Dessert

KFC Copycat Coleslaw Recipe

ByAiden Wells November 27, 2025November 27, 2025

Introduction

This KFC Copycat Coleslaw offers a creamy, tangy twist on the classic side dish you love. Made with finely chopped cabbage and carrot, it’s dressed in a smooth, flavorful mixture that’s perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a refreshing accompaniment to any meal.

Ingredients

½ head cabbage, finely chopped (about 4 cups)
½ medium carrot, finely chopped
2 tablespoons buttermilk
4¼ teaspoons white vinegar
1½ tablespoons onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons whole milk
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 teaspoons lemon juice
4 teaspoons sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
⅜ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Using a food processor, pulse the cabbage until finely chopped, working in small batches to avoid pulverizing it. Repeat the process with the carrot. Transfer both to a medium bowl.
Step 2: In a separate small bowl, combine buttermilk, white vinegar, chopped onion, whole milk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture and stir well. It may seem dry initially, but the cabbage will release moisture over time.
Step 4: Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the cabbage soften slightly. Stir before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, use a mix of red and green cabbage.
If you don’t have buttermilk, substitute with regular milk mixed with 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar.
Add a pinch of celery seed for a more classic coleslaw flavor.

Storage

Store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again. It’s best enjoyed chilled and can be refreshed with a bit of extra lemon juice or mayonnaise if it dries out slightly.

How to Serve

A large white bowl filled with finely chopped coleslaw, showing a mix of pale green cabbage, small bright orange carrot pieces, and light white bits of onion or dressing evenly spread throughout. A silver spoon is scooping some coleslaw from the bowl, positioned near the center, with the texture looking creamy but chunky. In the background, there is a smaller white bowl with more coleslaw and some golden brown rolls on a wooden board, all sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes, making it a few hours or even a day ahead allows the flavors to develop beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated and give it a good stir before serving.

What if I don’t have a food processor?

You can finely chop the cabbage and carrot by hand using a sharp knife. It may take a bit longer but will yield delicious results just the same.