Copycat Kentucky Fried Chicken Coleslaw Recipe

Heya! Let’s chat about something super tasty—my Kentucky Fried Chicken Coleslaw Recipe! If you’ve had it straight from KFC, I’ll bet your mouth is watering already.

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Imagine crispy, cool cabbage and carrots swimming in a creamy dressing that’s sweet, tangy, and oh-so-addictive. This Kentucky Fried Chicken Coleslaw Recipe really hits the spot.

It’s like the perfect side dish stole the show from the crispy fried chicken! I’m spilling all the secrets to make this KFC coleslaw copycat recipe right in your own kitchen.

Trust me, it’s so good you’ll want to eat it with a spoon (that’s what Lily does)—no chicken required.

I first tried making this when I was craving that classic creamy coleslaw from the restaurant chain. I mean, who doesn’t love KFC’s coleslaw?

It’s the stuff of summer barbecues and family picnics. One time, I made a giant batch for a backyard barbecue. I thought it was plenty but it got DEVOURED!

It’s easy, it’s fun, and it’s got that tangy dressing that makes you go, “YUM!” You seriously can’t go wrong here.

So, grab a big bowl, and let’s whip up this Kentucky Fried Chicken Coleslaw recipe—it’s going to be a blast, I promise!

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Jump to:

• WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS:
• INGREDIENTS NEEDED (SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST FOR THE FULL RECIPE CARD):
• HOW TO MAKE KENTUCKY FRIED CHICKEN COLESLAW RECIPE:
• FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS RECIPE:
• DO I HAVE TO USE BUTTERMILK?
• CAN THIS BE MADE AHEAD?
• ANY ADDITIONS?
• ANY SUBSTITUTIONS?
• HOW TO STORE:
• DANA’S TIPS AND TRICKS:
• Copycat Kentucky Fried Chicken Coleslaw

1. Simple Stuff: You only need a handful of ingredients—no fancy secret ingredients here, just stuff from the grocery store!
2. Big Flavor: The apple cider vinegar and lemon juice give it that zingy kick that screams delicious coleslaw.
3. Easy Peasy: With a food processor, you’re chopping green cabbage like a pro in minutes—no sweat, all smiles!

• Mayonnaise
• Buttermilk
• Granulated sugar
• Milk
• Lemon juice
• Apple cider vinegar
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Green cabbage
• Medium carrots
• Grated sweet onion

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1. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, sugar, milk, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Large dice the cabbage, place it into a food processor, and pulse until it is finely chopped; you will need to do this in batches.
3. Add to the bowl with the dressing.
4. Peel the carrots and slice them, add to the food processor, and finely chop.
5. Place in the bowl with the cabbage along with the grated onion.
6. Stir well to combine everything, cover and place in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving or best overnight.

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DO I HAVE TO USE BUTTERMILK?

Yep, you do! That real buttermilk is the important ingredient that makes this kfc coleslaw copycat recipe taste legit.

It’s what gives it that smooth, tangy magic—no skipping it, sorry! If you need to, you can make a substitute using 1 cup milk and 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar.

It’s great in a pinch but real buttermilk will always taste better.

CAN THIS BE MADE AHEAD?

Oh, for sure! This cole slaw loves to chill.

Make it the day before your next picnic or summer potluck, pop it in the fridge, and it’s even better the next day.

The flavors get all cozy together—yum!

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ANY ADDITIONS?

It’s your homemade coleslaw recipe after all. Feel free to try out some new flavors like the ones below.

• Toss in some red cabbage for extra color—fancy, right?
• Sprinkle coleslaw mix with chopped apples for a sweet crunch.
• Add a drizzle of maple syrup for a twist on the tangy dressing.
• Top with crumbled buttermilk biscuits—weird, but wild!
• Mix in some shredded cabbage leftovers for more texture.
• Throw in a handful of raisins for a sweet surprise.
• Garnish with hot dogs bits (kidding—unless you’re into that!).
• Add a pinch of shredded cheese for creamy vibes.
• Sprinkle some sunflower seeds for a nutty bite.
• Stir in diced pickles for a tangy punch—trust me, it works!

ANY SUBSTITUTIONS?

Oh yeah, bring it on! I’ve always got a few ideas to throw in there.

• Use miracle whip instead of mayo for a sweeter vibe.
• Swap buttermilk with whole milk plus a splash of vinegar if you’re out.
• Try white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar—still zesty!
• Sub tarragon vinegar for a fancy twist on the lemon juice.
• Use coleslaw mix from the store if you’re skipping the food processor.
• Cut the sugar with less sugar or honey for a healthier kick.

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Refrigerator: Pop it in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap.

It’ll stay yummy for up to 4 days—perfect for store leftovers!

Freezer: You can freeze it, but it’s not the best coleslaw move.

The creamy dressing might get funky.

If you must, use an airtight container and eat within a month—thaw it slowly in the fridge.

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There you go! Your Kentucky Fried Chicken Coleslaw Recipe is ready to rock!

It’s the perfect side dish for chicken dishes or just eating straight from the bowl (no judgment here!).

Crunchy, creamy, and oh-so-tasty, this kfc coleslaw copycat recipe brings the restaurant favorites home.

So, make it, love it, and share it at your next picnic—or keep it all to yourself. Happy munching, you coleslaw champ!