KFC Coleslaw is a five minute side dish you’ll enjoy all summer long with your favorite chicken and more! Tastes exactly like the original!
KFC Coleslaw is one of my most personal childhood food memories. As a young kid I would walk from my elementary school with my great aunt and we would stop at KFC (then Kentucky Fried Chicken) to get a chicken plate to share and a pudding cup to share. I just remember the most happy memories of our time together there, we would sit and talk and laugh.
To this day anytime I eat or make this KFC Coleslaw I think of her. I’m sure many of us have memories like this, which is why copycat recipes are also so personal. You want to recreate those memories or those long lost flavors (Like Pioneer Take-Out Fried Chicken) and anytime you succeed there is joy.
Speaking of KFC, you can also enjoy this coleslaw with KFC Original Fried Chicken and make your own chicken plate for a lot less money!
This KFC Coleslaw is probably one of the easiest copycats I have worked on in a long time. The ingredients were readily available online from so many sources it is hard to tell where the original came from. The version I found was from Food.com.
Looking for more recipes to serve with this easy coleslaw?
- The Obvious: KFC Original Recipe Chicken (Copycat) and Pioneer Take-Out Fried Chicken
- Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
- Super Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
- Loaded Baked Potato Salad
- Easy Mashed Potatoes + 10 Add-In Ideas!
Tools used in the making of this KFC Coleslaw:
Food Processor: This is the newer version of the one I have used and loved for ten years. It is a workhorse and the new model has similarly awesome reviews…and it is so affordable!
Buttermilk Powder: I stopped buying buttermilk years ago and keep this on hand for dressings, waffles, homemade ranch seasoning and more. One container has served over 100 recipes to date. You don’t have to throw away 50% full buttermilk containers anymore. I also love their all natural cheddar powder and sour cream powder (I use these to make Cheddar and Sour Cream Roasted Potatoes that taste just like the chips!) and Chicago Mix Cheddar and Caramel Popcorn.
Mayonnaise: I’ve tried a number of different brands, this one is the most spot on flavor.
Ingredients
- 8 cups diced cabbage (I used a food processor shredding disc)
- 1 carrot (also used the food processor)
- 2 tablespoons grated onions
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup buttermilk (I used buttermilk powder to make mine)
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- In a large bowl add the cabbage, carrot, onion.
- In a second bowl whisk the rest of the ingredients together until combined and smooth.
- Toss together thoroughly and put in the refrigerator for 4-8 hours (the longer, the better).
Nutrition
This is so delicious!! I’ve made it with and without buttermilk..not.ucj difference. My people I stay with absolutely love it!
Thank you for sharing this recipe!
Can I use sour cream instead of buttermilk? I don’t have any and just got home from the store, ugh!
Hi Jan, I apologize for the late response. It’s been crazy in the kitchen lately! Sour cream is thicker than buttermilk, so it’s best to thin it with water or milk when making a buttermilk substitute. To replace 1 cup (240 mL) of buttermilk in a recipe, combine 3/4 cup (172 grams) of sour cream with 1/4 cup (60 mL) of water or milk, and whisk the mixture until smooth.
Really, excellent! It taste very much like the KFC in our community. I don’t think it can be improved upon.
This was too sweet for us. Next time I’ll use a lot less.
Can you make this with out buttermilk? And onions?
yes, it just won’t taste like a copycat of KFC Coleslaw.
Oh My Land!!! Theeee best!!! Thank you!!!
How long will it last
If you keep it in an airtight container in the fridge, it should last for about a week.
Yummy! Turned this into keto friendly by using Swerve confectioners sugar.
Hi, I made this for my family yesterday. We have some people who have serious love for KFC coleslaw and they said this was spot on. Everyone loved it. Thanks for the awesome recipe.
Debbie, I think the goal here is not necessarily using all the same ingredients but achieving the same flavor. This recipe tastes spot on!
Where can you buy buttermilk power
They should call this “Better than KFC Cole Slaw.” I relished the many layers of flavor.
Thank you sooooo, sooooo much!
Absolutely great recipe. Thank you
I’ve made thus KFC Cole slaw for years and my entire family loves it
KFC slaw don’t make milk, onions, lemon juice, white pepper, white vinegar or butter milk in it. It has apple cider vinegar, oil, sugar and mayonnaise. I use to work there and that is all we put in it.
How much of the ingredients do you use on the apple cider, oil,sugar, and mayonnaise. Thankyou
Debbie, I think the goal here is not necessarily using all the same ingredients but achieving the same flavor. This recipe tastes spot on!
