Why You’ll Love this Copycat KFC Coleslaw
If you’ve ever craved that creamy, tangy KFC coleslaw but didn’t want to make a trip to the drive-thru, this copycat recipe is about to become your new best friend. I’m obsessed with how perfectly it captures that signature KFC flavor profile – the ideal balance of creaminess, sweetness, and tang.
What makes it so great? It’s ridiculously simple to prepare, uses basic ingredients you probably already have, and actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge. Can anything beat homemade coleslaw that rivals the fast-food version without those mystery additives?
What Ingredients are in Copycat KFC Coleslaw?
The secret to making KFC coleslaw that tastes just like the real thing lies in getting the right ingredients in the right proportions. This creamy, slightly sweet slaw has a distinctive tang that sets it apart from other coleslaw recipes, and it all starts with simple, fresh ingredients that create magic when combined.
The fine texture of the vegetables is particularly important to replicate that classic KFC mouthfeel.
- 8 cups finely chopped cabbage
- 1/4 cup shredded carrot
- 2 tablespoons minced onions
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
For the best results, pay attention to how you prepare the vegetables. Unlike chunky homestyle coleslaws, KFC’s version requires the cabbage to be very finely chopped—almost minced—which allows the dressing to coat every piece evenly.
Can’t be bothered with all that chopping? A food processor with a chopping blade works wonders here.
And remember, this recipe tastes even better after sitting for at least two hours in the refrigerator, so it’s perfect for making ahead of time when planning for gatherings or family dinners.
How to Make this Copycat KFC Coleslaw
Making KFC coleslaw at home is ridiculously simple, and the result is a dead ringer for the famous side dish we all know and love.
Start by prepping your vegetables – finely chop 8 cups of cabbage (and I do mean finely – we’re talking almost confetti-sized pieces here), shred 1/4 cup of carrots, and mince 2 tablespoons of onions. The texture is essential for authentic KFC vibes, so don’t skip the fine chopping. If you’re like me and value your fingertips, a food processor makes quick work of this task in about 30 seconds flat.
Next, combine your dressing ingredients in a separate bowl – 1/3 cup sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon white pepper, 1/4 cup milk, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar, and 2 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice. Whisk these together until smooth and well incorporated.
Can we just take a moment to appreciate how this dressing hits all the right notes? Sweet, tangy, creamy – it’s the trifecta of coleslaw perfection. Pour this luscious dressing over your prepared vegetables and mix thoroughly, making sure every tiny piece gets coated.
Now comes the hardest part – waiting. Cover your coleslaw and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours before serving. Trust me on this one; this resting time is non-negotiable. The flavors need time to mingle and get to know each other, and the cabbage slightly softens while maintaining that signature KFC crunch.
The longer it sits (within reason – we’re talking hours, not days), the better it tastes. This makes it the perfect make-ahead side for picnics, barbecues, or alongside your homemade fried chicken dinner. Who needs drive-thru when you’ve got this copycat recipe in your arsenal?
Copycat KFC Coleslaw Substitutions and Variations
While classic KFC coleslaw possesses an unmistakable flavor profile, you can easily tweak this copycat recipe to suit dietary needs or personal preferences without sacrificing its signature taste.
For a healthier version, I recommend swapping the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, which adds a tangy kick while reducing calories.
Need it dairy-free? Try vegan mayo and plant-based milk. Not a fan of white sugar? Honey or maple syrup work beautifully, though they’ll slightly alter the flavor.
Want to spice things up? A dash of celery seed, pinch of cayenne, or splash of hot sauce creates wonderful variations.
And yes, purple cabbage makes a gorgeous color contrast!
What to Serve with Copycat KFC Coleslaw
Now that you’ve perfected your coleslaw, let’s talk about what foods pair beautifully with this creamy, tangy side dish.
I’m thinking classic comfort foods that complement that signature KFC flavor profile.
Fried chicken is the obvious soulmate here—crispy, juicy, and practically begging for coleslaw’s cooling crunch.
Pulled pork sandwiches? Divine. The coleslaw can go right on top or alongside.
Barbecue anything works wonderfully too. Ribs, brisket, grilled chicken—they all need that fresh counterpoint.
And don’t forget burgers, hot dogs, or even fish tacos, where the slaw adds both texture and tang.
Final Thoughts
After spending time with this copycat KFC coleslaw recipe, I’m convinced it’s as close to the real thing as you can get without donning the Colonel’s white suit.
The secret really is in that perfect balance of creamy dressing and crisp vegetables.
What makes this recipe special? Perhaps it’s the fine chop of the cabbage or the precise blend of sweet and tangy elements.
Maybe it’s the two-hour rest that lets all those flavors meld together in perfect harmony.
Whatever your reason for making it, this coleslaw delivers that nostalgic KFC experience right in your own kitchen.
For another homemade take on restaurant favorites, try pairing this coleslaw with Chicken Marsala for an Italian-American inspired dinner that’s both elegant and approachable.
And if you’re looking to reduce food waste in other delicious ways, consider transforming your stale bread into a warm dessert with cinnamon and nutmeg.
