Make copycat KFC Coleslaw that’s better than the original! Everyone’s favorite fried chicken side dish is easy to replicate at home. This fresh coleslaw has a tangy buttermilk dressing that keeps you coming back for more.
I grew up LOVING Kentucky Fried Chicken, and to be honest, I think I love the coleslaw more than the chicken!
This recipe was originally published in July 2021. The recipe notes were updated in May 2025.
Aimee’s Recipe Notes
Taste & Texture: Creamy, tangly, and slightly sweet with finely chopped veggies for a crisp bite!
Prep Tips: Use a food processor to achieve the signature fine chop coleslaw from KFC.
Make Ahead: Prep this slaw anywhere from 2-24 hours ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve: Pairs well with fried chicken, pulled pork, or bring it to a potluck!
Top Tip: For a homemade buttermilk substitute, mix ¼ cup milk with 1 teaspoon lemon juice or white vinegar; let sit for 5 minutes before using.
This is definitely the best recipe for coleslaw I have ever made. Easy to make – way cheaper and a whole lot better than deli.
– Mary De Luca
Ingredient Notes
- Carrot. I like to buy a whole carrot and shred it myself. Store bought shredded carrots tend to dry out and use their flavor quickly.
- Cabbage. Just like the carrot, I recommend buying whole heads and shredding yourself.
- Buttermilk. My homemade buttermilk substitute can be used.
- Mayonnaise. Use real full fat mayo (not miracle whip) for best flavor.
How to Make KFC Cole Slaw
Shred the carrot and cabbage. Pulse the carrot and cabbage in a food processor until they form rice-sized pieces. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Mix dressing. Whisk together the buttermilk, mayonnaise, sugar, minced onion, lemon juice and vinegar. Pour dressing over the cabbage and carrots and toss.
Chill. Cover the bowl and chill coleslaw for 2 hours before serving.
Tips and Tricks
- Serve cold. KFC coleslaw tastes best straight from the fridge!
- Don’t rush the marinating. Leaving the slaw in the fridge for at least 2 hours helps the flavors fully develop and combine.
- Storing. Store prepared KFC coleslaw in the fridge and enjoy within 2 days for best freshness.
- Serve on a bun with root beer pulled pork!
More Potluck Recipes
- Whether it’s the classic Green Bean Casserole, in the Slow Cooker, or even in the Instant Pot, it always turns out delicious!
- This classic Banana Pudding is creamy, sweet, and filled with that fresh banana flavor!
- Make this easy Egg Salad Recipe for any event or function! Just be aware it might run out fast!
- This Rotel Dip is creamy, delicious, and perfect to dip our Homemade Bagel Chips in!
- Use this delicious and easy Broccoli Salad recipe to impress your friends, family, and neighbors!
- Love to replicate restaurant dishes at home? Me too. Check out this Panera Macaroni and Cheese for another copycat favorite! Or give our chick-fil-a coleslaw recipe a try too!
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KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 head cabbage finely chopped (about 8 cups)
- 1 carrot finely shredded and chopped (about 1/4 cup)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 Tablespoons white vinegar
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 Tablespoons minced onion
Instructions
- Chop and shred carrots and cabbage using a food processor, pulsing until they are about the size of rice. Do not OVER pulse. Pour into a large bowl. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, buttermilk, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, pepper, and minced onion.
- Pour dressing over carrot and cabbage mixture. Cover and refrigerate for about 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Serve cold. KFC coleslaw tastes best straight from the fridge!
- Don’t rush the marinating. Leaving the slaw in the fridge for at least 2 hours helps the flavors fully develop and combine.
- Storing. Store prepared KFC coleslaw in the fridge and enjoy within 2 days for best freshness.
- Serve on a bun with root beer pulled pork!
Nutrition
Easy to make, quick to assemble and oh-so-tasty, KFC Coleslaw is the best! You’ll love this copycat KFC recipe served with any chicken dinner.
So much fresher than takeout. Easy to make with food processor.
This is definitely the best recipe for coleslaw I have ever made. Easy to make – way cheaper and a whole lot better than deli . Have made it three times already as the family loves it. Thank you for sharing!
So glad you love it!
Are the minced onions you use in the KFC coleslaw dried?