Introduction to Copycat KFC Bowls

As a passionate home cook, I am always on the lookout for recipes that bring comfort and joy to my family. That’s why I’ve fallen head over heels for my version of Copycat KFC Bowls. These tasty bowls are not just a meal; they’re an experience that combines creamy mashed potatoes, tender chicken, savory corn, and rich gravy into a symphony of flavors that warms the heart.

Every time I make these Copycat KFC Bowls, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia. They remind me of cozy family dinners and the joy of sharing a hearty meal. The best part is that I can whip them up in my own kitchen, using quality ingredients that I trust. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress friends and family with a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to prepare.

Imagine the aroma of freshly cooked chicken mingling with the buttery scent of mashed potatoes. It’s enough to make anyone’s mouth water! Not only are these bowls tasty, but they also offer a wonderful canvas for creativity. You can customize your Copycat KFC Bowls with your favorite toppings, making it a versatile dish that caters to everyone’s taste buds.

So, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to enjoy on a lazy Sunday, these Copycat KFC Bowls are the answer. Let’s dive into this recipe and bring a taste of KFC into your home!

Why You’ll Love This Copycat KFC Bowls

As a passionate home cook who has whipped up these Copycat KFC Bowls countless times, I can confidently say that you’ll fall head over heels for this dish. First off, it’s incredibly satisfying to recreate a fast-food favorite right in your own kitchen. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, crispy chicken, sweet corn, and rich gravy is just irresistible. Each bite transports you back to your favorite moments, making it a nostalgic treat.

What I adore about these Copycat KFC Bowls is how easy they are to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a tasty meal in no time. This is excellent for busy weeknights when the last thing you want to do is stress over dinner. Plus, you get to control the quality of the ingredients, ensuring a wholesome meal that your family will love.

The layers of flavors in these bowls create a comforting experience that’s hard to beat. The creamy mashed potatoes provide a buttery base that pairs beautifully with the savory gravy. Add the crunchy chicken on top, and you have a delightful texture contrast that makes every bite exciting. And let’s not forget the sweet corn, which adds a pop of color and a hint of sweetness, rounding out the dish beautifully.

Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, these Copycat KFC Bowls are sure to impress. They’re not just nice to eat; they’re also fun to customize! You can easily add your favorite toppings, like cheese or green onions, to suit your taste. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients for Copycat KFC Bowls

When it comes to creating my beloved Copycat KFC Bowls, the ingredients play a crucial role in capturing that signature flavor. Each component contributes to the delightful medley of tastes and textures that make this dish so comforting and satisfying. Below, I’ve compiled a list of the essential ingredients you’ll need to whip up these bowls at home.

Mashed Potatoes: The creamy base of our Copycat KFC Bowls. I love using buttery mashed potatoes for a rich flavor, but feel free to opt for instant if you’re in a hurry.
Gravy: A savory, thick gravy brings everything together. You can use store-bought or make your own from scratch for an extra touch of homemade goodness.
Fried Chicken: The star of the show! Tender, crispy fried chicken pieces are excellent for this dish. You can use leftover fried chicken, or prepare some fresh using your favorite recipe.
Corn: Sweet, buttery corn adds a burst of color and sweetness. Canned, frozen, or fresh corn works beautifully in these bowls.
Cheddar Cheese: A handful of shredded cheddar on top adds a delightful gooeyness. I like to use sharp cheddar for an extra flavor kick.
Green Onions: Sliced green onions provide a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich ingredients. They also add a pop of color that makes the dish visually appealing.
Optional Ingredients: For those looking to customize their Copycat KFC Bowls, consider adding crispy bacon bits or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Gathering these ingredients is half the fun. Each one serves a purpose, creating a comforting dish that evokes memories of the original. I always recommend using the freshest ingredients you can find, as they truly enhance the overall experience of making your own Copycat KFC Bowls. Once you have everything ready, you’ll be just moments away from enjoying this tasty meal!

How to Make Copycat KFC Bowls

First, let’s prepare the base of our Copycat KFC Bowls. Start by boiling about 4 medium-sized potatoes until they are fork-tender. This usually takes around 15-20 minutes. Once they’re done, drain the water and mash the potatoes in a large bowl. I like to add a pinch of salt and a splash of cream for richness.
Next, it’s time to cook the chicken. For this recipe, you can use 2 cups of cooked chicken-rotisserie chicken works wonderfully. If you prefer, you can fry or bake your chicken strips for a crispy texture. Season the chicken with some paprika, salt, and pepper to mimic that famous KFC flavor.
Now, let’s make the gravy! In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add ¼ cup of all-purpose flour to create a roux, stirring it for about a minute. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth, continuing to stir until the gravy thickens. Don’t forget to season with a touch of salt and pepper for that extra flavor kick.
Once everything is ready, it’s time to assemble your Copycat KFC Bowls. Start with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes at the bottom of your bowl. Then, layer on the chicken, followed by a drizzle of that rich gravy. To finish, add a handful of corn and a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top. This adds the excellent touch of color and flavor!
Finally, pop your assembled bowls into the microwave for about a minute to melt the cheese and warm everything through. Trust me, the aroma will fill your kitchen, and you’ll be ready to dig in!