Since we are diabetic & high cholesterol I substituted the sugar & buttermilk for low fat milk & sugar substitute, they both worked out great & we can have coleslaw that is good for us too.
I do the same thing! Both hubby and I are type 2 and my coleslaw is hubby’s favorite! He compares all restaurant coleslaw to mine and he always likes mine better! I always used chopped cabbage and carrots..etc..my favorite texture!
Just like I remember from KFC. Really good when hubby says he liked it too!
Just what I wanted.
The cole slaw recipe is good but if you want it GREAT use terragon vinegar. Many years ago and elder in the family gave me the KFC’s recipe and that is what it calls for. It’s GREAT. It’s available everywhere.
Yes this is the ONE! Coleslaw is the BOMB good !
What brand of buttermilk powder do you use? The link takes me just to Amazon but not the product.
Thank you
I’ve used a few different kinds, most recently Hoosier Hill Farms.
I use Saco brand, which can be found near the powdered skim milk or canned evaporated milk in most grocery stores. One tablespoon powder to 1/4 cup of water is the ratio. Kroger’s carries refrigerated low fat buttermilk in their dairy case. Splenda sweetener works great.
So you don’t use the milk and Lemmon juice if you have buttermilk? I’m so confused now.
You use all three. Milk, Lemon juice AND buttermilk.
Do you mix the buttermilk as directed on package or just add dried powder to other ingredients?
Hi, you can just mix all the ingredients together and whisk the rest the together until combined and smooth.
Sorry, that was a stupid question. Please don’t post it.
Hi. If you use 1/4 cup buttermilk, is it also 1/4 cup in powder form??? Thanks in advance!
Hi! Sorry for the confusion, it would be in liquid form!
Do you add the powdered buttermilk as powder or dilute it 1st as per directions on container? I have seen some recipes just use it dry.
Hi! You would dilute it to make it Buttermilk
My all time favorite Cole slaw! Thank you for sharing the recipe!! So many times i personally tried to duplicate it, and so many times it came out tasting wrong! This time, it was COPY CAT Delicious!! Funny you call it that cuz I too am an artist but not with foods I draw/sketch portraits of people! I am called copy-cat artistry for my exact likeness of images! Dogs are a real bread winner here in Henderson, NV so I’ve mastered that as well! People much rather see their fur babies in art form vs their personal faces of themselves or loved ones. So today is my first time stumbling oooo
Are the onions dried or fresh? Thank you
Freshly grated. 🙂
This is the only coleslaw I ever make. I buy the bagged coleslaw and add everything else as is in the recipe.
The kfc original is: miracle whip,sugar tarragon vinegar saltpepper,cabbage,carrots onion. No milk the sugar and vinegar whisked in mayo, mix with veggies. Gets milky on it’s own. I made it for them as a kid.
I have heard that it’s a different vinegar and what you’re saying I think that’s correct but do you have the recipe.
How much on each ingredient
Love this!!! I’m getting ready to make it, but I do not have whole milk. Will 2% work?
Yes 🙂
This was so good! It reminds of the coleslaw we used to get at Rudolph’s BBQ Restaurant in Mpls. Thanks so much for the recipe!
You Forgot The Celery Seeds !!!
I just made this for the first time today. I forgot to ask my husband if he even liked KFC’s version (it’s my favorite). He said, “I love KFC’s!”. I asked him to try it and see what he thought. After one bite he said, “That is gold.” Thank you for a great recipe!
I’m confused…don’t want to ruin the first try….Do I use milk and buttermilk along with more vinegar and lemon juice??? Or do I substitute if I don’t have buttermilk??
You’ll use all the ingredients in the recipe card. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own using milk and lemon juice. Hope this clears things up. Enjoy!
When I use the powdered buttermilk, it doesn’t get thick. What am I doing wrong?
Are you making buttermilk using the powdered buttermilk?
I am so curious on where to buy the buttermilk powder? I’m like you I hated to buy it cuz I threw half of it away I would always make it with vinegar instead but the powder sounds like it would be much more original taste maybe but where do you buy these powders are you actually in the United States or is this something that from another country
I bought it from Amazon. In the recipe card, if you click on the word ‘buttermilk’ (in green) it’ll take you to the link to purchase it.
I buy mine from amazon. I live in Canada and I could not find it ANYWHERE! Amazon came through for me though.
