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Copycat KFC Bowls At Home

Highlighted under Category: Hearty Italian Second Courses

Layered with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy popcorn chicken, golden corn, savory brown gravy, and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, these homemade bowls deliver crowd-pleasing flavors in minutes. This simple dish offers a comforting blend of textures and rich taste, ideal for busy nights or when a fast, satisfying meal is needed. Assembly is effortless: just stack the prepared ingredients in a bowl and enjoy that cozy, well-loved takeout flavor right in your own kitchen. Feel free to customize by swapping in mac and cheese or trying different gravies for your personal touch.

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Brought to You By Valeria Rossi
Last modified on Tue, 20 May 2025 16:38:45 GMT
Copycat KFC Bowls Save
Copycat KFC Bowls | recipesvaleria.com

If you crave the comfort of takeout but want to create that cozy, satisfying bite at home, these KFC Bowls have you covered. They come together quickly with just five ingredients and always leave everyone scraping their bowls clean. It makes for the ultimate weeknight dinner when you need something fast but filling.

I first made these for my family years ago after a long afternoon at the park and everyone was thrilled It has now become our go to Friday night meal because it is so simple and everyone is happy at the table

Ingredients

  • Mashed potatoes: Essential creamy base for the bowl Choose your favorite brand of instant or whip up homemade for even more flavor
  • Popcorn chicken: Crispy bite sized chicken pieces provide crunch Look for a brand with minimal fillers and real chicken breast If you prefer you can bread and bake your own
  • Corn: Sweet and juicy yellow kernels add color and a burst of sweetness Fresh frozen or canned all work fine Just drain well to avoid sogginess
  • Beef gravy: Savory and rich brings everything together Opt for low sodium if you want to control salt and make sure to heat until steaming for the best texture
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the top for gooey comfort Pick up block cheese and shred it yourself for the best melt and flavor or use a favorite pre shredded brand in a pinch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Potatoes:
Prepare six servings of mashed potatoes using a packet or your favorite homemade recipe Keep them warm so they stay creamy
Bake the Chicken:
Follow package directions for your popcorn chicken Make sure the pieces are crisp and heated through
Warm the Corn:
Drain the canned corn thoroughly then heat it in the microwave or on the stovetop Stir occasionally so it warms evenly
Make the Gravy:
Mix up the brown gravy with water and bring to a simmer on the stove Stir until thickened and glossy
Assemble the Bowls:
Spoon a generous layer of mashed potatoes into each bowl Top with corn then pile on popcorn chicken Drizzle with hot brown gravy and scatter shredded cheddar cheese on top Let the heat melt the cheese before serving
Copycat KFC Bowls Save
Copycat KFC Bowls | recipesvaleria.com

You Must Know

  • This recipe is great for meal prepping since all elements can be stored separately in the fridge
  • Homemade mashed potatoes or gravy will make the dish even more special
  • My favorite part is the layer of gooey cheddar cheese on top It reminds me of my childhood when we would blast through a bucket of cheesy bowls as a Friday treat Now my kids associate these bowls with fun movie nights

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in separate airtight containers for up to three days The potatoes and chicken reheat best in the microwave but for an extra crispy chicken texture I like to use a toaster oven Reassemble the bowls right before serving for the best taste

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer chicken strips just cut them into bite sized pieces for equally tasty results For a lighter option use roasted cauliflower or rotisserie chicken Mac and cheese can replace the mashed potatoes if you want the KFC Mac bowl flavor Just skip the corn and gravy

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bowls as a standalone meal or add a side salad for some greens A drizzle of hot sauce or a lemony ranch dip jazzes up the classic flavors For a party scoop into mini cups so folks can make their own

Cultural Context

Bowls like this are inspired by American comfort food classics that bring together the best of Sunday dinner favorites in one handy dish They are all about layering textures and flavors so every bite is a little different and wildly satisfying

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ What kind of mashed potatoes work best?

Instant or homemade mashed potatoes are both great choices. Choose your favorite for a creamy base.

→ Can I use chicken strips instead of popcorn chicken?

Yes, simply chop up cooked chicken strips for a similar texture as the popcorn chicken.

→ Is there a substitute for beef gravy?

Absolutely! Try brown gravy, chicken gravy, or any variety you enjoy best over potatoes and chicken.

→ What are some customization ideas?

Swap corn for mixed veggies, use mac and cheese instead of potatoes, or try a spicy cheese for extra kick.

→ Can these bowls be prepared ahead?

Yes, assemble ingredients separately and combine just before serving for best texture and flavor.

Copycat KFC Bowls

Enjoy quick KFC-inspired chicken mashed potato bowls with corn, gravy, and cheese for a satisfying meal.

Preparation Time
10 minutes
Cooking Duration
10 minutes
Overall Time Required
20 minutes
Brought to You By: Valeria Rossi

Recipe Group: Main Courses

Skill Requirement: Perfect for Beginners

Cuisine Type: American

Recipe Output: 6 Number of Servings (6 individual bowls)

Diet Preferences: ~

Required Ingredients

→ Main Components

01 900 g prepared mashed potatoes
02 680 g cooked popcorn chicken
03 425 g canned corn, drained and heated
04 1 packet (approximately 45 g) beef gravy, prepared
05 200 g shredded cheddar cheese

How to Make It

Step 01

Prepare 900 g of mashed potatoes according to package instructions or using homemade methods.

Step 02

Cook popcorn chicken as directed on the packaging until fully heated and crispy.

Step 03

Heat the drained corn kernels in a microwave-safe dish or on the stovetop until steaming.

Step 04

Make beef gravy according to packet directions, heating until smooth and piping hot.

Step 05

Layer portions of mashed potatoes in serving bowls. Top each with heated corn, popcorn chicken, a generous ladle of hot gravy, and finish with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.

Additional Information

  1. For variation, substitute Mac and cheese for the mashed potatoes, omitting corn and gravy to replicate a different bowl style.
  2. Chicken strips cut into bite-sized pieces may be used in place of popcorn chicken if preferred.
  3. Gravy varieties can be adjusted to taste; beef, chicken, or vegetarian options are all suitable.

Essential Tools

  • Microwave or stovetop
  • Mixing bowls
  • Serving bowls
  • Saucepan

Allergy Notes

Double-check every ingredient for potential allergenic risks. Reach out to your doctor with any concerns.
  • Contains milk and dairy products
  • Contains wheat and gluten
  • Contains soy
  • May contain egg, depending on the chicken and gravy used

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These nutritional details are intended for informational purposes and aren't a substitute for professional guidance.
  • Total Calories: 592
  • Fat Content: 13 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 49 grams
  • Protein Amount: 14 grams