A perfectly crunchy, cool, and creamy coleslaw that tastes just like the beloved KFC classic—made easily at home with simple ingredients and quick prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this coleslaw nails the texture and flavor of the original—those tiny, bite‑sized cabbage and carrot pieces tossed in a tangy, slightly sweet creamy dressing. It’s crisp, refreshing, and the kind of side dish that elevates any meal—perfect with fried chicken or as a standalone salad. Plus, it’s easy to double for gatherings or prep ahead for busy weeks.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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

Directions

Chop the vegetables
I pulse cabbage and carrot in a food processor until tiny squares form—not mush. If I don’t have a processor, I finely chop by hand.
Make the dressing
I whisk together mayo, buttermilk, milk, vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine
I pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture, stir well—even if it seems dry at first, it’ll release moisture as it chills.
Chill
I refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving. Giving it several hours or even overnight makes flavors meld beautifully.

Servings and timing

Servings: 5
Prep time: ~15 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes to overnight
Total time: ~45 minutes

Variations

No food processor? Finely chop cabbage & carrot by hand for a rustic texture.
No buttermilk? Use half‑and‑half and increase sugar by 1 tsp.
Tangier twist? Add an extra teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
Crunch boost? Stir in chopped green onion or a touch of celery seed.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Before serving: I stir it again to redistribute any settling dressing and adjust seasoning if needed.
Do not freeze: Freezing breaks down the cabbage texture.

FAQs

What’s the best way to chop cabbage and carrot?

I use a food processor with short pulses for that classic tiny, squared texture. Hand‑chopping works too—takes more time but still great.

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, but if you swap in half‑and‑half, I add an extra teaspoon of sugar since it’s less tangy.

How long should I chill the slaw?

At least 30 minutes is good, but I get the best flavor if I let it sit for several hours or even overnight.

Will this recipe work with bagged coleslaw mix?

It’ll taste fine, but it won’t have the same tiny‑chunk texture I love. The texture is part of what makes it feel like the original.

Can I meal‑prep this?

Absolutely. I chop everything, mix dressing, and toss it together 30 minutes before serving—it keeps well for a few days.

Conclusion

I’m always amazed how this simple combination of finely chopped cabbage and carrot with a creamy, tangy dressing perfectly replicates KFC coleslaw. With minimal prep, make‑ahead flexibility, and that refreshing crunch, it's a staple side for my meals. Whether for chicken night, a BBQ, or lunchbox salads, I know this coleslaw delivers every time.

KFC Copycat Coleslaw

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Author: Sue
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 5 servings
Category: Side Dish
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A perfectly crunchy, cool, and creamy coleslaw that tastes just like the beloved KFC classic—made easily at home with simple ingredients and quick prep.

Instructions

Pulse cabbage and carrot in a food processor until finely chopped into small squares, or finely chop by hand.
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, milk, vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the chopped vegetables and stir thoroughly. It may seem dry at first but will become creamier as it chills.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. For best flavor, chill for several hours or overnight.