I made this recipe for dinner tonight and it is spot on. Thank you for the recipe.
You’re welcome, Daisy.
I see what Jeannie is saying, do you add the buttermilk powder to milk or water to make buttermilk or do you just add the powder to the mayo mixture?
You’ll add the powder to water to make buttermilk to add to the recipe.
Do you just add the buttermilk powder to the mayo mixture or do you make follow the directions on the powder container and with water then add to mayo mixture?
You need to use the buttermilk powder to make 1/4 cup of buttermilk and then add that into the bowl with the other ingredients. Hope this clears up any confusion. Enjoy!
Hello,
How much buttermilk powder to use?
Vivi
I usually just make the 8 ounces by mixing 3 tablespoons of the powder with 7.5 ounces of water and then using 1/4 cup for this recipe and using the other part for something else that I need later. Good luck!
I make this once a week for my family and my elderly friend. I found The buttermilk powder at our local Amish market and that is definitely the key. This is the best slaw I’ve ever had!
Do u use red onions
I didn’t but you could if you wanted to change up the flavor a bit.
I think KFC adds mustard powder to flavour their coleslaw… I make mine just like yours but use sour cream and mayo instead of milk and buttermilk and I add spring onions instead of diced onions. With the mustard powder element, it gives the ultimate taste of KFC coleslaw.
Sorry buddy but this is not your recipe page! We are talking about her recipe…NOT YOURS. That is just so rude of you. If people wanted your recipe….they would ask you wouldn’t they? I hate it when people do this. PLEASE respect other peoples site!!!
I tried it using a bag of store bought coleslaw mix. I didn’t think there was enough juice to it and it didn’t have much flavor. My husband loved it though.
I worked at KFC years ago late 70 early 80s cole slaw was made with Miracles Whip, sugar and Teragon Vinegar and carrot. Heads of cabbage including dark green outer leaves were put in one end of a big grinder and it moved and came out the other end perfect . There was no green peppers or onion In it or dairy back then. I Don’t have measurement but I mix Miracle Whip and sugar together and add enough Teragon Vinegar to taste. Makes a great sauce for your slaw.
My son loves Cole slaw, I do not. Together we found this recipe and made it. He loves it and, surprisingly, so do I. I have made many times and there is always someone who tells me they do not like Cole slaw but they love this recipe. It’s a keeper for sure!
I’m so glad you decided to give it a try! Thanks for the 5 star rating.
The recipe is mayo, sugar, vegetable oil and apple cider vinegar and no onions. I use to work there years ago and this is how we made it
I definitely taste onion in the coleslaw, possibly green onion. It might be grated in with the prepackaged cabbage. Not very much or it will overpower the taste.
Didn´t use buttermilk because I didn´t have but still delicious!
Milk and vinegar or milk and lemon juice works……google it. Much cheaper than buying a whole container of buttermilk that you won’t use in time ;P
Made this and the family loved it. Was told to add to the favorite list.
Yay!!
Do you have to use mayonnaise I don’t like mayonnaise I use miracle whip do you think that will be OK
It’ll adjust the flavor but yes, you can use it. Enjoy!
I also find it has a more bitter taste. My mom swore by Miracle whip. I use half fat Hellman’s and if the recipe calls for Miracle whip…I add a squirt of vinegar….tastes like Miracle whip. I have been cooking for 42 plus yrs. Maybe cut back on the vinegar a bit and it should work!
Since Miracle Whip is much sweeter than mayo you might want to use less sugar than recipe calls for.
Delicious!! I tried today and I love it. Thank you
You’re welcome, Anita.
I know the recipe states it serves 10. Could you tell me what’s considered a serving size for this recipe? Perhaps it’s listed and I overlooked it.
1/2 cup 🙂 Enjoy!
Perfect! I used a hand dicer to dice it all up like you get it at KFC. And much thanks for the powdered buttermilk idea! It will be a staple in my kitchen
Yay!!
Are you sure that the carbohydrate amount is 113gm/serving?
The calculations are automatically done for me. If it’s of concern, you can always use an online calculator to figure out the numbers.
It states 113 under calories, 8 grams for carbs. I used 1/3 cup Splenda instead of the sugar . . . . very, VERY good. And cuts the carbs to nearly nothing.
Hi Sabrina, Thank you for this recipe. Can you help me break this down to 4 servings? It’s probably simple math but this old brain is stuck… pure and simple. Thank you!
