Easy, Homemade KFC Coleslaw (Copycat Recipe)

There is just nothing quite like a cool, creamy, and tangy side of coleslaw on a hot summer day.

I’ll never forget the first time I brought my version of this KFC Coleslaw to our annual church picnic. For years, Miss Betty Lou was the reigning queen of coleslaw. Hers was good, bless her heart, but it was always just a little… predictable. I knew I had to bring my A-game if I was going to make a name for myself at the potluck table.

I’d been working on my own copycat KFC coleslaw recipe for a while. The original is beloved for a reason, with that perfectly sweet and tangy dressing and finely minced cabbage. But I felt it needed a little something extra, a little whisper of Southern charm that would make people stop and say, “Now, what is in this?”

My secret? A little splash of dill pickle juice right in the dressing. It sounds simple, and it is, but that tiny bit of briny tang cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise and balances the sugar in a way that is just heavenly. That day at the picnic, I watched as folks went back for second, and then third, helpings. Even Pastor John came over to tell me it was the best coleslaw he’d had in all his years. That was the day my KFC Coleslaw became famous, and I’m so happy to be sharing my little secret with all of you.

Why This KFC Coleslaw Recipe Works

The original Kentucky Fried Chicken coleslaw is a true American classic. It has been a staple side dish for decades, and its popularity comes from its unique and consistent flavor profile. It is not like a heavy, mayo-drenched deli slaw or a vinegary, oil-based slaw. It strikes a perfect balance that has kept people coming back for more.

What makes it so special is the combination of a sweet, tangy dressing and the very finely chopped texture of the cabbage and carrots. It is more minced than shredded, which allows every single bite to be coated in that delicious dressing. It creates a creamy, almost melt-in-your-mouth experience that pairs perfectly with crispy fried chicken.

This copycat recipe works because it honors that tradition while elevating it just a touch. We replicate that signature texture and the classic sweet and tangy dressing base. The mayonnaise provides the creaminess, the sugar brings the sweetness, and the vinegar and lemon juice provide the essential tang. My special addition of dill pickle juice deepens that tanginess with a subtle, savory note that makes the other flavors shine even brighter. It’s a small change that makes a huge difference, turning a great copycat into a truly standout dish that will have everyone asking for your recipe.

Ingredients for KFC Coleslaw

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. We use everyday ingredients, but the key is in the proportions and one little secret ingredient that really makes it sing. Here is what you will need to gather from your pantry and fridge.

• For the Vegetables:
• 1 large head of cabbage, about 2 lbs, finely minced
• 1 large carrot, peeled and finely minced
• 1/4 cup yellow onion, finely minced
• For the Dressing:
• 1 cup good quality mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 tablespoon dill pickle juice (this is our special twist!)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

A few notes on these ingredients. For the cabbage and carrots, taking the time to mince them very finely is what gives this KFC Coleslaw its signature texture. A food processor is your best friend here. Just pulse until the pieces are very small, almost like rice, but be careful not to turn it into a puree.

When it comes to mayonnaise, use a brand you truly love. A good quality, full-fat mayonnaise like Duke’s or Hellmann’s will give you the creamiest, most flavorful result. The fresh lemon juice and our star ingredient, the dill pickle juice, provide a bright acidity that is absolutely essential to cutting through the richness and balancing the slaw. Do not skip them!

Step-by-Step Instructions For Making KFC Coleslaw

Making this delicious KFC coleslaw is as easy as one, two, three. The most important part is giving it time to chill so the flavors can meld together beautifully. Just follow these simple steps, and you will have the perfect side dish for any occasion.

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

First, we need to get that signature finely minced texture. Core your head of cabbage and cut it into manageable chunks. Do the same with your carrot and onion. Working in batches, add the vegetable chunks to a food processor and pulse until they are very finely minced. You are looking for a texture smaller than a typical shred. Be careful not to over-process, we do not want a paste! Once all your vegetables are minced, place them in a very large bowl.

Step 2: Whisk the Dressing

In a separate medium-sized bowl, it is time to make the magic happen. Combine the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, whole milk, buttermilk, white vinegar, fresh lemon juice, and our secret ingredient, the dill pickle juice. Whisk everything together until the sugar is completely dissolved and the dressing is smooth and creamy. A good wire whisk is perfect for this job. Finally, whisk in the salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Combine and Chill

Pour the prepared dressing over the minced vegetables in the large bowl. Use a spatula or large spoon to mix everything together thoroughly, making sure every little piece of cabbage and carrot is coated. Now comes the most important step, patience! Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better. This chilling time is not optional. It allows the cabbage to soften slightly and all those wonderful flavors in the dressing to marry together into the perfect KFC Coleslaw.

