Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe

KFC’s coleslaw is the cool, creamy, sweet-tangy side that completes a bucket meal — and it’s famously finely chopped, almost minced. This copycat nails that signature texture and dressing exactly. It’s the perfect make-ahead side for fried chicken, barbecue, and summer cookouts.

Why You’ll Love This Coleslaw

• Sweet, tangy, and creamy — the exact KFC flavor.
• Finely chopped — that signature soft, minced texture.
• Make-ahead — even better after chilling overnight.
• Crowd favorite — perfect for cookouts and potlucks.

The Ingredients That Matter

• Finely chopped cabbage — the KFC signature; chop it small, almost minced, not shredded.
• Buttermilk + milk — the secret to the creamy, slightly tangy dressing.
• Sugar, lemon juice, and vinegar — the sweet-tart balance that defines it.

How to Make It

Finely chop the cabbage and carrot, whisk the creamy dressing, toss to coat, and chill. Full measurements are in the recipe card below.

Pro Tips

• Chop it fine — a food processor (pulsed, not pureed) gets the authentic KFC texture fast.
• Chill before serving — at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, so the flavors meld and the cabbage softens.
• Don’t skip the buttermilk — it’s the tangy secret.

Copycat KFC Coleslaw

Copycat KFC coleslaw - finely chopped cabbage in a creamy, sweet-tangy dressing. The perfect cool, crunchy side that tastes just like the bucket meal classic.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 140

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 8 cups green cabbage finely chopped
• 1/4 cup carrot finely grated
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar

Equipment

• Large bowl

Method

 

1. Finely chop the cabbage and grate the carrot into a large bowl.
2. Whisk together the mayo, sugar, milk, buttermilk, lemon juice, and vinegar until smooth.
3. Pour over the cabbage and toss to coat.
4. Cover and chill at least 2 hours (or overnight) before serving.

Notes

Chop the cabbage very fine - that's the KFC signature. Chilling is essential so the flavors meld and the slaw softens slightly.

What to Serve With It

It’s the classic partner for fried chicken — serve it alongside Copycat Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers for a homemade bucket meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far ahead can I make it?

Up to a day ahead — in fact it tastes best after chilling overnight as the flavors meld.

How do I get the cabbage so fine?

Pulse it in a food processor in small batches, being careful not to puree it. That’s the KFC texture.

Can I make it lighter?

Use light mayo or swap some for Greek yogurt; reduce the sugar to taste.

More Copycat Sides

Pair it with Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers for the full fried-chicken spread.

More Copycat Recipes You’ll Love

👉 Browse all KFC copycat recipes

• Copycat KFC Original Fried Chicken
• Copycat KFC Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
• Copycat KFC Mac and Cheese
• Copycat Raising Cane’s Sauce Recipe
• Copycat Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers Recipe