Haha, I know what you mean!! You can use the slider tool on all of the recipe cards to adjust the serving size. Just hover over the servings and slide it down to 4 servings and all the measurements will adjust for you. Enjoy!
I do not see the slide tool how do I adjust the serving size thanks
If you go to the recipe card at the bottom and hover over the serving size (in green), it’ll automatically pop up for you. Hope this helps!
This recipe is perfect. Favorite coleslaw ever. Thanks for the great recipe.
Thanks, Alyssa.
Hi there , I will try the recipe today. How long can we store the coleslaw? Can freeze it?
This will last about 3-5 days in the fridge. Unfortunately it can’t be frozen due to the mayonnaise in it. It tends to separate after being frozen.
If I don’t have buttermilk can I skip it? Do I have to add more milk if I don’t use buttermilk?
You can make your own using milk and lemon juice or vinegar.
I have used this recipe for years. I lowered the sugar to about 1 teaspoon. I always serve it at family gatherings and everyone loves it.
So glad you love it so much, Bill.
This is always my go to when the family wants coleslaw. No leftovers gives me the information I need on how good it is. Thank you for doing all the hard work and giving us this recipe.
Yep, I’d call that a winner too.
Absolutely delicious!! We served it with hot dogs & potato chips for a spring picnic. So good!!
Thanks for the 5 star rating, Amanda.
Greetings!
Thank you for your slaw recipe!
I just want to ask if you mixed the buttermilk powder with water or used plain dry 1/4 cup buttermilk powder?
If diluted, may i, please, ask the ratio?
Thank you! Can’t wait to make it!
I usually just make the 8 ounces by mixing 3 tablespoons of the powder with 7.5 ounces of water and then using 1/4 cup for this recipe and using the other part for something else that I need later. Good luck!
I am sure your recipe is delightful.
40 years ago , one of the kitchen workers at our local KFC – divulged to my mother – they used Marzettis slaw dressing and added a touch of small chopped onions.
I have been making it the same way since I moved out on my own.
Oh my goodness!!!! THE BEST cole slaw recipe!!! My mom in law is Vietnamese and a VERY PICKY eate but she loves the slaw!!! God bless you for the great recipes!!!
You just made my day, Brian. Thank you for coming back to let me know.
I will say close, but I worked at kfc 50 years ago when we made in store and you are still off the receipe. Nice try however.
Amazing!! I made it exactly as written. I used 2 cups red cabbage and the rest green.
KFC coleslaw DOES NOT have any milk products.
Hey Cee Cee. So I wish I had access to KFC’s actual recipes, I don’t. What I do is buy large sides and taste test against my versions until I get close enough people who I give blind taste tests to can’t taste the difference. I very well could be off on the ingredients, but I can assure you the flavors are spot on. Give it a shot, tell me what you think.
This is my go-to coleslaw recipe. I scale it down for 2 people and sometimes I just use all regular milk and omit the buttermilk. Depends on what’s in the fridge. It is delicious. With summer coming, I will be making this a lot as a side for burgers on the grill.
So glad you love it so much, Val. Thanks for the 5 stars.
If you love KFC coleslaw, LOOK NO FURTHER! Ever since I made the recipe for myself (about 5 years ago) I have never looked back!!!!! The only tip I would offer is to go light on the onions….loI Only made that mistake once?
Thanks for the rave review, Phyllis.
Phyllis so glad you mentioned the onions. I was going to use more because I love onions, But I wouldn’t want to mess up the KFC flavor ever. I would eat the family size container if my family would let me and didn’t love the slaw as much as I do. lol
This is a great mock recipe! Tastes exactly like the coleslaw you get at KFC! lol imagine that? 😀 Anyway, we love the coleslaw there, but not too keen on the chicken so we don’t go very often. Now we don’t have to; when we crave the slaw, all we have to do is make it. That simple 🙂
I am also a trained chef. I used both your chicken and slaw recipes and they are spot on and especially to the old school KFC. Just blown away and now I will be looking thru all your recipes. I work at a country club and my members think it is better then KFC but I use plumper chicken. For my own family it is awesome because KFC isn’t cheap anymore. Thanks so much for this.
You’re welcome!
You Don’t Have Any Celery Seed Or Celery Salt Nor Any Green Bell Peppers In This !!! I Also Use Miracle Whip , Makes For All The Better Flavors !!!
Eugene…this is a COPYCAT recipe from KFC, not an original recipe.
The one ingredient thats missing is 1 tablespoon of horseradish sauce
If you use all that it’s not KFC coleslaw anymore lady.
