KFC-Style Coleslaw — Creamy, Tangy, and Just Like the Original (Only Better!)
This KFC-Style Coleslaw is the ultimate side dish. The secret to that iconic flavor isn’t just the sugar—it’s the mix of buttermilk and lemon juice. Together, they create a complex tang that plain vinegar alone can’t achieve. Chilling the slaw allows the dressing to draw just enough moisture from the cabbage, forming that signature creamy “soup” at the bottom of the bowl that everyone loves.
Copycat KFC-Style Coleslaw
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Coleslaw mix (or shredded green/red cabbage) | 8 cups |
| Shredded carrots | 1 cup |
| Yellow or white onion, finely minced | ¼ cup |
| Mayonnaise (full-fat preferred) | 1½ cups |
| Buttermilk | ⅓ cup |
| Milk (whole or 2%) | 2 tablespoons |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| White vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
How to Make Copycat KFC-Style Coleslaw:
Step 1: Prep the Veggies
If you’re not using a pre-packaged mix, shred your cabbage very thinly. In a large bowl, toss together the cabbage, carrots, and minced onion.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, milk, sugar, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and silky, with the sugar completely dissolved.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and fold gently to coat all the vegetables. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours—overnight is ideal for the best flavor and texture.
Step 4: Stir and Serve
Give the slaw a good stir before serving to redistribute the creamy dressing that has settled at the bottom. Serve chilled.
