KFC-Style Coleslaw — Creamy, Tangy, and Just Like the Original (Only Better!)

This KFC-Style Coleslaw is the ultimate classic side dish. The secret to that familiar flavor isn’t just the sugar—it’s the combination of buttermilk and lemon juice. Together, they create a layered tang that plain vinegar alone can’t deliver. Letting the slaw chill gives the dressing time to draw out just enough moisture from the cabbage, creating that signature creamy “soup” at the bottom of the bowl that fans love.

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🥬 Copycat KFC-Style Coleslaw

📝 Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Coleslaw mix (or shredded green/red cabbage)	8 cups
Shredded carrots	1 cup
Yellow or white onion, finely minced	¼ cup
Mayonnaise (full-fat preferred)	1½ cups
Buttermilk	⅓ cup
Milk (whole or 2%)	2 tbsp
Granulated sugar	¼ cup
Fresh lemon juice	2 tbsp
White vinegar	1 tbsp
Salt	½ tsp
Black pepper	¼ tsp

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🥄 How to Make Copycat KFC-Style Coleslaw

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
If not using a packaged mix, shred the cabbage very finely. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, shredded carrots, and minced onion.

Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, milk, sugar, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy, making sure the sugar is fully dissolved.

Step 3: Combine and Chill
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and gently fold until everything is evenly coated. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours—overnight is best for optimal flavor and texture.

Step 4: Stir and Serve
Before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir to redistribute the creamy dressing that settles at the bottom. Serve well chilled.