This recipe is absolutely perfect. I think it tastes even better than KFCs version. Thanks!
Sorry, I would never recommend Miracle Whip…..just no. KFC does not have bell pepper in it, so anyone looking to make KFC style do not use these modifications please. It is perfect as written.
Miracle whip in my opinion, is horrible.
Hi, I have buttermilk powder as well. Can you share with me the general proportions , please!
Best New Year wishes!!!!!
Cecile
I usually just make 8 ounces of buttermilk at a time to use for the week and take my 1/4 cup from that. Mix 3 tablespoons of buttermilk powder with 7.5 ounces of water. Hope this helps!
I live in Panamá. So many of the recepies I find use ingrédients not available even in the large supermarkets. For instance buttermilk powder. I can’t find buttermilk either. What if anything can you sugest in place of the buttermilk. Thanks David in Panamá.
You can make your own buttermilk by simply mixing in 1/4 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with 1/4 cup of milk. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes. Hope this helps!
there is no measurement for 1/4 of a tablespoon. 1/3 tbsp. is close.
I am not a chemist or a chef, but just curious, why do you use buttermilk if milk + vinegar = buttermilk and there is milk + vinegar in the recipe? Thanks.
This is a copycat recipe and that’s what is used.
Thank you Sabrina for the tip on using powder. I always end up throwing away my unused fresh buttermilk too.
YES, that trick has saved me from many half used containers of buttermilk! Glad you liked it!
Does the coleslaw taste the same as KFC’s original?
Yes, if you tried it in a blind taste test you wouldn’t be able to tell the difference. 🙂
Greetings and question…
The 1/4 cup buttermilk…
Is this the actual amount of powder one uses or is there a conversion?
Such as 1/4 cup buttermilk equals 1 tbsp. powder and 1/4 cup of water.
Thanks!
Mo
It’s the conversion to get 1/4 cup buttermilk. So the total is 1/4 cup of liquid. Hope this helps! Let me know how you like it.
OH MY GOODNESS THIS IS FREAKING AWESOME!! I used Tri-color coleslaw bags from Walmart. Way easy!!
Yay!! Thanks for coming back to let me know, Gail.
This sounds soooo good does it taste the same as the original?
Cheers sabrina
Mike
NZ
Pinky swear. Yes, the same 🙂
I Love KFC Coleslaw. More than the chicken.
When i made this recipe Wow. Just like KFC !!!!
I also used buttermilk powder.
I make this once a month.
Sounds awesome Mike
Mike
NZ
My hubby manager a KFC while we were in college, its tarragon vinegar not white. He makes for us for our cookouts.
That’s a great insider tip – thank you!
Thank you for the clarification on the vinegar. Now i have to go back to the store haha. I’m sure it will be well worth the trip.
Apple cider vinegar ?
Never heard of tarragon vinegar….can I add an amount of tarragon to white vinegar?
looks good, but doesnt resemble kfc
Looks rally good. I love a great cole slaw recipe. Thank you!
This is “THE” recipe to have for coleslaw!
I make it EXACTLY as the recipe shows, except, I use Half ‘n Half vice whole milk.
The other thing I do, which isn’t a real departure from the recipe, is to mince the coleslaw mixture before adding the dressing.
We like coleslaw finely minced rather than shreds or bite size pieces.
MY STANDARD COLESLAW RECIPE.
Yay!! Thanks for coming back to let me know.
How big of a serving size is this?
1/2 cup
The best!! I’ve been making this for years. I’m required to bring it to many gatherings.
I make my own buttermilk: for 1/4 cup it’s a 1/4 cup of milk and 3/4 teaspoon of either lemon juice OR vinegar.
I make it 24 hours before time though it’s not necessary.
Miracle whip or regular mayo?
Mayo 🙂
Do you use 1/4cup buttermilk and the measurement of lemon juice..white vinegar?? Or one or the other??
You’ll be using all of the ingredients listed in the recipe card. I hope you enjoy it!
I use real Mao.
I worked at KFC. There’s no onions in the coleslaw, unless maybe they changed the recipe.
Do they cook their chicken in a deep fryer or a pressure cooker?
It Is Cooked In A Broaster = Deep Fryer/Pressure Cookers !!!
does this recipe taste anything like kfcs
Not to jump in but I promise you it does, lol. Look at the other reviews. This is definitely the same flavors.
I use this recipe, too, and it tastes exactly like KFC.
