KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Introduction
This classic KFC-style coleslaw is creamy, tangy, and perfectly crunchy, making it a delicious side dish for any meal. With finely chopped vegetables and a flavorful dressing, it’s simple to prepare and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients
- 4 cups finely chopped cabbage
- ½ medium carrot, very finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons onion, minced
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk
- 4 teaspoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 4 teaspoons granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Finely chop the cabbage and carrot using a food processor for the best texture. Combine them in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- Step 2: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the onion, buttermilk, white vinegar, milk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth.
- Step 3: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture, stirring well to coat everything evenly.
- Step 4: Cover the coleslaw and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips & Variations
- For a healthier option, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, add an extra teaspoon of sugar to the dressing.
- Use a mandoline slicer if you don’t have a food processor to achieve fine chopping.
- Add a pinch of celery seed to the dressing for an authentic coleslaw flavor.
- Make the coleslaw a few hours ahead to deepen the taste, but avoid making it more than 24 hours in advance to keep the vegetables crisp.
Storage
Store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir before serving and add a splash of milk if it thickens too much. This coleslaw is best enjoyed fresh to maintain its crisp texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this coleslaw without buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with 1 teaspoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the tangy flavor.
How do I keep coleslaw from becoming watery?
Drain any excess liquid from the chopped vegetables before mixing with the dressing, and always chill the coleslaw before serving to help it thicken up.
PrintKFC Coleslaw Recipe
This classic KFC coleslaw recipe delivers a creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced side dish that’s easy to make at home. Featuring finely chopped cabbage and carrots tossed in a smooth dressing of mayonnaise, buttermilk, lemon juice, and a hint of sugar and vinegar, this coleslaw is crisp, refreshing, and the perfect complement to fried chicken or BBQ meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups finely chopped cabbage
- ½ medium carrot, very finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons onion, minced
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk
- 4 teaspoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 4 teaspoons granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Finely chop the cabbage and carrot, ideally using a food processor for uniform pieces. Combine the chopped cabbage, carrot, and minced onion in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- Make the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, white vinegar, milk, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated evenly with the dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld and the coleslaw to chill for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For best texture, finely chopping the vegetables is key to mimicking the classic KFC coleslaw consistency.
- Chilling for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor integration but can be left longer for a colder dish.
- Adjust sugar and vinegar to taste if you prefer it sweeter or tangier.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best brightness in flavor.
- Buttermilk can be substituted with regular milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice added as a quick souring agent in a pinch.
Keywords: KFC coleslaw, classic coleslaw recipe, creamy coleslaw, homemade coleslaw, side dish, easy coleslaw

