The Famous KFC Coleslaw Recipe (Copycat Version)

This KFC-style coleslaw is the perfect creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet side dish that pairs beautifully with fried chicken, BBQ, or any southern meal. It tastes just like the classic you love from the restaurant — finely chopped cabbage, a touch of carrot, and that signature sweet-but-tangy dressing. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make at home with simple ingredients!

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours (for best flavor)
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: About 6

Ingredients

 For the Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup milk
• ¼ cup buttermilk
• 2 ½ tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 1 ½ tablespoons white vinegar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

 For the Coleslaw Mix:

• 8 cups finely chopped cabbage (about 1 medium head)
• ¼ cup grated or finely minced carrot
• (Optional) 2 tablespoons finely minced onion for extra flavor
• Shortcut: You can use one 14-ounce bag of coleslaw mix from the store instead of chopping your own.

Instructions

 Prepare the Dressing

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:
mayonnaise, sugar, milk, buttermilk, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

Tip: Taste the dressing — it should be sweet, tangy, and balanced. Adjust the sugar or vinegar slightly to your liking.

 Chop the Cabbage and Carrots

If using fresh cabbage, finely chop it until the texture resembles the small pieces in traditional KFC coleslaw (a food processor works great for this).
Grate or mince the carrot and combine both in a large mixing bowl.

 Combine and Mix

Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture.
Stir very well to ensure every piece is evenly coated. The slaw should look creamy but not watery.

 Chill and Let the Flavors Develop

Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight.
This resting time allows the flavors to blend and the cabbage to soften slightly — just like the real KFC version.

 Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, give the coleslaw a quick stir.
Serve cold as a refreshing side to:

• Fried chicken
• BBQ ribs or pulled pork
• Grilled fish or burgers

Tips for Perfect KFC-Style Coleslaw

• Texture is key: The cabbage should be finely minced, not shredded. That’s what gives it the classic KFC mouthfeel.
• Rest time matters: The longer it chills, the more authentic it tastes.
• Use real buttermilk: It adds the signature tang and creaminess that makes this dressing stand out.
• Adjust sweetness: Some people prefer it slightly less sweet — you can reduce sugar to ¼ cup if desired.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Do not freeze, as the texture of the cabbage will become mushy once thawed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy, tangy, and perfectly sweet — just like KFC’s original
Simple ingredients — no preservatives or artificial flavors
Great make-ahead side dish for parties, BBQs, and picnics
Budget-friendly and family-approved