Yes there is onions.?
Hi Sabrina —–
Are there onions or not?????
How many tablespoons of buttermilk powder for 1/4 cup?
What kind of grater for onions??? The link doesn’t work anymore.
Can I use blender that has shredding disc to dice the cabbage, carrots?
Can you just put tarragon in white vinegar if tarragon vinegar not available? (Dried tarragon??)
Thanks!
Ok, lots of questions….The onions are listed in the recipe card. If you’re using buttermilk powder, follow the instructions for the brand you’re using. The one linked is 3 tablespoons added to 7.5 ounces of water makes 1 cup. You can cut that by a fourth for this recipe or make a whole cup and use for other dishes. I have a Hamilton Beach food processor (the link seems to still work for me so not sure if there’s a glitch on your end or not).
Jeff… yes it is!!.. I’ve also worked at KFC and made the Coleslaw myself!!
Absolutely the best coleslaw! Food processor the only way to go for tiny minced cabbage just like KFC!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Robin.
Hi Sabrina,
I was so pleasantly surpirsed when I tried your coleslaw recipe and it turned out absolutely top-notch delicious! In my opinion, the best way to eat it is on a beef hot dog with nothing else except a dab of mustard! I just love it, and sincerely thank you for sharing your fine-tuned recipe.
Thank you so much for the recipe, I made the dressing and it tastes spot on, yay! I am making this for a barbecue on Saturday and I know it will be amazing 🙂
My question is about exactly how you process the cabbage and carrots. You mention that you use the shredding attachment of the food processor. This is the cheese grater one, right? I assume the larger side? Do you do anything to the cabbage before/after putting it through the shredder? In the pic, it looks like it is more chopped that shreds (which is exactly like the KFC kind) and I am wondering how you made it like that with the shredder. Maybe you cut into chunks before sticking in the shredder?
Either way I’m positive it will be great just based on the dressing, but any help will be appreciated.
Thanks in advance!
I’m so sorry I didn’t see this earlier. I’m glad this recipe is exactly what you were looking for. I used the shredding disk (shredding side facing up) in the food processor to get this consistency. I did cut it into smaller chunks before shredding though. I hope you enjoyed it!
What kind of onion do I use? & am I really “grating” an onion on a cheese grater?
thanks & I’m excited to try this!
You can use a yellow onion and yes, grate it using a grater. 🙂 It really helps to distribute the flavor more vs having bigger chunks throughout. Enjoy!
This is my favorite Coleslaw recipe. I heap it up on hot dogs,and pulled pork tacos.
So glad you love it, David. Thanks for coming back to let me know.
I heard a story from my cousin yesterday, that the original Cole slaw recipe for “Colonel Sanders Kentucky Fried Chicken” was my Aunt Alberta’s recipe. I have followed almost this exact recipe since I was young. I’m 69 yrs old now.
Not sure how I could prove it because I’ve never seen it written down, not that I recall. Just thought it was interesting and fun to share.
That’s so cool!
Ditch the white wine vinegar for your coleslaw and add great flavor with terigan vinegar. All you should need is about a cap full.
This is the absolute best recipe!Today I subsituted sour cream instead of buttermilk?
Wow! This is just like KFC’s coleslaw. Love it. Thanks for a great recipe.
You’re welcome, Wendy!
The look, flavor, and texture is spot on, even with black pepper!!
So glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the 5 stars.
I can’t wait to try this recipe!
I’ve made this so many times! In one comment someone said that KFC uses Tarragon vinegar. I’ve looked in a few stores and can’t find it so I sprinkle Tarragon in the slaw. I also use the buttermilk powder but I simply mix the powder into the whole milk since I like a thicker dressing. Thanks for sharing this recipe. Whenever we are invited for a cook-out they always ask me to bring this.
Thanks for the suggestions. So glad everyone loves it!
I am so anxious to try these recipes. Thank you for sharing them. I have been an avid fan of KFC ALL my life. Thank you so much.
I hope you love it! This recipe has always been spot on for me!
hi how much buttermilk powder would you use when you mix it with the milk? I also like my coleslaw a bit thicker too.
I am going to make this tomorrow, how much buttermilk powder do you put in your milk?
You’ll want to mix 1 tablespoon of buttermilk powder with 1/4 cup of water to make the buttermilk. Hope this helps!
absolutely delicious.. just like kfc.. i make this often now..
I know it makes 10 servings but how much in a serving is what I’m wondering?
