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There’s a certain joy that comes from taking a beloved restaurant dish and making it your own at home. I found myself craving the creamy, tangy delight of KFC’s coleslaw, but was tired of the usual takeout routine. Then it hit me: why not whip up a copycat version right in my kitchen? This KFC Coleslaw Copycat recipe not only satisfies that craving but also offers a burst of freshness that store-bought versions can’t match. With just a handful of accessible ingredients, you can recreate that signature balance of sweetness and tang. Picture yourself serving this vibrant, crunchy side dish at your next gathering or simply enjoying it alongside a comforting meal. It’s the perfect way to elevate any dinner and bring a bit of nostalgic comfort to your table. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!

Why is this KFC Coleslaw Copycat a Must-Try?

Deliciously Creamy: This recipe captures the rich, tangy essence of KFC’s original coleslaw, satisfying your cravings right at home.
Super Simple: Made with common ingredients, it takes minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a hit at barbecues, potlucks, or family dinners, guaranteed to impress friends and loved ones alike.
Customize Your Way: Add a twist by incorporating diced apples or bell peppers for an extra crunch!
Make Ahead: Whip it up in advance, as it stays fresh in the fridge for up to three days – perfect for hassle-free meal prep.
Feel free to explore more of my satisfying side dishes that pair excellently with your meals!

KFC Coleslaw Copycat Ingredients

• Get ready to recreate a classic!

For the Dressing

Buttermilk – Adds richness and tang to the dressing; substitute with regular milk mixed with lemon juice for acidity.
Mayonnaise – Provides a creamy texture and binds ingredients; for a lighter option, use Greek yogurt.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Contributes tanginess that balances sweetness; can substitute with white vinegar if needed.
Lemon Juice – Enhances tanginess and brightness; fresh is best, but bottled works in a pinch.
Sugar – Sweetens the coleslaw to mimic KFC’s signature flavor; consider honey or agave syrup for a natural option.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste, using sea salt for a refined touch.
Pepper – Adds background spiciness; freshly cracked black pepper is highly recommended.
Celery Seed – Provides a distinctive flavor that mirrors KFC’s version; poppy seeds can be a delightful twist.

For the Coleslaw

Pre-Shredded Coleslaw Mix – Delivers perfect texture and convenience; shred your own cabbage and carrots for added freshness.

How to Make KFC Coleslaw Copycat

Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, pepper, and celery seed until smooth. Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved for a silky dressing.
Mix the Coleslaw: In a large bowl, transfer the pre-shredded coleslaw mix. Pour the creamy dressing over the mix and toss gently until everything is evenly coated with that delicious tangy goodness.
Chill: Cover the coleslaw mixture and refrigerate for 6–8 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, softening the coleslaw to perfection for a delightful crunch.

Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of extra celery seed for added flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for KFC Coleslaw Copycat

Sugar Dissolution: Ensure sugar is completely dissolved in the dressing for a silky-smooth texture, enhancing the overall experience of your KFC coleslaw copycat.
Chill Time is Key: Allow at least 6–8 hours in the fridge; this step melds flavors beautifully, creating that creamy, tangy profile you love.
Gentle Tossing: Handle the coleslaw mix gently when combining with the dressing; this helps maintain the crispness of the cabbage and carrots.
Ingredient Substitutes: Don’t hesitate to mix things up! Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise can add a lighter touch without sacrificing creaminess in your KFC coleslaw copycat.
Add Extra Crunch: Incorporate diced apples or bell peppers for added texture and a delicious twist that elevates your classic side dish!

Storage Tips for KFC Coleslaw Copycat

Fridge: Store your KFC Coleslaw Copycat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy its creamy goodness without compromising quality.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the coleslaw a day in advance! This not only saves time but also lets the flavors meld perfectly, enhancing the taste for your next meal.
Freezer: While freezing is possible, it’s best to avoid it as the texture may become soggy upon thawing. Enjoy fresh for the best experience!
Reheating: If you prefer serving it slightly warmed, let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving, but remember, coleslaw is traditionally enjoyed chilled for that refreshing crunch.

