Imagine a bowl filled to the brim with crispy chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, golden corn, and a drizzle of savory gravy. That’s the magic of Copycat KFC Bowls. Each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by a smooth, warming sensation that’s practically a hug in food form.

Now picture this: you’ve had a long day at work, and all you want is comfort food without having to leave your couch. This dish is your culinary superhero—simple to whip up and bursting with flavor. So grab your apron; it’s time to dive into some deliciousness!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The preparation is so easy that even your least culinary-inclined friend could pull it off.
- The flavor profile is a delightful mix of crispy, creamy, and savory that will make your taste buds dance.
- Visually, the colorful layers create an Instagram-worthy masterpiece that will impress anyone at your table.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings with friends.
Ingredients for Copycat KFC Bowls
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless Chicken Thighs: I recommend using thighs for their juicy texture, but breasts work well too if you prefer them.
Mashed Potatoes: You can use store-bought or homemade; either way, they add that essential creaminess.
Corn: Fresh or canned corn adds sweetness and color; go for whatever’s easiest for you!
Gravy: Homemade or jarred gravy can enhance the flavor; just make sure it’s savory and delicious.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese on top adds a melty goodness that makes everything better.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Copycat KFC Bowls
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the boneless chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Bake the Chicken
Pop those seasoned thighs in the oven and let them bake for about 25-30 minutes until they’re cooked through and golden brown. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 3: Make the Mashed Potatoes
While the chicken bakes, prepare the mashed potatoes. If you’re using instant mash, follow the package instructions. If you’re going homemade, boil peeled potatoes until fork-tender, then mash with butter and cream until creamy.
Step 4: Heat the Corn
If you’re using canned corn, drain it and heat it in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through. If using fresh corn, simply steam it until tender.
Step 5: Prepare the Gravy
In a small saucepan over low heat, warm up your gravy until it’s nice and hot. If you like a bit of spice, consider adding black pepper or garlic powder for an extra kick.
Step 6: Assemble Your Bowls
Grab your favorite bowls and start layering! Begin with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on the bottom, followed by sliced chicken thighs, corn on top of that, shredded cheddar cheese sprinkled generously over everything, and finally drizzle hot gravy over all layers for that ultimate comfort food experience.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Now gather around the table (or couch) as everyone digs into their Copycat KFC Bowls. Enjoy every single bite!
You Must Know
- This copycat KFC bowls recipe brings the comfort of fast food to your kitchen.
- It’s not just delicious; it’s customizable!
- You can easily swap ingredients to suit your taste.
- The vibrant layers of flavors make it a winner for any dinner table.
- Perfect for a cozy night in or feeding a crowd.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the chicken until golden brown and crispy, then prepare the mashed potatoes while that sizzles. Next, whip up the gravy and layer it all together for a mouthwatering bowl that would make Colonel Sanders proud.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Add some steamed broccoli or corn for extra color and nutrients. Play with spices to find your perfect flavor profile!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep things moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy chicken, let it rest after frying to retain moisture.
- If using store-bought gravy, enhance its flavor with herbs or spices.
- Don’t skip seasoning your mashed potatoes; they deserve love too!
I once made these copycat KFC bowls for my family during a movie night, and they devoured them like a pack of hungry wolves! The smiles on their faces made all the effort worthwhile.
FAQs :
What are Copycat KFC Bowls made of?
Copycat KFC Bowls typically consist of layers of mashed potatoes, corn, crispy chicken, and gravy. This dish captures the essence of the original fast-food bowl but can be easily made at home. You can customize it by adding cheese or vegetables based on your preference. The beauty of these bowls lies in their versatility, allowing you to create a filling meal that satisfies cravings.
How do I make the chicken for Copycat KFC Bowls?
To prepare the chicken for Copycat KFC Bowls, start by seasoning boneless chicken pieces with your favorite spices. Then, coat them in flour and fry until golden brown and crispy. For a healthier option, you can bake or air-fry the chicken instead. Once cooked, chop or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces to layer over your mashed potatoes and corn for an authentic taste.
Can I prepare Copycat KFC Bowls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare elements of Copycat KFC Bowls ahead of time. Make your mashed potatoes and gravy in advance and store them in the refrigerator. You can also cook the chicken earlier in the day or even freeze it for later use. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat all components and assemble your bowls for a quick meal that tastes freshly made.
Are Copycat KFC Bowls suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Copycat KFC Bowls are perfect for meal prep due to their easy assembly and reheat options. Prepare individual portions by layering mashed potatoes, corn, chicken, and gravy in meal prep containers. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it convenient for busy days when you want a hearty meal without cooking from scratch.
Conclusion for Copycat KFC Bowls :
In summary, Copycat KFC Bowls offer a delicious way to enjoy a favorite fast-food item at home. With simple ingredients like mashed potatoes, corn, crispy chicken, and gravy, you can create a comforting meal that’s easy to customize. Preparing these bowls ahead of time makes them an excellent choice for busy schedules or quick dinners. By following this recipe, you’ll enjoy all the flavors without leaving home!
Copycat KFC Bowls
Copycat KFC Bowls are the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of crispy chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, and savory gravy, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for cozy nights in or quick dinners after a long day. Easy to prepare and customizable to your taste, these bowls will delight the whole family!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup corn (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup gravy (homemade or jarred)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper and place on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
- Prepare mashed potatoes according to package instructions for instant mash; otherwise, boil peeled potatoes until tender and mash with butter and cream.
- Heat corn in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
- Warm gravy in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Assemble bowls by layering mashed potatoes, sliced chicken, corn, cheddar cheese, and drizzling hot gravy on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 450g)
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Enhance mashed potato flavor with garlic powder or herbs. Substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option. Add steamed vegetables like broccoli for extra nutrition.