Description

This KFC Copycat Coleslaw recipe recreates the iconic creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet coleslaw that perfectly complements fried chicken. Made with finely chopped cabbage and carrot tossed in a buttermilk-mayo dressing, this easy-to-make side dish is refreshing and flavorful, ideal for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

½ head cabbage, finely chopped (about 4 cups)
½ medium carrot, finely chopped

Dressing

2 tablespoons buttermilk
4¼ teaspoons white vinegar
1½ tablespoons onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons whole milk
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 teaspoons lemon juice
4 teaspoons sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
⅜ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables: Using a food processor, finely chop the cabbage by pulsing carefully to avoid pulverizing it; work in small batches if needed. Similarly, finely chop the carrot. Transfer both the cabbage and carrot to a medium bowl.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine buttermilk, white vinegar, finely chopped onion, whole milk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
Toss and Chill: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture and stir to coat evenly. Although the mixture may seem dry initially, the cabbage will release moisture over time. Cover and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften. Stir well before serving.

Notes

For best texture, avoid over-processing the cabbage and carrot to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Refrigerating the coleslaw overnight enhances flavor and texture even more.
The acidity from vinegar and lemon juice helps balance the sweetness of the sugar and creaminess of the mayonnaise.
If buttermilk is unavailable, you can substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Keywords: KFC coleslaw, copycat recipe, coleslaw dressing, creamy coleslaw, side dish, picnic salad, cabbage salad