Famous KFC Coleslaw Classic – The Creamy Copycat Recipe You’ll Crave
When it comes to iconic side dishes, KFC Coleslaw holds a special place in the hearts (and plates) of millions. That creamy, tangy, slightly sweet crunch is the perfect partner to fried chicken, BBQ, burgers, and more. Now, you don’t have to run to the drive-thru — this Famous KFC Coleslaw Classic copycat recipe delivers the same refreshing flavor and texture right at home.
It’s cool, creamy, and ridiculously easy to make. The secret? The perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and finely chopped cabbage that gives KFC’s coleslaw its signature texture.
Why Everyone Loves KFC Coleslaw
There’s something nostalgic about KFC’s coleslaw. It’s not just a salad — it’s a memory of summer picnics, family dinners, and crispy fried chicken nights. The dressing has the ideal combination of mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, and lemon juice that coats each bite without making it soggy.
This homemade version tastes identical to the original — if not better — because it’s made fresh and chilled just right.
What Makes This Coleslaw “Famous”
Unlike typical slaw recipes that use large shreds of cabbage, KFC-style coleslaw is made with finely chopped cabbage and carrots. The texture is more delicate and uniform, allowing the creamy dressing to cling perfectly to every piece.
The dressing is a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, buttermilk (or milk and lemon juice), sugar, and vinegar. Together, they create that addictive sweet-and-tangy flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Coleslaw Base
- 8 cups finely chopped green cabbage (about 1 medium head)
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and finely grated
- 2 tablespoons minced white onion (optional, but authentic)
For the Creamy Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise (use full-fat for the best flavor)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup buttermilk (or substitute milk + 1 teaspoon lemon juice)
- 1½ tablespoons white vinegar
- 2½ tablespoons lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prep the vegetables:
Finely chop the cabbage and carrots. The texture should be small, like the KFC original — not long shreds. You can use a food processor with the pulse setting for even consistency. - Make the dressing:
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, milk, buttermilk, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. - Combine:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cabbage, carrots, and onion. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and mix until everything is thoroughly coated. - Chill:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly — just like the real thing. - Serve:
Stir before serving. Enjoy as a side with fried chicken, BBQ, or any summer meal.
Famous KFC Coleslaw Classic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Finely chop cabbage and carrots using a food processor or knife.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, milk, buttermilk, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, and onion. Pour dressing over and mix well.
- Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Stir before serving and enjoy chilled.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Copycat KFC Coleslaw
- Chop, don’t shred: KFC coleslaw is finely minced, not coarsely shredded. Pulse a few times in a food processor for that perfect texture.
- Chill well: The coleslaw tastes best after resting in the fridge overnight — the dressing becomes thicker and creamier.
- Don’t skip the sugar: The sweetness balances the tang and is key to the authentic KFC flavor.
- Use fresh lemon juice: It gives the dressing a clean, zesty brightness that bottled juice can’t replicate.
- Buttermilk is best: It adds richness and depth, but milk with lemon juice works beautifully in a pinch.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make ahead: This coleslaw is actually better when made in advance! Prepare it the night before serving.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not freeze — the texture will become watery and mushy.
Serving Ideas
KFC Coleslaw isn’t just for fried chicken nights! Here are some other delicious ways to serve it:
- With BBQ pulled pork – the tangy creaminess cuts through the smoky flavor perfectly.
- On fish tacos – adds crunch and creaminess.
- As a sandwich topping – try it on fried chicken sandwiches or sliders.
- Alongside summer BBQ favorites – ribs, burgers, or grilled corn.
- As a picnic salad – stays creamy and cool even after hours in the fridge.
Variations to Try
- Lightened-Up Version: Use Greek yogurt in place of half the mayonnaise for a lighter but still creamy result.
- Dijon Twist: Add ½ teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a little kick.
- Sweet Heat: Mix in a few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a subtle spicy note.
- Apple Slaw: Add ½ cup finely chopped green apple for a sweet and tart crunch.
The Secret Behind KFC’s Famous Flavor
KFC’s coleslaw is legendary because of its precise balance — not too tangy, not too sweet, and perfectly creamy. The combination of lemon juice and vinegar gives it that signature tang, while sugar mellows it out.
The texture also plays a big role. Finely chopped cabbage ensures every bite is coated evenly in dressing, creating that signature creamy consistency that fans love.
A Little History: KFC’s Signature Sides
KFC introduced its famous coleslaw in the 1940s, and it quickly became one of the chain’s most beloved menu items. Its bright, refreshing flavor provided the perfect contrast to the crispy, salty fried chicken — and decades later, it’s still the ultimate comfort-food pairing.
By recreating this timeless side dish at home, you’re bringing a piece of fast-food history right to your table — without the takeout box.
Nutritional Benefits
While KFC coleslaw isn’t diet food, making it at home gives you control over the ingredients. You can use lighter mayonnaise or cut back on sugar if you prefer. Plus, cabbage is naturally rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
So even though this dish feels indulgent, it still delivers nutritional goodness with every creamy bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use non-dairy milk (like almond or oat) and skip the buttermilk. Add a splash more lemon juice for tang.
Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix?
You can, but for the authentic KFC texture, pulse it in a food processor a few times to make the pieces finer.
How long does it last?
Up to 3 days in the fridge. Always stir before serving.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! This coleslaw is perfect for potlucks, picnics, and BBQs — it scales up easily.
The Bottom Line
This Famous KFC Coleslaw Classic recipe is creamy, tangy, and perfectly sweet — everything you love about the original, made fresh in your own kitchen. Whether you’re serving it with crispy fried chicken, smoky BBQ, or a picnic spread, it’s guaranteed to steal the show.
Simple ingredients, quick prep, and that unmistakable flavor make this one of the best copycat recipes you’ll ever try. Once you taste it, you’ll never go back to store-bought slaw again.
So grab your cabbage and whip up a bowl of this legendary side — your next family meal is about to get a whole lot more delicious.