How To Serve KFC Coleslaw

Once your coleslaw has had a good, long chill in the refrigerator, it is ready to be the star of the show. Before serving, give it one last good stir to recombine everything, as some of the liquid may have settled at the bottom. This slaw is incredibly versatile and feels right at home at so many different meals.

Of course, the most classic pairing is with fried chicken. There is a reason KFC serves them together, the cool, creamy tang of the slaw is the perfect counterpoint to hot, crispy, savory chicken. But do not stop there. This coleslaw is a welcome addition to any summer cookout, picnic, or potluck. It brings a refreshing touch to the table that everyone appreciates.

Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve this KFC Coleslaw:

• The Ultimate Sandwich Topper: Pile it high on a pulled pork or pulled chicken sandwich. The creaminess and tang cut through the rich, smoky barbecue sauce in the most delicious way. It also adds a wonderful crunch.
• Gourmet Hot Dogs and Burgers: Forget plain old relish. A spoonful of this coleslaw on a grilled hot dog or burger adds a whole new dimension of flavor and texture. It is a game-changer for your backyard barbecue.
• A Classic Side Dish: Serve it in a big bowl right alongside grilled steaks, baby back ribs, baked beans, and potato salad. It is the quintessential side dish that complements just about any main course you can think of.
• As a Fish Taco Slaw: It is also fantastic with fried fish. Serve it next to a piece of fried catfish or use it as a topping for crispy fish tacos. The bright flavors are a perfect match for seafood.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this KFC Coleslaw is sure to be a hit. Just be prepared for everyone to ask for the recipe, you can decide whether or not to share our little pickle juice secret!

How To Store & Reuse KFC Coleslaw Leftovers

One of the best things about this recipe is that it makes a nice big batch, which means you will likely have some delicious leftovers. Storing this coleslaw properly is key to making sure it stays fresh and tasty for a few days. The flavors actually continue to develop, so some folks think it is even better on day two.

The most important thing is to keep it cold. As soon as you are done serving, get those leftovers back into the refrigerator. Store the coleslaw in an airtight container to keep it from drying out or absorbing any other odors from the fridge. Stored this way, your KFC Coleslaw will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. After that, the cabbage can become a bit too soft and watery for my liking.

Here are a few ideas for enjoying those leftovers:

• Revive and Serve: Cabbage naturally releases water, so your leftover slaw might look a little liquidy at the bottom. Simply use a slotted spoon to serve it, or carefully drain off some of the excess liquid before giving it a good stir. If it seems to have lost a little of its creaminess, you can stir in a fresh tablespoon of mayonnaise to bring it right back to life.
• Add it to a Wrap: Leftover coleslaw is a fantastic addition to a lunch wrap. Spread some on a tortilla with leftover grilled chicken, sliced turkey, or even just some sharp cheddar cheese for a quick, crunchy, and flavorful lunch.
• Create a “Kitchen Sink” Salad: Do not be afraid to mix things up. Toss your leftover coleslaw with some cooked, shredded chicken, a can of drained corn, and maybe some black beans for a brand new, hearty salad. It is a great way to make a whole new meal out of leftovers.

Because this is a mayonnaise-based slaw, it should not be frozen. The dressing will separate when it thaws, and the texture of the cabbage will be ruined. It is best enjoyed fresh within a few days of making it.

Substitutions & Variations For KFC Coleslaw

While I believe this KFC Coleslaw recipe is just about perfect as it is, I know that every cook likes to put their own little spin on things. This recipe is a wonderful base for you to experiment with. Whether you have dietary needs or just want to try a different flavor profile, there are plenty of easy swaps and additions you can make.

Feel free to play around with the ingredients to suit your family’s tastes. Just remember that changing the core components of the dressing will alter the final flavor, so you might need to adjust the seasonings to get the balance right again. A little taste test along the way never hurt anyone!

Here are some substitutions and variations to get you started:

• For a Lighter Version: If you are looking to lighten things up, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. This will add a bit more tang and protein while reducing the fat content. You could also use a light mayonnaise.
• Sweetener Swaps: If you prefer to avoid granulated sugar, you can try using honey or maple syrup instead. Start with a little less than the recipe calls for, as they are sweeter than sugar, and adjust to your taste.
• Vinegar Variations: While white vinegar gives it that classic taste, you can absolutely use apple cider vinegar for a fruitier, slightly milder tang. It pairs wonderfully with the cabbage.
• Add Some Heat: For those who like a little kick, try adding a finely minced jalapeño to the vegetable mix or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing. A pinch of cayenne pepper also works beautifully.
• Introduce New Flavors: Try adding a tablespoon of chopped fresh dill or parsley to the dressing for a fresh, herby note. Some people also enjoy adding a bit of celery seed or a pinch of celery salt for a more savory, complex flavor. You could even add a quarter cup of drained crushed pineapple for a sweet and tropical twist.