1 cup
That is not kfc coleslaw recipe… i had it before and lost it but that is not it .
Did not have buttermilk used all milk and extra lemon juice used the slaw for Rueben sandwiches very good had left overs next day taste even better!!
Such a great kitchen hack to use! So glad you enjoyed it!
Just tried this recipe and it is SPOT ON EXACTLY the taste that our family is obsessed with!! By that comment, it is needless to say that our family LOVES Kentucky Fried Chicken and the coleslaw has been the scale tipper when we could not decide which take out we wanted on the nights we were too busy to cook at home. We have not cared much for the last 15 years the way KFC changed and can say that it is a far cry in portion and quality since the 1970’s ( a time when it was true quality). I will be making the KFC chicken recipe this week to try and will post the results asap… I have not been this excited about a recipe in years! Thank you Sabrina for posting them up, we are forever grateful 🙂
You’re welcome, Michelle!
Not true I worked there 4 yrs made coleslaw. All it is vinegar. oil .mayo .cabbage ,carrots, onions
Really? I can promise you there is sugar in it.
My parents owned KFC years ago & I my mom made the slaw dressing. I know it had sugar in it. I never had the recipe and mom does not know what she did with it. No longer own KFC.
I made it for New Year’s dinner. Exactly what I was hoping for. It is delicious.
I just made this today for Christmas and I have to say it’s so good. Taste like KFC. Thanks so much for the recipe.
Thanks for dropping by to let me know! I’m so glad you enjoyed it!
Will this be soggy if I make day before?
No, just keep it in an air tight container in the refrigerator.
What are you cooking? The ingredients you whisk together? I read and reread. Not addressed that I could see.
I’m not sure what you’re asking but the recipe card breaks down the ingredients and instructions for this dish.
I think she is referring to this line in the recipe above – it doesn’t seem to belong to this recipe: “Note: click on times in the instructions to start a kitchen timer while cooking.”
1. It gives the impression that we have to “cook” something in the recipe.
2. There are no times in the instructions to click on.
Thank you for clarifying.
I make this Cole slaw recipe all of the time! I love it!!
Easy to make and delicious! I used Kroger’s 16 ounce bagged slaw mix …and added a little less carrots than the recipe calls for .
This is the best Cole slaw! I’ve made it MANY times. I use one bag of Cole slaw mix and chop it up it saves alot of time.
Thanks, Rita!
How much buttermilk powder did you use? Also, which mayo (I prefer Kraft, myself).
I have not tried this recipe yet.
Mix 1 part powder to 4 parts water to make up 1/4 cup buttermilk. As far as the mayo, you can use whatever brand you prefer but I like Best Foods. Enjoy!
Is the buttermilk powder as good as the fresh? I have never tried to cook with it and will be buying it for fresh recipes as this (not just baked where it may not be as noticeable of a difference) thank you for the wonderful recipes!
The buttermilk adds to the flavor profile. You won’t want to use fresh buttermilk in this recipe as it’s a liquid and won’t give us the end result that we want. Hope this makes sense. I’m so glad you’re enjoying the recipes!
Yes that makes perfect sense! I thank you so much for the fast replies!
This is so good and tastes just like KFC. Made it last week and again today 🙂
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for coming back to let me know!
Delicious! I have made this about 5 times in the 2 months since I found the recipe. Everyone loves it. My mom (who lives KFC slaw) said “I’ve never had slaw this this delicious!”
Love it! Thanks for coming back to let me know!
I read somewhere online that a KFC employee suggested that tarragon vinegar is a key ingredient of their coleslaw dressing. I sprinkled just a little tarragon seasoning on Walmart’s deli coleslaw and I was surprised that the flavor was brought into the “ballpark” of KFC’s recipe.
I think I’ll try your recipe with tarragon vinegar in place of white vinegar. Thanks!
Thanks for the suggestion!
This recipe is TOTALLY wrong. I have THE recipe. I used to work at KFC & would make the coleslaw. There are WAY too many ingredients for a very simple recipe. And you are right about the Tarragon vinegar.
So, oil, mayo, black pepper, and tarragon vineger?
Delicious! Made this for a gathering and it is a hit! Didnt have lemon juice so I substituted with lume juice. Also used 2 precut cabbage & carrots. Perfect.
What brand of mayonnaise did you use?
I use Best Foods but you can use whatever brand you prefer. 🙂
Thanks for the recipe and wanted to add that I have never heard of buttermilk powder and thanks to you I have read a lot about it and I will be a convert going forward. I have always hated wasting regular buttermilk as you never use it all. Great tip!
