KFC Coleslaw (Copycat Recipe)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2–4 hours (recommended)
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
Vegetables
½ head green cabbage, finely chopped or minced
½ medium carrot, finely grated
Dressing
¼ cup mayonnaise (full-fat for best flavor)
2 tablespoons whole milk
2 tablespoons buttermilk
4¼ teaspoons white vinegar
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
4 teaspoons granulated sugar
1½ tablespoons finely minced onion (or onion powder for smoother texture)
¼ teaspoon salt
⅜ teaspoon black pepper (about a generous ¼ tsp)
Instructions
1. Prepare the vegetables
Cut the cabbage into chunks and finely chop it using a knife, food processor, or grater.
Grate the carrot very finely (KFC-style texture is very fine).
Place both in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
Mayonnaise
Whole milk
Buttermilk
White vinegar
Lemon juice
Sugar
Minced onion
Salt and pepper
Whisk until completely smooth and creamy.
3. Combine
Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture.
Stir well until all vegetables are evenly coated.
4. Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (4 hours or overnight is best).
This step is important—it allows the flavors to blend and soften the cabbage.
5. Serve
Stir again before serving.
Taste and adjust salt, sugar, or vinegar if needed.
Tips for Authentic KFC Flavor
The cabbage should be very finely chopped, almost minced.
Do not skip chilling time—it makes a big difference.
If you want it sweeter, add ½–1 teaspoon extra sugar.
For smoother texture, use onion powder instead of fresh onion.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Best eaten within 2–3 days.
