Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe: Tangy 10-Min Prep Side (Print Version)
This Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe is a tangy, creamy 10-minute prep side dish. Recreate that classic flavor at home easily, perfect for any meal!
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 0 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6-8 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ Crisp Base
01 -
1 medium head green cabbage, finely shredded (about 8 cups)
02 -
1 large carrot, peeled and finely grated (about 1 cup)
→ Creamy Dressing
03 -
½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat, please!)
04 -
¼ cup milk (whole milk gives the best creaminess)
05 -
¼ cup granulated sugar
06 -
2 tablespoons white vinegar
07 -
1 tablespoon lemon juice
→ Flavor Boosters
08 -
2 tablespoons finely minced white onion
09 -
½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
10 -
½ teaspoon salt
11 -
¼ teaspoon black pepper
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, let's get that cabbage and carrot ready. I usually grab my sharpest knife and shred the cabbage thinly, but honestly, a food processor with a shredding disc is a lifesaver here! Just be super careful not to over-process it into mush – a few quick pulses should do the trick. Grate your carrot finely, too. I remember one time I got distracted by a podcast and ended up with cabbage chunks the size of my thumb. Oops! We want nice, delicate shreds for that classic texture.
02 -
Now for the magic! In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, granulated sugar, white vinegar, and lemon juice. I swear by full-fat mayo for this Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe; anything less just doesn't deliver that signature richness. Give it a good, enthusiastic whisk until everything is smooth and the sugar starts to dissolve. You should see it transforming into a pale, creamy concoction that's already smelling pretty good, if you ask me.
03 -
Time to kick up the flavor! Stir in the finely minced white onion, dry mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. The dry mustard is key here; it adds that subtle, almost spicy undertone that makes this Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe so distinctive. Don't be shy with the onion, but make sure it's minced really, really fine. No big chunks, we're going for subtle flavor, not an onion bite! Taste it here – does it need a tiny bit more salt? Your call, friend.
04 -
Now for the big moment! Add your shredded cabbage and grated carrot to the bowl with the dressing. This is where I often make a mess, so maybe use a really big bowl, ha! Using a spatula or your clean hands (my preferred method, honestly), gently fold and toss everything together until the cabbage and carrots are completely coated in that glorious, creamy dressing. You want every single strand to be drenched. This step is a bit of a workout, but so worth it!
05 -
This step is non-negotiable for a truly authentic Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Seriously, don't skip this! The chilling time allows all those beautiful flavors to meld and deepen, and the cabbage softens just a touch, absorbing all that tangy goodness. I usually aim for 4 hours, or even overnight, if I can manage it. It’s like a little flavor spa day for your coleslaw!
06 -
After its chill time, give the coleslaw another good stir. The flavors will have transformed, and the texture will be just right – creamy, crunchy, and perfectly tangy. It should look vibrant and inviting, smelling like a summer picnic! Spoon it into a pretty serving bowl and get ready for compliments. This homemade Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe always disappears fast at my table, so maybe make a double batch if you're feeding a crowd!
# Notes:
01 -
Don't skip the chilling time; it makes a huge difference in flavor and texture!
02 -
This coleslaw actually tastes better the next day, so it's a fantastic make-ahead side.
03 -
If you're out of white vinegar, apple cider vinegar works in a pinch, but the flavor will be slightly different.
04 -
A tiny sprinkle of celery seeds adds a little something extra, I swear!
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large mixing bowl
02 -
whisk
03 -
sharp knife or food processor
04 -
measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 220
Total Fat: 18g
Total Carbohydrate: 15g
Protein: 1g