homemade KFC coleslaw as much as my family and I do! I know that in today’s vast culinary landscape, you have countless choices when it comes to finding new recipes. Please know that when I choose to share something with you, it comes directly from my heart, and it’s always a dish that my family truly enjoys and devours. It’s my passion to bring delicious, tried-and-true recipes from my kitchen to yours.
So, gather your ingredients and let’s whip up this incredibly easy and unbelievably flavorful KFC coleslaw recipe together!
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Print Recipe
KFC Cole Slaw Copy Cat
Equipment
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Cuisinart Boxed Grater
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Cuisinart DLC-2ABC Mini-Prep Plus 24-Ounce Food-Processors, 3 Cup, Brushed Chrome and Nickel
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Ninja BN601 Professional Plus Food Processor 9-Cup Capacity and a Silver Stainless Finish
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Oggi Mixing Bowl, 4 Quart
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage one small head
- 1/4 cup shredded carrot one medium-sized carrot
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3 1/2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 Tablespoons heavy cream
- 2 Tablespoons buttermilk *
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 Tablespoon dry minced onion
- 1 pinch celery seed optional
Instructions
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Add all of the dressing ingredients into a small jar with a lid. Give it a good shake and set it aside.
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Finely shred cabbage and carrot using a hand grater or your food processor.
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Add the shredded cabbage and carrot to a large mixing bowl.
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Pour the dressing over the top and give the cole slaw a good toss.
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Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and place in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
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Serve cold.
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Store leftovers in the fridge, in an airtight container, consuming them within 4 to 5 days.
Notes
*Coleslaw mix with carrots can be subbed, but you may want to chop up those bigger pieces. A finer shred is better.