Famous KFC Coleslaw Recipe (Copycat)
Creamy, sweet, tangy, and irresistibly crunchy, this Famous KFC Coleslaw Recipe is a spot-on homemade version of the iconic fast-food favorite. Served alongside fried chicken, barbecue, or sandwiches, KFC coleslaw has earned its place as one of the most recognizable side dishes in the world.
The secret lies in the very fine chop, the perfect sugar-vinegar balance, and letting the coleslaw rest so the flavors meld. This copycat recipe delivers that classic taste and texture—right from your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Authentic KFC flavor – sweet, creamy, and tangy
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Simple ingredients – pantry and fridge staples
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Quick to make – no cooking required
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Perfect make-ahead side – better after chilling
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Pairs with everything – chicken, burgers, BBQ
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
For the Coleslaw
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8 cups finely chopped green cabbage (about 1 medium head)
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¼ cup finely grated carrot
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2 tbsp finely minced onion
For the Dressing
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½ cup mayonnaise
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⅓ cup granulated sugar
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¼ cup whole milk
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¼ cup buttermilk
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2½ tbsp white vinegar
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½ tsp salt
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⅛ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Finely chop the cabbage into very small pieces—almost minced. KFC coleslaw is known for its fine, uniform texture, not chunky shreds.
Grate the carrot finely and mince the onion as small as possible. Place all vegetables in a large bowl.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, milk, buttermilk, vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and fully dissolved.
Tip: Whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved for that signature smooth sweetness.
Step 3: Combine
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Chill (Very Important!)
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This resting time allows the cabbage to soften slightly and absorb the dressing, creating that authentic KFC texture and flavor.
Tips for Authentic KFC Coleslaw
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Finely chopped cabbage is key – use a food processor if needed
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Don’t skip the chilling time – flavor develops as it rests
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Use white vinegar only – apple cider changes the taste
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Measure carefully – balance of sweet and tangy matters
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Stir before serving – dressing settles as it chills
Texture & Flavor Secrets
What makes KFC coleslaw special:
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Slightly softened cabbage, not crunchy-raw
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Sweetness that leads, followed by gentle tang
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Creamy but light dressing
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No overpowering onion flavor
This recipe recreates that exact balance.
Variations
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Lighter Version: Use light mayonnaise and low-fat milk
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Extra Tangy: Add ½ tsp more vinegar
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Less Sweet: Reduce sugar to ¼ cup
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No Buttermilk: Use regular milk + 1 tsp lemon juice
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Southern Twist: Add a pinch of celery seed
Serving Suggestions
KFC-style coleslaw pairs perfectly with:
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Fried or grilled chicken
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BBQ ribs or pulled pork
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Burgers and sandwiches
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Fish and chips
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Picnic and potluck spreads
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 3 days
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Do not freeze: Dressing will separate
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Best texture: Day 1 or Day 2
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of fine-cut cabbage, sweetened milk-based dressing, and resting time creates the unmistakable flavor and texture people associate with KFC coleslaw. The sugar softens the cabbage, while the vinegar adds balance, resulting in a smooth, crave-worthy side dish.
Final Thoughts
This Famous KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe delivers everything you love about the original—creamy, sweet, tangy perfection—without leaving home. Easy to make and always a hit, it’s the ultimate side dish for comfort food meals and casual gatherings.
Once you try it, it may become your go-to coleslaw forever.