Famous KFC Coleslaw Classic Recipe
Introduction
This classic coleslaw recipe recreates the famous KFC flavor with a creamy, tangy dressing and finely chopped vegetables. It’s perfect as a refreshing side dish for fried chicken or any barbecue meal.

Ingredients
- 120 ml mayonnaise
- 65 g granulated sugar
- 60 ml whole milk
- 60 ml buttermilk
- 38 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 22 ml distilled white vinegar
- 3 g fine sea salt
- 0.5 g ground black pepper
- 800 g finely chopped green cabbage
- 30 g shredded carrot
- 20 g minced white onion
Instructions
- Step 1: Finely chop the green cabbage and carrot to a uniform, rice-sized consistency. Mince the white onion finely as well.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, granulated sugar, whole milk, buttermilk, freshly squeezed lemon juice, distilled white vinegar, salt, and ground black pepper until the dressing is smooth and fully emulsified.
- Step 3: Add the chopped cabbage, shredded carrot, and minced onion to the dressing. Mix thoroughly until all the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Step 4: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to blend. For best taste and texture, let it rest overnight before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, try adding a handful of finely chopped celery or green onions.
- Adjust the sugar quantity to balance the tanginess according to your preference.
- For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Storage
Store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving if separation occurs. It is best enjoyed cold and should be consumed within a few days for optimal freshness.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this coleslaw in advance?
Yes, making it the day before allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a richer taste and better texture.
What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can substitute buttermilk with an equal amount of milk mixed with one teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar; let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
PrintFamous KFC Coleslaw Classic Recipe
This recipe recreates the famous KFC classic coleslaw, featuring finely chopped cabbage, carrot, and onion tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing made with mayonnaise, buttermilk, and lemon juice. It’s a perfect side dish that delivers a crisp texture and deliciously balanced flavors, ideal for pairing with fried chicken or as a refreshing salad on its own.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: About 8 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dressing
- 120 ml mayonnaise
- 65 g granulated sugar
- 60 ml whole milk
- 60 ml buttermilk
- 38 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 22 ml distilled white vinegar
- 3 g fine sea salt
- 0.5 g ground black pepper
Vegetables
- 800 g finely chopped green cabbage
- 30 g shredded carrot
- 20 g minced white onion
Instructions
- Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the green cabbage and shred the carrot to a uniform, small, rice-like consistency to achieve an authentic texture. Mince the white onion finely.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, whole milk, buttermilk, freshly squeezed lemon juice, distilled white vinegar, fine sea salt, and ground black pepper vigorously until the mixture is smooth and fully emulsified, creating a creamy and tangy dressing base.
- Combine and Coat: Add the chopped cabbage, shredded carrot, and minced white onion into the bowl with the dressing. Mix thoroughly until all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dressing to properly soak into the vegetables. For optimal taste and texture, ideally let it rest overnight before serving.
Notes
- For best texture, ensure the cabbage and carrot are chopped finely and uniformly.
- Allow sufficient chilling time, preferably overnight, for the flavors to fully develop.
- You can adjust sugar and salt to taste depending on your preference.
- This coleslaw is best served cold as a side dish.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days.
Keywords: KFC coleslaw, classic coleslaw recipe, creamy coleslaw, homemade coleslaw, side dish, American salad, coleslaw dressing, picnic salad

