KFC Coleslaw Recipe

Name: KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium green cabbage, shredded; 1 medium carrot, grated; 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup buttermilk; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Isabella

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Jump to Recipe

A creamy, tangy coleslaw with just the right touch of sweetness and crunch, this KFC Coleslaw Recipe brings all the nostalgic flavor of the iconic KFC side dish into my own kitchen. Whether I’m planning a summer cookout, serving up fried chicken, or just looking for something cool and refreshing to pair with a warm meal, this coleslaw always hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple and satisfying this KFC-style coleslaw is. It’s incredibly easy to throw together in under 15 minutes, and it always tastes like something much more complex thanks to the creamy buttermilk dressing and bright hints of vinegar and lemon. It works beautifully as a side dish for just about anything, from BBQ ribs to sandwiches. Plus, the texture—the crisp cabbage, the tender carrot—is so refreshing. It’s one of those recipes I keep going back to.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 medium green cabbage, shredded

1 medium carrot, grated

1/4 cup onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup buttermilk

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 tablespoons sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon pepper

Directions

I start by combining the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and chopped onion in a large bowl.

In another bowl, I whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

I pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss everything together until the veggies are fully coated.

Then I cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours. This step is key because it really lets the flavors blend together.

I serve it cold, usually alongside fried chicken, BBQ, or burgers—it’s a classic, comforting side.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes (plus 1–2 hours of chilling)

Calories per serving: 210 kcal

Variations

I sometimes like to add a little twist to this recipe depending on what I have on hand. For a spicier version, I’ll mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce. If I want it a little more tangy, I increase the vinegar slightly or substitute plain yogurt for part of the mayo. I’ve also added chopped green onions or red cabbage for color. And for a touch of extra sweetness, a grated apple works surprisingly well.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for about 3 days, though I find it’s best within the first two. I give it a good stir before serving again. Since it’s a cold dish, there’s no reheating necessary—just pull it from the fridge and enjoy.

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FAQs

How close is this to the real KFC coleslaw?

This version is very close in taste and texture. The balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet is almost identical to the original KFC coleslaw.

Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?

Absolutely. I actually prefer making it a day ahead so the flavors can really meld together overnight.

Can I use a food processor for chopping?

Yes, I sometimes use a food processor to shred the cabbage and carrots quickly. It saves time and gives a uniform texture.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

If I’m out of buttermilk, I mix regular milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5–10 minutes as a substitute.

Is this coleslaw gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this coleslaw are naturally gluten-free, but I always double-check the labels on mayonnaise and buttermilk just to be sure.

Conclusion

This KFC-style coleslaw is a staple in my kitchen when I need a reliable, delicious side that everyone will love. With its creamy dressing and fresh crunch, it’s perfect for any meal and incredibly easy to make. Whether I’m hosting guests or just want to relive a little fast-food nostalgia at home, this coleslaw delivers every time.