The aroma of savory chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and crispy corn smothered in gravy is something that can make anyone’s taste buds dance. Copycat KFC Bowls bring together those comforting flavors into a single bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Imagine sitting down after a long day, diving into this deliciousness, and feeling all your worries melt away.
Growing up, my family had a tradition of making these bowls on movie nights. We’d pile everything high in our bowls, ready to devour them while watching our favorite flicks. Each bite took us back to the golden days—full bellies and laughter echoing through the house. These Copycat KFC Bowls are perfect for cozy evenings or casual gatherings with friends. Trust me, once you dive into this flavor explosion, you’ll find yourself craving them again and again!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy-to-make dish combines familiar comfort food flavors with a personal touch.
- It’s visually appealing with its colorful layers, making it perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
- Plus, you can customize it based on your favorite ingredients!
- The ultimate crowd-pleaser that satisfies both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients for Copycat KFC Bowls
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 3-4 breasts depending on how many mouths you’re feeding; they cook evenly and stay juicy.
Instant Mashed Potatoes: Quick and easy! Choose your favorite brand; just add water, milk, and butter for creaminess.
Corn Kernels: Fresh or frozen works well; they add sweetness and crunch to the mix.
Gravy Mix: Grab your favorite packet or homemade recipe; it’s what ties all these delicious ingredients together.
Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and mozzarella adds 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 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, season the boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in a baking dish lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Bake the Chicken
Bake the chicken for about 25-30 minutes until cooked through and juices run clear. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Make the Mashed Potatoes
While the chicken bakes, prepare the instant mashed potatoes according to package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling water and adding flakes along with butter and milk to achieve creamy perfection.
Step 4: Cook the Corn
In a small saucepan over medium heat, add your corn kernels along with a sprinkle of salt. Cook until heated through—about 5 minutes should do!
Step 5: Prepare the Gravy
Follow the instructions on your gravy mix package. Usually, you’ll mix it with water or broth in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened. Stir occasionally to avoid lumps.
Step 6: Assemble Your Bowls
Start layering! In each bowl, place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes as your base. Next comes the shredded chicken followed by corn and finally a hearty drizzle of gravy topped off with shredded cheese.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Now sit back, relax, and enjoy your Copycat KFC Bowls while reminiscing about simpler times—like when you thought eating from a bowl was adulting at its finest!
You Must Know
- Copycat KFC Bowls bring the iconic flavor of the fast-food favorite right to your kitchen.
- With layers of mashed potatoes, crispy chicken, and savory gravy, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
- It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, ensuring satisfaction in every bite.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the ultimate Copycat KFC Bowls, start by cooking the mashed potatoes first. While they simmer, fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy. Finally, prepare the gravy to drizzle over everything just before serving.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Copycat KFC Bowls! Swap out traditional chicken for grilled or baked alternatives. Add veggies like corn or peas for extra color and nutrition, or try different gravies to switch things up.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Copycat KFC Bowls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use a microwave or oven until heated through, but add a splash of water to keep the potatoes creamy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Copycat KFC Bowls, ensure your mashed potatoes are creamy yet thick enough to hold everything together.
- Avoid overcooking the chicken to maintain its juiciness.
- Lastly, don’t skimp on the gravy; it’s what ties this dish together beautifully.
Sharing my first attempt at making Copycat KFC Bowls was unforgettable when my friends devoured them and begged for seconds. Their laughter and praise made me realize I’d struck culinary gold!
FAQs:
What are Copycat KFC Bowls made of?
Copycat KFC Bowls consist of layers of delicious ingredients that mimic the popular fast-food dish. Typically, these bowls feature creamy mashed potatoes as a base, topped with crispy popcorn chicken or fried chicken pieces. A generous layer of corn and shredded cheese follows, often finished off with a drizzle of rich gravy. You can customize your bowl with additional toppings like green onions or bacon bits for extra flavor.
How do I make the best Copycat KFC Bowls?
To create the best Copycat KFC Bowls, focus on using high-quality ingredients. Start by preparing homemade mashed potatoes for a creamy texture. Use well-seasoned chicken to replicate that signature KFC flavor. Layer the ingredients thoughtfully, ensuring that each bite contains all flavors. Don’t skimp on the gravy; it adds richness and moisture to the dish, making it irresistible.
Can I make Copycat KFC Bowls healthier?
Absolutely! To make healthier Copycat KFC Bowls, consider baking or air-frying the chicken instead of deep-frying it. You can also substitute regular mashed potatoes with cauliflower mash for fewer carbs. Opt for low-sodium gravy and fresh veggies to enhance nutrition without sacrificing taste. These adjustments help maintain flavor while offering a lighter version of this beloved dish.
How can I store leftovers of Copycat KFC Bowls?
To store leftovers from your Copycat KFC Bowls, let them cool completely before transferring them into an airtight container. They can last in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the microwave until heated through. For best results, add a splash of water or extra gravy to keep everything moist during reheating.
Conclusion for Copycat KFC Bowls:
In summary, making Copycat KFC Bowls at home is easy and rewarding. By layering creamy mashed potatoes, crispy chicken, corn, cheese, and flavorful gravy, you can recreate this fast-food favorite in your kitchen. Customize it to suit your tastes and dietary preferences for a satisfying meal. Enjoy this comforting dish any day of the week!
Copycat KFC Bowls
Copycat KFC Bowls are the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of tender, shredded chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, and rich gravy topped with melted cheese. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, evoking nostalgic memories while satisfying your cravings. Enjoy each flavorful bite that brings a taste of home right to your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups instant mashed potatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups prepared gravy
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella blend)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and place in a lined baking dish.
- 2. Bake chicken for 25-30 minutes until cooked through. Let cool slightly then shred into bite-sized pieces.
- 3. Prepare instant mashed potatoes according to package instructions.
- 4. Heat corn in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through (about 5 minutes).
- 5. Prepare gravy according to package instructions.
- 6. Assemble each bowl starting with a layer of mashed potatoes, followed by shredded chicken, corn, gravy, and topped with cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 500g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added flavor, marinate the chicken before baking. Customize by adding vegetables like peas or using grilled chicken for a healthier option.
