KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe – The Ultimate Southern-Style Creamy Slaw

Craving that iconic creamy, sweet-tangy coleslaw you love from KFC? Our copycat recipe delivers the exact flavor profile you remember, with crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, and a perfectly balanced creamy dressing that makes this the ultimate BBQ side dish, picnic favorite, and sandwich topper. This easy homemade version comes together in just minutes but tastes like it took hours to perfect.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head green cabbage, finely shredded
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon celery seed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables by finely shredding the cabbage, grating the carrots, and finely chopping the onion if using. Place all vegetables in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, buttermilk, sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and celery seed until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all vegetables evenly.

Step 4: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.

Step 5: Before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled.

Expert Tips

• For the crispiest texture: Use very fresh, crisp cabbage and avoid over-mixing
• Make ahead: This coleslaw actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop
• Creamier option: Add an extra 1/4 cup mayonnaise for an even creamier texture
• Healthier version: Substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy kick

FAQ

How long does homemade coleslaw last?
Properly stored in an airtight container, this coleslaw will keep for 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make this coleslaw without buttermilk?
Yes! You can substitute regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar added, or use all regular milk for a slightly less tangy result.

What’s the best way to shred cabbage for coleslaw?
Use a mandoline slicer for uniform thin slices, or a sharp knife for traditional chopped coleslaw texture.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Red cabbage, bell peppers, or even shredded broccoli stems make great additions.

KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe – The Ultimate Southern-Style Creamy Slaw

This KFC coleslaw copycat recipe delivers the iconic creamy, sweet-tangy flavor profile with crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, and perfectly balanced dressing. It’s an easy homemade version that comes together in minutes but tastes like it took hours to perfect, making it ideal for BBQs, picnics, and sandwiches.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 280

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Ingredients

• 1 medium head green cabbage, finely shredded
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon celery seed

Method

 

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables by finely shredding the cabbage, grating the carrots, and finely chopping the onion if using. Place all vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
2. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, buttermilk, sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and celery seed until smooth and well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all vegetables evenly.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.
5. Before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled.

Notes

For crispiest texture: Use very fresh cabbage and avoid over-mixing. Make ahead: Tastes better the next day as flavors develop. Healthier version: Substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise.