Can I use homemade mashed potatoes or chicken instead?

Absolutely! Homemade mashed potatoes will add a rich, homemade touch, and if you have leftover fried or baked chicken, just slice it up and layer it in.

What can I do if I don’t have chicken gravy?

You can use turkey or beef gravy in a pinch, or even make a quick version using a gravy mix. The key is that rich, saucy element to tie it all together.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you need this dish to be gluten-free, look for gluten-free chicken strips and gravy, and double-check the mashed potatoes. There are plenty of brands available now to suit dietary needs.

How do I make these bowls ahead for busy nights?

You can fully assemble the layers ahead of time, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, just bake until heated through and the cheese is melted.

Homemade KFC Bowls Recipe

Name: Homemade KFC Bowls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 Tyson crispy chicken strips; 24 oz. tub prepared refrigerated mashed potatoes; 1 cup corn (canned, drained or thawed frozen); 1/2 cup prepared chicken gravy; 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Description

This homemade KFC Bowl recipe delivers the comforting flavors of the original: crispy chicken strips, creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, rich gravy, and gooey cheddar cheese, all baked together for a hearty, family-friendly main course. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s the perfect quick and easy weeknight dinner that packs nostalgia and convenience in every bite.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chicken and Base

8 Tyson crispy chicken strips
24 oz. tub prepared refrigerated mashed potatoes

For the Toppings

1 cup corn (canned, drained or thawed frozen)
1/2 cup prepared chicken gravy
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

Preheat & Bake Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chicken strips on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy.
Layer Mashed Potatoes: Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish well. Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom to form the first layer.
Add Corn: Sprinkle the corn evenly over the layer of mashed potatoes, distributing it so every bite has a bit of corn.
Drizzle Gravy: Pour the prepared chicken gravy over the corn. Try to drizzle it as evenly as possible for consistent flavor throughout.
Add Chicken & Cheese: Place the baked chicken strips evenly over the top of the layered mixture. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken strips so they become gooey and melty while baking.
Bake & Serve: Return the assembled dish to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Use any brand or homemade crispy chicken strips if preferred.
For extra flavor, season the mashed potatoes with garlic powder or black pepper before layering.
Leftovers keep well, covered in the fridge, for up to 3 days.
Make this dish vegetarian by replacing chicken strips and gravy with plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1/4 of recipe)
Calories: 610
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 1360mg
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 68g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 65mg