Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Introduction
This Copycat KFC Coleslaw brings the classic creamy and tangy flavor right to your kitchen. It’s a quick and easy side dish that pairs perfectly with fried chicken or any comfort meal.

Ingredients
- 4 cups finely chopped cabbage
- ½ medium carrot, very finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons onion, minced
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk
- 4 teaspoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 4 teaspoons granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Chop the cabbage and carrot very finely using a food processor. Combine the cabbage and carrot in a large mixing bowl; set aside.
- Step 2: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the onion, buttermilk, white vinegar, milk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Step 3: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture and stir well to combine thoroughly.
- Step 4: Chill the coleslaw in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, you can add diced celery or a small amount of finely chopped green bell pepper.
- Use Greek yogurt in place of some mayonnaise for a lighter version.
- Adjust sugar and lemon juice to taste if you prefer a sweeter or tangier coleslaw.
Storage
Store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving and keep it chilled. Avoid freezing as it may alter the texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this coleslaw in advance?
Yes, preparing it a few hours ahead allows the flavors to blend well. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
Is there a substitute for buttermilk in this recipe?
You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle before using.
PrintCopycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe
This Copycat KFC Coleslaw recipe delivers the creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor of the classic fast-food favorite. Made with finely chopped cabbage and carrot, combined with a smooth buttermilk mayonnaise dressing, this coleslaw is perfect as a refreshing side dish that pairs wonderfully with fried chicken or BBQ meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: About 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups finely chopped cabbage
- ½ medium carrot, very finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons onion, minced
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk
- 4 teaspoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 4 teaspoons granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Finely chop the cabbage and carrot using a food processor to achieve a very fine texture similar to that of the KFC coleslaw. Combine these chopped vegetables in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- Make the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, white vinegar, milk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Mix Dressing and Vegetables: Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure every bit of cabbage is coated evenly with the dressing.
- Chill the Coleslaw: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the coleslaw to chill properly before serving.
Notes
- Using a food processor to finely chop the cabbage and carrot is key to getting the signature texture of KFC coleslaw.
- Chilling the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors blend and improves the overall taste.
- Adjust the sugar and vinegar slightly to taste if you prefer a sweeter or tangier coleslaw.
- This coleslaw is best served fresh within a day or two for optimal flavor and texture.
Keywords: KFC coleslaw, copycat recipe, coleslaw recipe, creamy coleslaw, side dish, American coleslaw