You’re welcome!
Great recipe, make sure you make it in advance to allow the juices to combine. You can substitute Greek yogurt for the butter milk
This is by far my favorite recipe for KFC Coleslaw! Than you for providing such a great recipe! 🙂
You’re welcome Shelly!
came back from vacation in USA and missed this salat soooo much! Now I have America at home! Delicious!
Just made the dressing ahead of time but it seems a bit runny. I tripled the recipe for a 30-40 guests. Wondering if it will thicken a bit. Cant wait to try as KFC coleslaw is my favorite!
This recipe turned out great!
Not even close to the recipe. Enjoy it however . You have way to much going on it is simpler than that.
Can you sub red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar for the vinegar? And sub heavy cream for milk?
No, I’m sorry but all of those substitutions won’t work for this recipe.
Just a comment; the original Kentucky Fried Chicken cole slaw was also served dine-in and came on a real plate with a biscuit and a packet of honey as well as fries and, of course, several pieces of chicken. This would be circa 1960 where I live. Your recipe is almost the same copycat I have used for years and it is GOOD! But if you want to make this coleslaw and don’t have carrot, don’t fret because the original did NOT include carrot! Going to make some tonight!
I’m so excited to make this for my very best friend who totally adores KFC Cole slaw. And, I have to say that though I have not been a Cole slaw fan previously, the KFC version is yummmmmmy! Thank you for this recipe!
How sweet of you to make it for your friend!
as a chef i know how it is to do things right.. get every thing just right and u gotta respect the proper portions and ingredeints to make a true recipe just like the original.. im glad this works but they say that to use mirace whip instead of mayo.. i will see how it works.. gotta love cooking.. its just life and the way u make thngs but do it right and admire but apprevite it.. many plp dont appreitw what it means to give live to the art of cooking..
I have made this about 5 times in the last month. My man loves it. I can’t thank you enough, it is spot on perfect KFC. So simple and I feel better about making it homemade.
Thank you
That’s fantastic! Thank you so much for the 5 stars!
Do you think I could use 1/2 milk instead of any buttermilk?
It won’t have the same flavor. I can’t speak to how it would taste, sorry.
Found it and tried it right away because I Love the KFC coleslaw. I used more milk and the 1,5% one and it looks good and taste already great. I is in the fridge now and I am sute it will taste even better later
Thanks and greetings from Germany
I love that you wasted no time in making this! Enjoy!!
Thanx for the recipe. I made it yesterday and it was a smash hit. Now, a couple of notes for next time. I used a splenda-sugar blend to cut carbs. After sitting in refrigerator overnight, did taste test and it was too sweet for our liking. I added another tablespoon of lemon juice to cut sweetness. It was great. Next time, I will reduce the amount of sugar i put into it.
Fantastic! Thanks for the suggestions!
Did you reconstitute the buttermilk powder+water to make 1/4 cup?
Or did you use 1/4 cup of the buttermilk powder alone, added to the rest of the ingredients?
It doesn’t say buttermilk ‘powder’ in the ingredients, so I’m a little confused.
Thanks in advance!
So sorry for the confusion. I made the 1/4 cup of buttermilk using buttermilk powder plus water. I didn’t want you to think you had to use the buttermilk powder for this recipe though. It’s just a nice thing to have on hand to make the buttermilk vs buying buttermilk and wasting anything not used. I edited the ingredients so hopefully it’s clearer now. Thanks for letting me know.
how much butter milk powder do you use to make a 1/4 cup of buttermilk?
1/4 cup of water and 1 tablespoon of buttermilk powder if you are using the brand I linked to. If you use an alternate brand I would review the label. 🙂
Aaah. Such fond childhood memories of KFC for me, too! Love that you posted this.
Thanks for this awesome recipe! I have fond memories of KFC growing up. Can’t wait to give this recipe a try!
Enjoy!!
Coleslaw is one of my favorite salad! And this dressing sounds perfect! I need to try your recipe! Thanks
Thanks Catalina!
This looks exactly like the KFC coleslaw – you nailed it! Perfect for summertime barbecues.
Thank you so much!
YUM!! This coleslaw looks really, reeeally GOOD!! Can’t wait to give it a try!!
Awesome! You won’t be disappointed!!
That looks perfect, I love coleslaw!
This looks exactly like KFC — can’t wait to try it!