KFC Coleslaw (Copycat) – Easy, Creamy & Just Like the Original!

Let’s be honest. When I order fried chicken, it’s not complete without that chilled, creamy side of KFC coleslaw. The flavor, the crunch, the way it balances out something hot and crispy—it’s pure comfort food magic. And because I can’t justify takeout every week (no matter how much I want to), I finally nailed a KFC Coleslaw (Copycat) recipe that tastes just like the real thing—maybe better.

It’s the perfect mix of sweet and tangy, ultra-creamy, and ridiculously easy to make at home with simple pantry ingredients. Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight or hosting a backyard BBQ, this coleslaw deserves a spot on your table.

Why This KFC Coleslaw Copycat Will Be Your Go-To Side

This recipe is a keeper for so many reasons:

• Just like the original KFC coleslaw in flavor and texture
• Budget-friendly and great for meal prep
• Crowd-pleaser that pairs with everything
• Easy to make with or without a food processor
• Gets better the longer it chills in the fridge

If you’ve ever searched for the “KFC coleslaw recipe by ex employee,” you’re not alone. But you don’t need secrets to make something amazing—you just need this recipe.

Ingredients – What’s in KFC Coleslaw (Copycat)?

This version sticks closely to the real deal. Here’s everything you’ll need for the base and the dressing.

For the cabbage mix:

• 8 cups finely chopped cabbage (I use the food processor with a shredding disc)
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and shredded
• 2 tablespoons grated onion (white or yellow)

For the dressing:

• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup buttermilk (or use powdered mix + water)
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice

No buttermilk on hand? Make a quick sub: mix 1/4 cup milk with 1 tsp lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit 5 minutes.

How to Make KFC Coleslaw (Copycat)

This recipe comes together in about 15 minutes—plus chill time.

Step 1: Prep the veggies

• Shred the cabbage and carrot using a food processor or a sharp knife.
• Grate the onion finely—you want the flavor, not big chunks.
• Add everything to a large mixing bowl.

And Step 2: Make the dressing

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, salt, pepper, milk, mayo, buttermilk, vinegar, and lemon juice.
• Mix until smooth, creamy, and slightly thickened.

Step 3: Mix it all together

• Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture.
• Use a spatula or clean hands to toss until fully coated.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Quick tip: If you can wait until the next day, do it. The flavors deepen and the texture gets even better.

Real Life Tips for the Best KFC Copycat Coleslaw

This recipe is super flexible, and over the years I’ve picked up a few tricks that make it even better.

Texture is everything

• Don’t use pre-shredded cabbage—it’s too thick.
• The closer you can get to a fine dice, the more authentic it tastes.

Dressing ratio

• This is a creamy coleslaw, so don’t skimp on the dressing.
• If it looks like too much at first, trust the process—the cabbage absorbs it.

Make ahead for flavor

• This is the best make-ahead slaw I’ve ever made.
• It holds up well in the fridge for 3–4 days.

Serving Suggestions – What Goes with KFC Coleslaw?

This cool, creamy slaw goes with almost everything, but especially:

• Southern Fried Chicken — “Pair this Southern Fried Chicken with our creamy KFC-style coleslaw for a classic comfort meal.”
• Potato Salad — “Looking for more sides? Try this hearty Potato Salad alongside your homemade coleslaw.”
• Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken — “Balance the sweet heat of this Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken with the cool crunch of KFC coleslaw.”

It’s also perfect with burgers, ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, or grilled hot dogs at your next cookout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes KFC coleslaw so good?

It’s all about the finely chopped cabbage and that signature sweet-tangy dressing.

What’s in KFC coleslaw dressing?

Mayo, buttermilk, lemon juice, vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. That combo hits every flavor note.

Does KFC coleslaw have horseradish?

Nope! There’s no horseradish. Just onion for flavor.

Can I make this coleslaw dairy-free?

Yes—use non-dairy milk and a vegan mayo. It’ll still be creamy and tasty.

How long will it last in the fridge?

This keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving – ~1/2 cup)

• Calories: ~180
• Fat: ~13g
• Carbs: ~14g
• Sugar: ~11g
• Protein: ~1g

These are estimates and can vary depending on brands used.

Pin It for Later!

If you’re planning a party, potluck, or just want a side that everyone loves, don’t forget to save this to your board. You can find it over on Pinterest – Ritzy Recipes!

Final Thoughts: This KFC Coleslaw Copycat is Pure Gold

I love this KFC Coleslaw (Copycat) recipe because it never fails. It’s easy, fast, and so satisfying. Every time I serve it, someone says, “This tastes just like KFC!”

The best part? I know exactly what’s in it—no preservatives, no mystery ingredients. Just honest, homemade goodness.

If you try it, I’d love to know how it turns out. Leave a comment below, share it with your friends, or tag me over on Pinterest @ritzyrecipes.

Thanks for being here in my kitchen. ❤️

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