These are just a few ideas to spark your creativity. The best part about cooking at home is making a recipe your own, so have fun with it and create your family’s new favorite version of this classic KFC Coleslaw.

5 FAQs About KFC Coleslaw

Here are some straightforward answers to the most common questions I receive about this KFC coleslaw recipe.

Why is my KFC coleslaw watery?

This is by far the most common question, so please know you are not alone if this happens! The main culprit is the cabbage itself. Cabbage has a very high water content, and when it is mixed with salt and sugar from the dressing, it naturally begins to release that water through a process called osmosis. This is a completely normal and expected part of making coleslaw.

While my recipe is designed to be creamy, some wateriness is inevitable, especially after it sits for a day or two. To minimize this, you can give the slaw a good stir before serving to re-incorporate the liquid. You can also serve it with a slotted spoon to leave excess liquid behind. If you want to be extra diligent, you can salt your minced cabbage in a colander before mixing it with the dressing. Let it sit for about an hour, and you will see a lot of water drain out. Rinse the cabbage thoroughly to remove the excess salt, pat it very dry, and then proceed with the recipe. This extra step will result in a much thicker, creamier final product.

Can I make this KFC coleslaw ahead of time?

Absolutely, and I would argue that you absolutely should! This is not a dish that is best served immediately. Making KFC coleslaw ahead of time is essential for achieving the right flavor and texture. The chilling period, which I recommend for at least 4 hours, is crucial. It gives the flavors in the dressing a chance to meld together and permeate the vegetables. It also allows the cabbage to soften just slightly, giving it that signature tender-crisp texture you know and love from the original.

For the best results, I suggest making it the morning of the day you plan to serve it, or even the night before. This gives it ample time to chill and for the flavors to fully develop. It will hold up beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though it will be at its absolute peak in the first 24 to 48 hours. This makes it a perfect dish for meal prep or for getting a head start on party preparations.

What makes this KFC coleslaw recipe different from the original?

This recipe is designed to be a very close copycat of the beloved original KFC coleslaw, but with one special touch that I believe makes it even better. We nail the two most important elements of the original, the super fine texture of the vegetables and the sweet, tangy, and creamy dressing. We use all the classic dressing ingredients like mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, and buttermilk to create that familiar and delicious flavor base.

My secret twist is the addition of a tablespoon of dill pickle juice. While it is not in the original recipe, this small amount adds a wonderful, subtle briny tang that you cannot quite put your finger on. It cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise and enhances the other tangy notes from the vinegar and lemon juice, creating a more balanced and complex flavor profile. It is a simple addition that elevates the recipe from a good copycat to a truly exceptional slaw that still honors the taste everyone loves.

How do I get the right texture for the KFC coleslaw vegetables?

The texture is arguably just as important as the taste when it comes to replicating KFC coleslaw. The original is known for its very finely minced, almost rice-like consistency, not long shreds of cabbage. Achieving this at home is key to the authentic experience. The absolute best tool for the job is a food processor.

To do it, you will want to cut your cabbage, carrots, and onion into manageable 1-2 inch chunks. Place them in the food processor, being careful not to overcrowd it, you may need to work in a couple of batches. Use the “pulse” button. Pulsing gives you control and prevents you from accidentally turning your vegetables into a puree. Pulse a few times, check the consistency, and pulse again until you reach that signature fine mince. If you do not have a food processor, you can achieve a similar result with a very sharp knife and some patience, but it will take quite a bit of chopping. You can also use the small shredding side of a box grater for the carrot and onion.

Can I use a pre-made coleslaw mix for this recipe?

Yes, you certainly can use a bagged coleslaw mix from the grocery store if you are short on time. It is a great shortcut, and I will never judge a cook for taking a little help from the store. However, there is a very important step you will need to take to get the right texture for this specific KFC coleslaw recipe.

Most pre-made mixes contain long shreds of cabbage and carrots. To get that authentic, finely minced texture, you will need to dump that bagged mix right into your food processor. Just like with the fresh vegetables, pulse it a few times until the shreds break down into much smaller pieces. This will make a world of difference and get you much closer to the real thing. Without this step, you will have a delicious slaw, but it will not have that signature KFC texture. It is a quick extra step that is well worth the effort.

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