Copycat KFC Bowls

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Looking for a hearty comfort meal without the drive-thru? These Copycat KFC Bowls bring together creamy mashed potatoes, crispy chicken, savory gravy, corn, and melty cheese in one deeply satisfying dish. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this bowl has it all—flavor, texture, and that unmistakable fast-food nostalgia.

Homemade means you control the ingredients, and the result is even better than the original. You can use fresh mashed potatoes, add extra cheese, or drizzle on as much gravy as your heart desires. It’s the ultimate comfort bowl with layers that deliver a bite of everything delicious.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For the most authentic flavor, go with crispy popcorn chicken or even chicken nuggets. You can use frozen store-bought, air-fried, or make your own from scratch. Leftover fried chicken works perfectly too—just cut it into bite-sized pieces and crisp it up in the oven.

Ingredients for the Copycat KFC Bowls

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 1/2 cups frozen corn, thawed
• 1 1/2 cups crispy chicken pieces (popcorn chicken or nuggets)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 3/4 cup brown gravy (store-bought or homemade)
• Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

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How To Make the Copycat KFC Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Warm up the mashed potatoes and spoon them evenly into 2-3 serving bowls. This is the base of your bowl, so feel free to add a little butter or cream to make them extra luscious.

Step 2: Add the Corn

Heat the corn in the microwave or stovetop until hot. Sprinkle about 1/2 cup of corn over the mashed potatoes in each bowl.

Step 3: Layer the Chicken

Bake or air fry your popcorn chicken according to package instructions until crispy. Then add a generous handful to each bowl.

Step 4: Drizzle with Gravy

Warm your brown gravy and pour about 1/4 cup over each bowl, letting it soak into the layers.

Step 5: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and let the heat from the gravy and chicken melt it slightly. For extra gooeyness, you can microwave each bowl for 15-20 seconds.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Add a pop of color and freshness with parsley or green onions. Serve hot and enjoy every layered bite!

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How to Serve and Store Copycat KFC Bowls

These bowls are best served immediately while the chicken is crispy and the cheese is melty. If you’re prepping ahead, store each component separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat and assemble the bowls just before eating.

Leftovers? Store assembled bowls in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave until hot, though the chicken might lose some of its crunch. To refresh it, pop it under a broiler or air fryer for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, instant mashed potatoes work great for this recipe, especially when you’re in a time crunch.

What type of gravy should I use?

Brown gravy is the classic choice, but you can use chicken or turkey gravy too. Homemade or packaged both work well.

Is this freezer-friendly?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze the components separately. Avoid freezing fully assembled bowls for best texture.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Use plant-based chicken alternatives and a vegetarian brown gravy.

How do I make it spicier?

Add hot sauce, spicy shredded cheese, or toss your chicken in buffalo sauce before adding to the bowl.

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Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If these Copycat KFC Bowls hit the spot, you’ll definitely love these cozy meals:

• Shipwreck Dinner for a nostalgic, one-pan delight.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts if you’re craving tender chicken in a luscious sauce.
• Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken for set-it-and-forget-it comfort.
• Marry Me Chicken with a rich, sun-dried tomato cream sauce.
• Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta to satisfy any pasta night.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can revisit it anytime.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go heavy on the cheese? Try a homemade gravy twist? I love seeing all the delicious spins you create.

For more delicious ideas, check out my Pinterest page where I share new recipes daily!

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