Tips for Success

Creating tasty Copycat KFC Bowls is both an art and a science. After many attempts in my own kitchen, I’ve compiled some tried-and-true tips to elevate your dish and ensure success every time. Let’s delve into these essential pointers!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients can make a significant difference in flavor. For the best results, choose ripe vegetables and freshly cooked chicken.
Don’t skip the seasoning: Season every layer of your Copycat KFC Bowls. From the mashed potatoes to the chicken, seasoning enhances the overall taste.
Layer wisely: Build your bowls with care. Start with a base of mashed potatoes, layer on the chicken, and finish with corn and gravy. This ensures each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors.
Make homemade gravy: While store-bought gravy is convenient, a homemade version adds richness and depth to your Copycat KFC Bowls. It’s worth the extra effort!
Customize to your taste: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, crispy bacon, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Serve immediately: These Copycat KFC Bowls are best enjoyed fresh. Serve them right after assembly for the ultimate comfort food experience.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll create Copycat KFC Bowls that rival the original. Remember, cooking is all about experimentation, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own!

Equipment Needed

Creating my Copycat KFC Bowls has become a delightful ritual in my kitchen, and having the right equipment makes all the difference. With the right tools at your fingertips, you’ll find the process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need to whip up this comforting dish.

Large pot or Dutch oven: This is excellent for boiling your potatoes, allowing them to cook evenly for that creamy mashed potato base.
Mixing bowl: Use this to combine your ingredients seamlessly, especially when blending the mashed potatoes and any other components.
Skillet or frying pan: Essential for preparing your chicken, whether you’re frying it up crispy or sautéing it for a healthier twist.
Microwave: A quick and effective way to heat up your gravy or cheese, ensuring everything is warm and ready to serve.
Spatula or wooden spoon: These tools help in mixing and serving, ensuring you get every last bit of deliciousness from the pot.
Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key, especially when it comes to seasoning your Copycat KFC Bowls to perfection.
Serving bowls: A must-have for plating your finished masterpiece, making it easy to enjoy this comforting meal with family or friends.

With these essential tools, you’ll be well-equipped to create your own version of the beloved Copycat KFC Bowls. Each piece of equipment plays a role in bringing together the flavors and textures that make this dish so satisfying. Now, let’s get cooking!

Variations

Spicy Copycat KFC Bowls: For those who crave a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce over your finished bowl. This variation adds a delightful kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy mashed potatoes.
Vegetarian Copycat KFC Bowls: If you’re looking to make a meatless version, substitute the chicken with crispy fried mushrooms or tofu. Season them well to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor. This way, you can enjoy the same comforting taste without the meat.
BBQ Copycat KFC Bowls: Elevate your Copycat KFC Bowls by swapping out the gravy for your favorite barbecue sauce. The sweet and tangy notes of the BBQ sauce create an entirely new flavor profile that’s both satisfying and tasty.
Loaded Copycat KFC Bowls: Go all out by adding extra toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and crispy bacon bits. This indulgent variation takes the classic to a whole new level, making it excellent for a hearty dinner or game day feast.
Healthier Copycat KFC Bowls: To make a lighter version, use cauliflower mash instead of traditional mashed potatoes. You can also opt for grilled chicken instead of fried, which reduces calories while still delivering on taste.
Mexican-Inspired Copycat KFC Bowls: Give your bowls a south-of-the-border twist by adding black beans, corn, and salsa. Top it off with a sprinkle of cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a fresh and zesty flavor.

Each of these variations brings a unique twist to the classic Copycat KFC Bowls, allowing you to customize the dish based on your cravings or dietary preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, vegetarian, or loaded with toppings, there’s a version just for you. So, get creative in the kitchen and enjoy these tasty adaptations!

Copycat KFC Bowls: Discover the Secret Recipe Today!

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Savor the delicious flavors of a Copycat KFC Bowl with this easy recipe that combines creamy mashed potatoes, savory chicken, corn, and rich gravy, all topped with shredded cheese.

Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 1x

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups mashed potatoes
1 pound fried chicken tenders, chopped
1 cup corn, drained
1 cup chicken gravy
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the mashed potatoes according to your preferred recipe or package instructions.
Cook the fried chicken tenders in a deep fryer or oven until golden brown and crispy.
Chop the cooked chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces.
In a saucepan, heat the corn over medium heat until warmed through.
In another saucepan, heat the chicken gravy until hot.
Assemble the bowls by layering the mashed potatoes at the bottom, followed by the chopped chicken, corn, and hot gravy.
Top with shredded cheddar cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade KFC Bowl!

Notes

For a healthier option, use baked chicken instead of fried.
You can add additional toppings such as green onions or bacon bits for extra flavor.
Feel free to substitute the corn with mixed vegetables if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 550
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 1200 mg
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 25 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg