KFC Coleslaw Recipe

Replicate KFC’s Famous Coleslaw with this quick and simple recipe – you won’t even know the difference!

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Have you ever walked out of a KFC amazed at how good the coleslaw was? You might have been there for chicken but came away more impressed with the coleslaw. Even if you’ve never had KFC’s coleslaw before, trust me when I tell you that it’s something special. Outside of its original recipe chicken, KFC’s coleslaw is arguably the most iconic dish at the restaurant chain. That’s why I couldn’t keep a recipe that replicates KFC’s coleslaw to myself.

Anyone who’s had KFC’s coleslaw knows that it finds the perfect balance between creamy and crunchy. It’s known for its tangy dressing but also the taste of creamy buttermilk. After all, keeping everything in balance is vital when making coleslaw. Believe it or not, the recipe isn’t that hard to replicate. You just need finely diced cabbage and fresh ingredients to make a batch of coleslaw that’s every bit as good as the stuff you’ll get at KFC.

That being said, KFC’s coleslaw isn’t the only recipe worth trying. I’m also a big fan of Apple Coleslaw, which is a little different from what you’ll find at KFC. Another unique coleslaw recipe I like is Coleslaw with Asian Dressing. If you want to take things a step further, there is always Mexican Coleslaw. Last but not least, you can always whip up a good Cabbage Salad, which is similar to coleslaw.

Is This KFC Coleslaw Recipe Healthy?

As you might expect for a recipe from a fast-food restaurant, KFC coleslaw isn’t particularly healthy. Thanks to the mayonnaise and buttermilk, it’s a little high in fat and calories for a side dish. The sugar and sodium content are also a little high for some people. On the bright side, veggies like cabbage and carrots do add some nutritional value to KFC coleslaw, providing plenty of vitamin C, fiber, and other nutrients.

Don’t Rush…

While KFC coleslaw is a simple recipe, it will take some time and a little discipline to put it together the right way. For starters, vegetables like cabbage and carrots need to be fresh and finely chopped. Don’t rely on pre-packaged vegetables; cut them yourself. Finely chop the vegetables until they are the size of a grain of rice. This is what separates KFC coleslaw from similar recipes.

It’s equally important to give the ingredients enough time in the fridge to chill. The recipe recommends at least 4 hours in the fridge before it’s ready to serve. However, it’s best to leave the coleslaw in the fridge overnight, making it up to 24 hours before you plan to eat it. Either way, making KFC coleslaw requires patience, so don’t plan on making it at the last minute.

INGREDIENTS

8 cups cabbage, finely chopped
1/4 cup carrot, shredded
2 tablespoons onion, minced
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup 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

INSTRUCTIONS

Mix

Prepare dressing and mix with vegetables.

Chill

Refrigerate to blend flavors and crisp.

Devour!

FAQs & Tips

How to Make Ahead and Store

As mentioned, give KFC coleslaw at least 4 hours in the fridge before serving. Leftovers will stay good in the fridge for 3 to 5 days, so you don’t have to eat it all in one sitting.

What type of cabbage should I use in this recipe?

It’s critical to use green cabbage and not red cabbage when making KFC coleslaw.

Can I add extra ingredients?

Since this is a copycat recipe, it’s best not to add anything extra. Just follow the recipe exactly to replicate KFC’s coleslaw.

Serving Suggestions

Since this is KFC coleslaw, it’s only natural to want to eat it with fried chicken. I would suggest either cooking Oven-Fried Chicken Breast or Crispy Breaded Chicken in an Air Fryer. Of course, coleslaw is also a great side dish for a summer barbecue, so feel free to use it as a side for Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Breast or perhaps Slow Cooker Island Pulled Pork. Finally, even if KFC doesn’t serve burgers, you can still make KFC coleslaw if you plan on cooking Sweet Potato Veggie Burgers or Black Bean Burgers.