KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe: Classic Creamy Southern Slaw Perfect for BBQs & Picnics

There’s something magical about KFC’s coleslaw – that perfect balance of sweet and tangy with a creamy, rich texture that makes it the ultimate side dish for fried chicken, BBQ, or sandwiches. After years of guesswork and countless taste tests, we’ve perfected the ultimate KFC coleslaw copycat recipe that captures that authentic flavor you love.

This classic coleslaw recipe is incredibly easy to make and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Whether you’re planning a summer BBQ, packing for a picnic, or just craving that signature Southern coleslaw taste, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Coleslaw Mix:

• 8 cups finely shredded green cabbage (about 1 medium head)
• 1/4 cup shredded carrot
• 2 tablespoons finely minced onion

For the Creamy Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 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

Finely shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or food processor. The key to authentic KFC-style coleslaw is very fine shreds, similar to what you’d find in the restaurant version. Combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, and minced onion in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and celery seed until smooth and well combined. The sugar should be completely dissolved.

Step 3: Combine and Chill

Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. This chilling time is crucial – it allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly, creating that perfect KFC coleslaw texture.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Give the coleslaw a final stir before serving. It’s perfect alongside easy chicken skillet dinners, as a topping for pulled pork sandwiches, or as a refreshing side for your next ultimate chili recipe dinner.

Expert Tips for Perfect Coleslaw

Shredding Technique: For the most authentic texture, aim for cabbage pieces about 1/8-inch thick. A mandoline slicer makes this easy, but a sharp knife works perfectly fine with a little patience.

Dressing Consistency: If your dressing seems too thick, add a tablespoon of buttermilk at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember that the cabbage will release some moisture as it sits.

Make it Your Own: Feel free to add a tablespoon of grated horseradish for extra zing, or swap half the green cabbage for red cabbage for a colorful presentation. This versatile slaw also makes an excellent topping for homemade pizza when you’re feeling creative.

Storage: This coleslaw keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually improve over time, making it perfect for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this coleslaw dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the buttermilk with unsweetened almond milk mixed with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, and use your favorite vegan mayonnaise.

How long does it need to chill?

For the best flavor, chill for at least 4 hours. Overnight is ideal as it allows the cabbage to soften and the flavors to fully develop.

Can I use bagged coleslaw mix?

Yes! A 14-ounce bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix works perfectly and saves time. Just be sure to dice the onion finely yourself for the best texture.

What makes this taste like KFC coleslaw?

The combination of buttermilk, precise sugar-to-vinegar ratio, and celery seed creates that signature sweet-tangy flavor profile that makes KFC coleslaw so distinctive. This recipe is perfect alongside other classic sides like our creamy white chicken chili for a complete meal.

Is this good for sandwiches?

Absolutely! This creamy coleslaw is perfect for topping pulled pork sandwiches, chicken sandwiches, or even as a refreshing addition to your next keto Philly cheesesteak rolls for a crisp contrast to the rich flavors.

KFC Coleslaw Copycat Recipe

This KFC coleslaw copycat recipe captures the authentic sweet and tangy flavor of the classic Southern side dish. It features finely shredded cabbage with a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, buttermilk, and a perfect balance of sweet and tangy ingredients.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 120

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Ingredients

• 8 cups finely shredded green cabbage (about 1 medium head)
• 1/4 cup shredded carrot
• 2 tablespoons finely minced onion
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 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. Finely shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or food processor. Combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, and minced onion in a large mixing bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, 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 until everything is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight.
4. Give the coleslaw a final stir before serving.

Notes

Chill for at least 4 hours (overnight is ideal) for best flavor and texture. The cabbage will soften as it sits. Can be stored in refrigerator for up to 5 days.