Copycat KFC Coleslaw (Gluten Free)

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If you’ve been craving that famous KFC coleslaw, you’re going to love this easy homemade version! This gluten free copycat KFC coleslaw recipe is creamy, tangy, slightly sweet, and tastes remarkably close to the original. Best of all, it comes together in just a few minutes using simple pantry ingredients.

Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled burgers, smoked brisket, fried chicken, pulled pork, or your favorite summer barbecue recipes, this classic side dish is always a crowd favorite. Since KFC coleslaw doesn’t contain wheat ingredients, it’s naturally gluten free when you use certified gluten free ingredients, making it the perfect side dish for anyone following a gluten free lifestyle.

This recipe has become one of our favorite make-ahead side dishes because the flavors only get better as it chills in the refrigerator.

Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Copycat KFC Coleslaw

• Tastes just like the famous KFC version
• Naturally gluten free with simple ingredients
• Ready in about 10 minutes
• Perfect for picnics, cookouts, and potlucks
• Easily made ahead of time
• Creamy, sweet, and tangy with the perfect crunch
• No food processor required if using pre-shredded coleslaw mix

Ingredients

Coleslaw Mix

A 14-ounce bag of coleslaw mix makes this recipe incredibly easy. If you prefer, you can shred about 4 cups of green cabbage and one large carrot yourself for an even fresher flavor.

Mayonnaise

Good quality mayonnaise creates the rich, creamy dressing. I love using Duke’s or Hellmann’s, but any favorite brand will work.

Whole Buttermilk

Whole buttermilk gives this dressing its signature tangy flavor and silky texture. Avoid low-fat versions for the closest copycat taste.

Organic Cane Sugar

The sweetness balances the vinegar and lemon juice just like the original recipe.

White Wine Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar

Either works beautifully. White wine vinegar creates the closest flavor to KFC, while apple cider vinegar adds a slightly fruitier tang.

Creamy Horseradish

This may sound surprising, but it adds just a subtle depth of flavor without making the coleslaw spicy.

Lemon Juice

Fresh lemon juice brightens the dressing and helps balance the sweetness.

Salt & Black Pepper

Simple seasonings that bring everything together.

How to Make Copycat KFC Coleslaw

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, sugar, vinegar, creamy horseradish, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Pour the coleslaw mix into the dressing and stir until every piece of cabbage and carrot is evenly coated.

Step 3: Chill

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours. This step is important because it allows the cabbage to soften slightly while the flavors blend together.

Step 4: Serve

Give the coleslaw one final stir before serving and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Copycat KFC Coleslaw

• Let it chill for at least two hours, but overnight is even better.
• Freshly shredded cabbage provides the best texture if you have a few extra minutes.
• Stir before serving because the dressing settles as it chills.
• Taste before serving and add a splash more lemon juice if you’d like a brighter flavor.
• For the creamiest texture, use full-fat mayonnaise and whole buttermilk.

What to Serve with Gluten Free Coleslaw

This creamy coleslaw pairs perfectly with so many family favorites:

• Gluten free fried chicken
• Pulled pork sandwiches on gluten free buns
• Grilled burgers
• BBQ ribs
• Smoked brisket
• Hot dogs
• Grilled chicken
• Baked beans
• Corn on the cob
• Potato salad
• French fries

It’s also delicious piled onto pulled pork sandwiches or fish tacos for extra crunch.

Storage

Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Because this recipe contains mayonnaise and buttermilk, it should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours.

Freezing is not recommended since the creamy dressing separates after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is KFC coleslaw gluten free?

The ingredients used in traditional KFC coleslaw do not contain wheat, but restaurant preparation practices can change. Making it at home gives you complete control over using certified gluten free ingredients and avoiding cross-contamination.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it’s even better after sitting in the refrigerator overnight.

Can I use bagged coleslaw mix?

Yes! A bag of coleslaw mix is the quickest and easiest option and saves a lot of prep time.

Can I make this lower in sugar?

You can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind that the sweetness is one of the signature flavors that makes this taste like authentic KFC coleslaw.

Recipe Variations

• Add a little celery seed for extra classic deli flavor.
• Use purple cabbage for additional color.
• Mix in chopped green onions for a fresh twist.
• Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra savory flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for the best gluten free copycat KFC coleslaw recipe, this is the one you’ll want to keep on repeat. It’s creamy, crunchy, sweet, and tangy with that nostalgic flavor everyone remembers from family dinners and summer cookouts.

The best part? It only takes a few minutes to prepare, making it one of those effortless recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again.

Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or bringing a side dish to your next barbecue, this homemade coleslaw is guaranteed to disappear quickly.