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copycat KFC coleslaw recipe featured
Avatar photoJohnson Maya

Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe (Easy!)

Craving that iconic KFC creamy coleslaw? This copycat KFC coleslaw recipe delivers the perfect crunchy cabbage, sweet carrots, and tangy dressing in minutes. A must-make side for fried chicken or BBQs that's fresher and cheaper than takeout.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 140
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 cups finely shredded green cabbage
  • ¼ cup shredded carrots
  • ¼ cup finely diced sweet onion
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup buttermilk
  • 1½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon celery seed (optional)

Equipment

  • Food processor or mandoline
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Salad spinner

Method
 

  1. copycat KFC coleslaw recipe recipeCard1
  2. Step 1: Finely shred the cabbage using a food processor or mandoline to 1/8-inch thickness, grate carrots finely, and dice onion small. Toss in a large bowl and spin dry if moist, ensuring even pieces for uniform crunch that absorbs dressing perfectly without sogginess.
  3. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk mayonnaise, buttermilk, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and celery seed until smooth and sugar dissolves completely—about 2 minutes. Taste and tweak for balance; chill briefly for better pour.
  4. Step 3: Pour dressing over veggies and toss gently until coated lightly. Cover and refrigerate 2-24 hours for flavors to meld and cabbage to soften just right. Stir before serving cold.

Nutrition

Calories: 140 | Carbohydrates: 10 | Protein: 1 | Fat: 11 | Fiber: 1 | Sugar: 7

Notes

STORAGE: Airtight in fridge up to 5 days; best within 3 for crunch. No freezing.
MAKE AHEAD: Prepare fully and chill up to 24 hours.
SUBSTITUTIONS: Vegan mayo + plant milk; sugar to honey. Use coleslaw mix if rushed.
PRO TIPS: Fine shreds are key—coarse ruins texture. Chill 4+ hours minimum. Dry veggies well post-shred.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS: Pile beside fried chicken, in sandwiches, or tacos. Garnish with paprika; serve chilled.
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