Famous KFC Coleslaw Classic 😋
Creamy, Sweet, Tangy, and Just Like the Original
This Famous KFC Coleslaw is one of the most iconic fast-food side dishes of all time—and now you can make it right at home. Creamy, slightly sweet, tangy, and ultra-refreshing, this classic coleslaw pairs perfectly with fried chicken, BBQ, burgers, sandwiches, or summer cookouts.
What makes this recipe so special is the signature dressing. It’s smooth, balanced, and lightly tangy, coating the finely chopped cabbage and carrots just like the real thing. After a short chill in the fridge, the flavors meld together beautifully, giving you that unmistakable KFC-style taste everyone knows and loves.
Why This Coleslaw Is So Popular
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Creamy but not heavy
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Sweet with just the right tang
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Ultra-fine texture, just like KFC
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Perfect make-ahead side dish
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Loved by kids and adults alike
It’s the kind of recipe that disappears fast at potlucks and backyard gatherings—and people always ask for the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
🥣 Dressing
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120 ml mayonnaise
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65 g granulated sugar
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60 ml whole milk
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60 ml buttermilk
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38 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
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22 ml distilled white vinegar
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3 g fine sea salt
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0.5 g ground black pepper
🥬 Coleslaw Base (Classic)
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8 cups finely chopped green cabbage
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¼ cup finely grated carrot
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1–2 tablespoons finely minced onion (optional but traditional)
(The key is chopping everything very fine for that authentic texture.)
How to Make Famous KFC Coleslaw
Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, milk, buttermilk, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until completely smooth and creamy, making sure the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
Finely chop the cabbage into very small pieces. Grate the carrot finely and mince the onion if using. The finer the vegetables, the closer you’ll get to the classic KFC texture.
Step 3: Combine
Add the cabbage, carrot, and onion to a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This resting time allows the cabbage to soften and absorb all that creamy, tangy flavor.
Step 5: Stir and Serve
Give the coleslaw a good stir before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Tips for Authentic KFC-Style Flavor
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Use very finely chopped cabbage (a food processor works great)
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Don’t skip the chilling time—this is crucial
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Whole milk + buttermilk gives the perfect balance
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Letting it sit overnight makes it taste even better
Variations & Customizations
Extra Creamy
Add 1–2 tablespoons more mayonnaise.
Less Sweet
Reduce sugar slightly to taste.
Southern Twist
Add a pinch of celery seed for extra flavor.
No Buttermilk?
Use regular milk with 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar added.