🥗 KFC Coleslaw Recipe – OMG Don’t Lose This!
🥗 KFC Coleslaw Recipe – OMG Don’t Lose This!
Few side dishes evoke nostalgia quite like a creamy, tangy coleslaw. Whether it’s sitting next to a plate of golden fried chicken or topping a picnic table in the summer, coleslaw has a way of making meals feel special. And let’s be honest: there’s something magical about that iconic KFC coleslaw. Sweet, tangy, and perfectly crunchy, it’s a classic that brings smiles to everyone’s face.
I first tried this recipe years ago while hosting a family cookout. I wanted to recreate the KFC experience at home, and after a few tweaks and careful measurements, this coleslaw came close enough to the original to impress even the pickiest of eaters. It’s creamy, slightly sweet, and just the right amount of tang from the lemon juice and vinegar — plus, finely chopped cabbage ensures every bite is tender and easy to enjoy.
What I love about this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. Just a few pantry staples, some finely chopped vegetables, and patience while it chills. Letting it rest for a couple of hours — or even overnight — allows the flavors to meld perfectly, giving you that authentic, restaurant-quality taste.
🥗 KFC Coleslaw Recipe – OMG Don’t Lose This
Ingredients
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup buttermilk
2 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
8 cups finely chopped cabbage (approx. 1 head)
1/4 cup shredded carrot (1 medium carrot)
2 tablespoons minced onion
Instructions
Be sure cabbage and carrots are chopped into very fine pieces (a little bigger than rice)
Combine the mayonnaise, sugar, milk, buttermilk, lemon juice, vinegar, salt and pepper in large bowl. Beat until smooth
Add cabbage, carrots, and onions. Mix well.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, if you let it sit overnight it’s even better
Serves 10-12
💡 Tips & Tricks for Perfect KFC Coleslaw
Even a simple coleslaw can shine with a few insider tricks:
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Finely chop the veggies: The key to this coleslaw is that fine, almost rice-like texture for both cabbage and carrots. It makes the salad creamy and easy to eat.
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Chill for flavor: Refrigerating for at least 2 hours allows the dressing to penetrate the cabbage for full flavor. Overnight is even better.
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Adjust sweetness: If you like a sweeter slaw, add a little more sugar; for a tangier version, increase the lemon juice slightly.
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Mix gently: Stirring gently prevents the cabbage from releasing too much liquid and keeps the texture crisp.
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Make ahead: This recipe is great for meal prep — the flavor actually improves after sitting a day.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
This coleslaw pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to your table:
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Fried chicken: Of course, nothing beats KFC-style chicken and coleslaw for a classic comfort meal.
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Sandwiches and burgers: Add a scoop on top of a pulled pork sandwich or burger for extra crunch and tang.
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Picnic side: Perfect for cookouts, potlucks, or any summer gathering.
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Snack bowls: Pair with crackers or tortilla chips for a lighter, crunchy snack.
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Taco topping: A twist on the usual slaw, it adds creaminess to fish or chicken tacos.
Pro tip: Garnish with a small sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a little herbal brightness.
🧊 Storage & Shelf Life
KFC-style coleslaw stores well if you follow these tips:
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Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Stir before serving to redistribute dressing.
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Avoid freezing: Freezing can make the cabbage watery and lose its crisp texture.
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Make ahead: Prepare a day in advance to allow the flavors to fully develop.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes! Buttermilk gives a slightly tangier flavor, but regular milk will still work.
2. Can I prepare this without sugar?
You can reduce the sugar slightly, but the sweetness balances the tanginess and gives it the classic KFC flavor.
3. How finely should I chop the cabbage?
Aim for a texture slightly larger than rice. This allows the dressing to coat each piece evenly and keeps the salad creamy.
4. Can I make this vegan?
Yes — substitute mayonnaise and buttermilk with plant-based versions, and it will still taste creamy and delicious.