Make Ahead Options

These KFC Coleslaw Copycat preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the dressing up to 24 hours in advance by whisking together buttermilk, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, pepper, and celery seed, then refrigerate it. The pre-shredded coleslaw mix can also be stored separately for up to 3 days in the fridge to maintain its crunch. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the chilled dressing with the coleslaw mix, toss gently, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This way, you’ll still enjoy that creamy, tangy goodness just as fresh and delightful!

What to Serve with KFC Coleslaw Copycat?

Bring your meal to life with delightful side dishes and pairings that highlight the creamy, tangy flavors of this beloved coleslaw.

Fried Chicken: The classic match for any homestyle meal, crispy fried chicken adds savory decadence alongside the refreshing coleslaw.
BBQ Ribs: The smoky, saucy goodness of BBQ ribs beautifully contrasts with the creamy crispness, creating a feast for the senses.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy, grilled corn provides a burst of summer flavor that complements the coleslaw’s crunch perfectly.
Potato Salad: The creamy texture of a hearty potato salad mirrors the coleslaw while bringing a different flavor profile to the table. A fantastic duo!
Burgers and Sliders: Whether it’s beef, chicken, or veggie, sandwiches topped with this tangy coleslaw offer a delightful crunch and freshness in every bite.
Sweet Iced Tea: A tall glass of sweet iced tea balances the flavors of your meal, making it a refreshing drink option that pairs beautifully.
Chocolate Cake: The rich sweetness of a moist chocolate cake serves as a delightful contrast to the tangy coleslaw, rounding out your meal with a decadent dessert.

Elevate your gatherings with these pairs that not only complement your KFC Coleslaw Copycat but also collect the smiles of everyone at the table!

KFC Coleslaw Copycat Variations

Feel free to play around with this classic recipe to suit your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Swap buttermilk with a non-dairy milk and add a splash of vinegar for creaminess without the dairy.
Greek Yogurt: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed version that still delivers creaminess.
Sweet & Fruity: Toss in diced apples or raisins for a burst of sweetness that complements the tangy dressing beautifully.
Crunchy Veggies: Add diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for extra color, crunch, and freshness in each bite.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to introduce a delightful heat that elevates the whole dish.
Herb-Infused: Fresh dill or parsley can add a delightful herbal twist to the coleslaw, giving it a refreshing taste that brightens up the dish.
Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle roasted sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts into the mix; they add a great crunch and a depth of flavor.
Seasonal Twists: In the fall, try adding shredded Brussels sprouts for a seasonal twist that adds delightful earthiness alongside the cabbage!

KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best buttermilk for my coleslaw?
Absolutely! Fresh buttermilk can make a big difference in the creaminess of your dressing. Look for buttermilk with a sell-by date at least a week away to ensure freshness. If you’re in a pinch, mix regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 10 minutes to create a quick substitute!

How should I store leftover coleslaw?
No worries! Store your KFC Coleslaw Copycat in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping it sealed will preserve its freshness and crunch. Just be sure to give it a gentle stir before serving it again since some dressing may settle at the bottom.

Can I freeze KFC Coleslaw Copycat?
I recommend avoiding freezing this coleslaw, as the texture can become soggy once thawed. However, if you’d like to prepare components in advance, you can freeze the shredded cabbage and carrots, then mix them with the dressing once thawed for the best quality.

What do I do if my dressing is too thick?
If your dressing seems thicker than you’d like, add a little bit of milk or buttermilk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Whisk well to combine, and take your time; the dressing should be creamy and smooth to perfectly coat the coleslaw.

How can I make this coleslaw allergy-friendly?
For those with egg allergies, opt for a store-bought mayonnaise that’s egg-free, or you can make a homemade version using silken tofu blended until smooth. For dairy-free options, use non-dairy yogurt in place of buttermilk and regular mayonnaise. Everyone should be able to enjoy this creamy deliciousness!

What’s the secret to the signature KFC taste?
The key ingredients for achieving that signature KFC flavor are the combination of sugar, apple cider vinegar, and celery seed. These components work together to create the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. Be sure to taste as you go and tweak according to your preference for that authentic touch!