Copycat KFC Bowls

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If you’ve ever craved that hearty, comforting bite of KFC’s Famous Bowls but wanted to skip the drive-thru, this Copycat KFC Bowls recipe is your golden ticket. It’s a crave-worthy combination of creamy mashed potatoes, crispy chicken bites, sweet corn, rich brown gravy, and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese—all layered into one indulgent bowl. The textures and flavors work together in the most satisfying way, offering a fast food favorite made fresh in your kitchen.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend indulgence, this dish brings comfort food to the table in just the right way. It’s quick to throw together, incredibly satisfying, and easily customizable. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself, these Copycat KFC Bowls are guaranteed to hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat KFC Bowls Recipe

• It brings your favorite takeout flavor home in a fresher, budget-friendly way.
• Everything is layered in one bowl—hello, fewer dishes!
• Great for using leftover mashed potatoes or frozen popcorn chicken.
• Customizable with your favorite cheese or veggie swaps.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this dish seamlessly, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Large Pot or Saucepan – for boiling and mashing the potatoes.
• Mixing Bowls – to prep and coat the chicken before frying (if making from scratch).
• Frying Pan or Deep Fryer – to cook the crispy chicken pieces.
• Microwave-safe Bowl or Small Saucepan – for warming the corn and gravy.
• Whisk – for achieving lump-free gravy if made from a mix.
• Potato Masher or Hand Mixer – crucial for creamy, lump-free mashed potatoes.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon – helps handle fried chicken easily and safely.
• Serving Bowls – where all the magic comes together in layers.

Each tool plays a role in ensuring texture and temperature harmony—crispy chicken, smooth potatoes, and perfectly warm toppings.

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Preparation Tips

Use frozen popcorn chicken for convenience, or make it from scratch if you have time for an extra crunch. Warm the gravy just before serving so it doesn’t thicken too much as it cools. For creamier mashed potatoes, add a mix of cream and butter while mashing, and season generously. Layering is key: start with the mashed potatoes, then corn, chicken, a drizzle of hot gravy, and finish with shredded cheddar that will slightly melt on contact. This method keeps every bite flavorful and balanced.

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Ingredients for this Copycat KFC Bowls Recipe

• 4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups popcorn chicken (frozen or freshly made)
• 1 cup canned or frozen corn kernels (drained or thawed)
• 1 1/2 cups brown gravy (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar preferred)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for potatoes)
• 1/4 cup milk or cream (optional, for creamier potatoes)
• Oil for frying (if making chicken from scratch)

Optional (for homemade chicken):

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

If you’re using fresh potatoes, peel and boil about 4-5 medium russet potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and mash them with butter, milk or cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. For convenience, you can reheat store-bought or leftover mashed potatoes in a saucepan over low heat.

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Step 2: Cook the Popcorn Chicken

Use frozen popcorn chicken for ease—bake according to package directions or air fry for extra crispiness. If you’re making it from scratch, marinate bite-sized chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. Then dredge in seasoned flour and fry in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

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Step 3: Heat the Corn

Warm canned or frozen corn in the microwave or in a small saucepan with a touch of butter for extra flavor. Season lightly with salt and pepper if needed.

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Step 4: Prepare the Gravy

Heat pre-made brown gravy in a saucepan or the microwave. If you’re making gravy from scratch, whisk together a roux of butter and flour, slowly add beef or chicken stock, and stir until thickened. Season with a touch of pepper and garlic powder for a fast food-style taste.

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Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

In individual serving bowls, layer 1 cup of mashed potatoes at the bottom. Add a scoop of warm corn over the potatoes, followed by a generous helping of crispy chicken. Drizzle hot brown gravy all over the top, making sure it reaches every layer. Finish with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

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Notes

This recipe is extremely forgiving and can be adjusted based on what you have on hand. Use leftover mashed potatoes or a store-bought tub for convenience. You can also use any type of shredded cheese—Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend all melt beautifully. If you’re short on time, a microwaveable brown gravy packet will still yield great results. Make it your own with extras like green onions, bacon bits, or hot sauce.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using cold mashed potatoes: Always warm them before assembling to ensure all the layers blend properly.
• Overcooking the chicken: Whether using frozen or homemade, overcooking leads to dry, chewy bites.
• Skipping the gravy heat: Cold gravy poured on hot food quickly ruins the texture and taste.
• Forgetting to season the layers: Each component—especially the potatoes—needs its own seasoning to avoid blandness.
• Adding cheese too early: Wait until the end to sprinkle cheese so it melts just enough from the heat without becoming greasy.

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Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, store each component separately: mashed potatoes, chicken, corn, gravy, and cheese. Reheat the mashed potatoes and gravy slowly in the microwave or on the stove. Re-crisp the chicken in an air fryer or oven to maintain texture. Avoid freezing the entire bowl once assembled as the texture of the mashed potatoes and gravy may become grainy when thawed.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving, assuming 4 servings total):

• Calories: ~620 kcal
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 1020mg
• Sugar: 4g
• Fiber: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?

Popcorn chicken is traditional, but chicken tenders, nuggets, or chopped fried chicken breasts work great too.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap chicken for crispy tofu or plant-based nuggets, and use vegetarian gravy.

Is it okay to use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes! Instant mashed potatoes work well and save time—just prepare them thick and flavorful.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Of course. While cheddar is classic, mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a cheese blend all melt wonderfully.

What gravy should I use?

Beef gravy is commonly used, but chicken or turkey gravy works too. Choose one that suits your taste.

How do I keep the chicken crispy?

Add it to the bowl right before serving and reheat in an air fryer or oven if needed.

Can I meal prep this?

Yes, prep all the components ahead and assemble just before eating to keep textures fresh.

What sides go well with this dish?

A simple side salad, green beans, or buttery biscuits complement this hearty bowl beautifully.

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Conclusion

These Copycat KFC Bowls are a delicious way to enjoy your fast food favorite in the comfort of home. Packed with flavor and customizable to your liking, they’re ideal for a comforting family dinner or a solo treat. With just a bit of prep, you’ll recreate that craveable layered magic with ease—cheesy, crispy, creamy, and saucy in every bite.

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