If you’re obsessed with that creamy, tangy, sweet crunch of KFC’s coleslaw recipe, you’re in for a treat. This copycat recipe nails it—and the best part? It comes together in minutes using basic ingredients you probably already have on hand. Whether you’re throwing together a backyard BBQ or just need a quick side for dinner, this homemade KFC coleslaw is a total crowd-pleaser.

KFC Coleslaw Recipe

I’ve tested and tweaked this coleslaw recipe to get it as close to the original as possible—creamy, with that signature hint of sweetness and just the right tang from buttermilk and lemon juice. It’s the perfect companion for fried chicken, burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, or even as a topper for tacos. If you love this kind of simple, classic side dish, make sure to check out my Italian Pasta Salad, mac and cheese, and homestyle potato salad recipes too!

This is one of those recipes that gets even better as it chills, so it’s ideal for meal prep or making ahead for a potluck. Just toss it together in under 10 minutes and let it hang out in the fridge while you handle the rest of dinner (or sneak a spoonful—no judgment).

What You Will Love About This Recipe

Spot-on flavor: It tastes just like the one from KFC—sweet, creamy, tangy, and totally addicting.

Super quick prep: All you do is mix and chill. That’s it.

No chopping required: Using a bag of coleslaw mix saves time and mess.

Perfect for any occasion: BBQs, weeknight dinners, or holiday gatherings—this side dish fits right in.

Budget-friendly: Simple pantry ingredients, big flavor.

How to make KFC Coleslaw Recipe

In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, milk, buttermilk, sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, onion powder, & pepper. Mix thoroughly.

Place coleslaw mix into the bowl and mix well, completely coating the cabbage mixture.

Place in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes or longer before serving.

Tips & Tricks

Let it chill: For best flavor, make this at least 30 minutes ahead. Overnight is even better.
Customize the sweetness: Some like it sweeter, some like it tangier. Start with 1/3 cup of sugar and adjust to your taste.
Use full-fat dairy: Whole milk and real buttermilk give you the creamiest texture. Don’t skip the buttermilk—it’s key to that KFC flavor!
Want it extra fine? Run your coleslaw mix through a food processor for a texture closer to the KFC original.
Meal prep friendly: Make a double batch and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

FAQs

Absolutely! It actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge. Just stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

You can sub half the mayo with Greek yogurt if you want to lighten it up, but keep in mind the flavor will change slightly.

No problem. Just add 1 teaspoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to ¼ cup of milk, let it sit for 5–10 minutes, and boom—DIY buttermilk.

Totally! Most bagged coleslaw mixes already have a little carrot, but feel free to add more color and crunch if you like.

Try these other delicious recipes!

KFC Coleslaw Recipe

This copycat KFC Coleslaw recipe whips together in just a few minutes and tastes just like the original. It is creamy, tangy, and packed full of flavor that no one can resist.

Ingredients

1 (16-ounce) bag of coleslaw mix
½ Cup Mayonnaise
¼ Cup Whole Milk
¼ Buttermilk
1/3 Cup Sugar, you can adjust to your taste preference
2 TBSP White Vinegar
2 ½ TBSP Lemon Juice
1/2 TSP Onion Powder
Pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, milk, buttermilk, sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, onion powder, & pepper. Mix thoroughly.
Place coleslaw mix into the bowl and mix well. Make sure all of the cabbage mixture is coated.
Place in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes or longer before serving.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 210Total Fat: 16gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 11mgSodium: 182mgCarbohydrates: 15gFiber: 1gSugar: 14gProtein: 1g

Melissa

I’m Melissa, the imaginative force behind Sparkles to Sprinkles, where creativity comes to life, and sprinkles of joy are scattered generously. Melissa is a proud Jersey girl who found love with a New York boy. As a mom to four wonderful boys and a few fur babies, her journey into the world of blogging began after making the life-changing decision to stay home and raise her children. Previously a dedicated workaholic, Melissa’s blog became her creative outlet and passion project. Inspired by her mother-in-law, a masterful cook renowned for her delicious home-cooked meals and legendary holiday feasts (think mouthwatering sausage stuffing), Melissa honed her culinary skills through a combination of family recipes and countless cooking classes. She often attended these classes with her son Michael, who shared her enthusiasm for cooking from a young age. Melissa’s love for learning extends beyond familiar cuisines, as she enjoys exploring international recipes in hands-on cooking classes. Her blog features a diverse array of recipes, showcasing her expertise with various kitchen appliances such as the Instant Pot, air fryer, Slow Cooker, Ninja Foodi, Instant Vortex Plus, and more. Join Melissa on her culinary adventures as she shares tried-and-true family favorites alongside exciting new discoveries!

Copycat KFC Coleslaw (Tastes Just Like the Real Thing!)