These Copycat KFC Bowls capture everything you love from the drive-thru classic—comforting mashed potatoes, crispy chicken, melty cheddar, sweet corn, and rich brown gravy—all layered into the kind of meal that makes you swoon. It’s so easy and quick, you’ll be amazed that you can make this much comfort in just twenty minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Every bite of these Copycat KFC Bowls is warm, hearty, and so satisfying—like a hug in a bowl!
- Quick Weeknight Dinner: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you’re craving something indulgent—but need it fast.
- Customizable Layers: You get to build your bowl exactly the way you want—add more cheese, extra gravy, or swap in your favorite sides.
- Big Family Favorite: These bowls are adored by kids and adults alike, and you can easily scale the recipe up or down!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be thrilled by how this Copycat KFC Bowls recipe comes together using everyday staples—each component brings bold flavor and texture, and it’s the layering of these “simple” ingredients that creates fast food magic at home.
- Mashed potatoes (6 servings): Creamy mashed potatoes are the essential, fluffy base—use instant for speed, or homemade for extra love.
- Popcorn chicken (1 24 oz package, cooked): Crispy and bite-sized, this is the irresistible crunch that makes your bowl pop—store-bought works perfectly for a speedy shortcut.
- Canned corn (1 15 oz can, drained and heated): Sweet golden corn kernels add juicy bites and that classic KFC flavor you expect.
- Beef gravy (1 packet, prepared): Rich, savory, and silky, gravy ties the whole bowl together—packet gravy is totally welcome (no judgment!), or make your favorite homemade version.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): A generous sprinkle of cheddar melts over the hot toppings for pure cheesy bliss with every scoop.
Variations
One of my favorite things about Copycat KFC Bowls? You can riff on them endlessly! Get creative with what’s in your pantry, or swap elements to fit your mood (or your family’s picky eaters)—there’s no wrong way to bowl.
- Mac & Cheese Bowl: Trade the potatoes for creamy macaroni and cheese, skip the gravy and corn, and let that gooey cheese sauce shine!
- Chicken Strip Edition: No popcorn chicken? Use crispy chicken strips cut into chunks for those extra-meaty bites.
- Veggie-Packed: Add sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli between layers for a veggie-forward twist that’s still pure comfort.
- Change the Gravy: While beef gravy is classic, you can swap in chicken or turkey gravy—whatever you have on hand or love most.
- Spicy Kick: Top with jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for bowls with a bold, spicy finish.
How to Make Copycat KFC Bowls
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by making your mashed potatoes. If you’re using instant for speed, just follow the instructions on the package for six servings, fluffing them up with a fork when done. Homemade mashed potatoes are always an option if you want that from-scratch vibe—just don’t forget a splash of butter and a pinch of salt for max flavor!
Step 2: Cook the Popcorn Chicken
Bake (or air fry) your popcorn chicken until it’s golden and crispy—usually about 10–12 minutes in a hot oven if frozen. Want that ultra-fresh crunch? Let the pieces cool for just a minute so they don’t steam in your bowl and lose their bite.
Step 3: Warm the Corn and Make Gravy
Drain your can of corn, then heat it on the stove or zap it in the microwave until piping hot. Prepare your beef gravy packet, whisking well so it’s smooth and steamy—no lumps, please! Homemade gravy is always an option if you prefer.
Step 4: Assemble Those Bowls!
Now the fun (and the magic) happens! Divide hot mashed potatoes between your serving bowls. Top each with a generous scoop of hot corn, then pile on the crispy popcorn chicken. Pour hot gravy over the top—don’t be shy!—and finish each bowl with a big handful of shredded cheddar. Watch it melt into cozy, cheesy goodness.
Pro Tips for Making Copycat KFC Bowls
- Ultra-Crispy Chicken: For best results, cook your popcorn chicken in an air fryer or on a baking sheet (spaced apart) to keep the exterior perfectly crunchy—even after the gravy goes on.
- Layer Hot-to-Cold: Make sure every component is piping hot before layering—this helps the cheese melt perfectly and keeps everything comforting to the very last bite.
- Cheese Power: Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for better melt and richer flavor—it makes a surprising difference!
- Gravy Control: Add gravy just before serving, or let everyone pour their own at the table for bowls tailored to each person’s “perfect amount.”
How to Serve Copycat KFC Bowls
Garnishes
Finish off your bowls with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper, sliced green onions, or even a dash of hot sauce for extra zing. Chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and a bright, herby lift to all those rich layers.
Side Dishes
These bowls are hearty enough on their own, but a crisp green salad or tangy coleslaw is a perfect, refreshing side. If you really want to channel full fast food vibes, serve Copycat KFC Bowls with warm biscuits or even a side of baked beans.
Creative Ways to Present
For family style, serve everything in big bowls and let everyone build their own masterpiece. Or, for parties, spoon layers into clear cups or mini mason jars for fun, portable “bowl bites” that guests can grab and enjoy—no fork required!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Copycat KFC Bowls are one of life’s small joys! Store each component separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days so everything stays as fresh and crisp as possible.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of mashed potatoes, corn, or even the chicken, but try to assemble bowls fresh for best flavor and texture. Thaw in the fridge before reheating, and keep cheese and gravy separate until ready to serve.
Reheating
For best results, reheat each layer in the microwave or on the stovetop until steaming hot, then re-assemble. Keep the popcorn chicken crisp by warming it in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes before serving.
FAQs
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Can I use homemade mashed potatoes instead of instant?
Absolutely! Homemade mashed potatoes will make your Copycat KFC Bowls extra cozy. Just be sure they’re creamy and hot before assembling.
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What are the best substitutes for popcorn chicken?
If you can’t find popcorn chicken, use any breaded chicken tender or strip—just cut them into bite-sized pieces after cooking.
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Can I make Copycat KFC Bowls vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for plant-based nuggets and use vegetarian gravy. You’ll keep all the comfort, minus the meat.
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How can I make these bowls ahead for a party?
Prepare each component in advance and store them separately. Just before serving, heat everything, set up a toppings bar, and let guests build their own Copycat KFC Bowls—super easy, super fun!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for fuss-free comfort in a bowl, these Copycat KFC Bowls are an absolute must-try. Gather your ingredients, layer up the good stuff, and enjoy pure, homemade happiness—right in your own kitchen. Give these a spin and prepare for smiles all around the table!
Print
Copycat KFC Bowls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Layering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious Copycat KFC Bowls at home with this easy recipe. Layers of mashed potatoes, popcorn chicken, corn, savory gravy, and melted cheddar cheese come together for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Mashed Potatoes:
- 6 servings mashed potatoes
Popcorn Chicken:
- 1 24 oz package popcorn chicken, cooked
Corn:
- 1 15 oz can corn, drained and heated
Gravy:
- 1 package beef gravy, cooked
Cheese:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Make Mashed Potatoes: Prepare 6 servings of instant mashed potatoes or homemade.
- Cook Popcorn Chicken: Follow package instructions for cooking.
- Heat Corn: Warm the corn in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Prepare Gravy: Make the beef gravy according to package directions.
- Assemble Bowls: Layer mashed potatoes, corn, popcorn chicken, gravy, and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Notes
- You can use instant or homemade mashed potatoes.
- For a variation, try using Mac and cheese instead of potatoes.
- Chicken strips can be substituted for popcorn chicken.
- Feel free to use your preferred gravy choice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: Approx. 500
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
