Craving that iconic creamy crunch from KFC’s coleslaw? What if I told you that you can recreate that tangy, sweet magic right at home, with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen?

This KFC Coleslaw Copycat recipe delivers the perfect balance of creaminess, crunch, and that signature zesty-sweet flavor. It makes a stellar side dish for BBQs, fried chicken nights, or even as a topping in your pulled pork sandwiches. Once you try this at home, you might not go back to the drive-thru again.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the perfect KFC-style coleslaw, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools that make the prep fast and consistent:

Large Mixing Bowl: This will be your base for combining the shredded veggies and the dressing evenly.
Sharp Chef’s Knife or Mandoline Slicer: For finely chopping or shredding the cabbage and carrots. Uniform thin slices help mimic the texture of KFC’s version.
Grater or Food Processor: Speeds up the shredding process, especially if you’re doubling the batch for a party.
Whisk: Essential for emulsifying the dressing so it becomes ultra-creamy and smooth.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters in this recipe—especially when balancing sugar, vinegar, and mayo.

Each of these tools ensures that the texture and flavor match the creamy, finely chopped style we all know and love from KFC’s coleslaw.

Ingredients for the KFC Coleslaw Copycat

Green Cabbage: The core of this recipe. Use fresh, firm cabbage and shred it finely for the best texture.
Carrots: Add subtle sweetness and color. They blend in beautifully with the creamy dressing.
Onion: Just a hint gives it depth and that recognizable zing. Use white or yellow onion and finely grate it.
Mayonnaise: It creates the base of that silky, tangy dressing. Go for full-fat for the creamiest results.
Buttermilk: Adds tang and helps thin out the mayo for a pourable texture.
White Vinegar: Key to that signature sharp bite.
Lemon Juice: Brightens everything and balances the richness.
Granulated Sugar: Don’t skip it. The sweetness balances the acidity and rounds out the flavor.
Salt & Pepper: To taste, just enough to enhance the overall flavor.

How To Make the KFC Coleslaw Copycat

Step 1: Finely Shred the Vegetables

Chop the cabbage into very thin pieces using a sharp knife or food processor. Do the same with the carrots. Finely grate or mince the onion. The finer, the better—think KFC texture!

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, sugar, white vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Combine and Chill

Add the chopped vegetables into a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and mix thoroughly until every piece is well coated.

Step 4: Refrigerate for Maximum Flavor

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours—preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the coleslaw to soften just slightly, creating that authentic creamy crunch.

Serving and Storing This Creamy Coleslaw

This coleslaw is best served cold, making it a refreshing side for hot and crispy main dishes like fried chicken, barbecue ribs, or pulled pork sandwiches. It’s also perfect piled onto burgers or fish tacos for added crunch.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for 3-4 days, though the texture may soften slightly over time. Stir before serving to refresh the dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How close does this taste to real KFC coleslaw?

Very close! The tangy-sweet flavor and finely shredded texture are spot on. Many testers couldn’t tell the difference.

Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix?

Yes, in a pinch. But chopping fresh cabbage and carrots gives the best texture and flavor.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can mix 1/2 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with 1/4 cup milk and let it sit for 5 minutes as a quick substitute.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes—just make sure your mayonnaise and vinegar are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely. In fact, it’s better when made a day ahead so the flavors have time to develop.

Want More Salad and Side Dish Ideas?

You might also like the Italian Grinder Salad if you’re into bold, deli-style flavors with crispy lettuce and zippy dressing.

The California Spaghetti Salad is another vibrant side that’s perfect for summer gatherings.

For cozy bowls, check out the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup or the hearty Tuscan Bean Soup, especially if you need something warm to balance a cold coleslaw.

For more creamy comfort, the Crockpot Mac and Cheese never misses.