If you love the iconic taste of KFC but want to enjoy it in a cozy, layered bowl form at home, you’re in the right place. The Copycat KFC Bowl combines all the best elements of the classic fried chicken meal—crispy chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, savory gravy, corn, and cheese—into one satisfying, easy-to-eat dish. This recipe captures the essence of that fast-food favorite but with the flexibility to customize and make it fresh in your own kitchen.
What Is a KFC Bowl?
The KFC Bowl is a layered dish that KFC introduced in their menus as a convenient way to enjoy their famous chicken and sides all at once. Instead of the traditional plate with separate portions, the bowl stacks crispy fried chicken chunks over creamy mashed potatoes topped with rich gravy, sweet corn, and shredded cheese. The layers meld together for a comforting, hearty meal that’s become a fan favorite for takeout and quick dining.
Why Make a Copycat Version?
Making a Copycat KFC Bowl at home lets you control the ingredients, customize flavors, and avoid preservatives or additives found in fast food. It’s a perfect comfort food for family dinners or casual gatherings, and you can easily adjust it to be healthier or cater to dietary preferences (like baking chicken instead of frying). Plus, it’s budget-friendly and delicious!
Ingredients for Copycat KFC Bowls
For the Chicken:
- Chicken thighs or breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy layering.
- Buttermilk: For marinating, keeps chicken juicy and tender.
- Flour and spices: To create the crispy coating (paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, cayenne).
- Oil: For frying or use an air fryer or oven for a lighter version.
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- Potatoes: Yukon gold or russet, peeled and boiled until tender.
- Butter and cream: For creamy, smooth texture.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
For the Gravy:
- Chicken broth: Base for flavor.
- Butter and flour: For a roux to thicken the gravy.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder or herbs.
Toppings:
- Corn kernels: Fresh, canned, or frozen, lightly cooked.
- Shredded cheese: Typically cheddar for melty richness.
- Optional: chopped green onions or crispy fried onions for garnish.
Step-by-Step Recipe to Make Copycat KFC Bowls
Step 1: Marinate and Cook the Chicken
Start by marinating your chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least an hour. This tenderizes the chicken and adds moisture. Meanwhile, prepare a seasoned flour mix with paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Dredge the marinated chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
Fry the chicken in hot oil until golden brown and crispy, or bake/air-fry for a healthier option. Set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Step 2: Prepare Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Peel and boil the potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and mash with butter, cream, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. For extra fluffy potatoes, use a hand mixer or ricer.
Step 3: Make the Classic Chicken Gravy
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for a minute or two to form a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Simmer until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and any extra herbs you like.
Step 4: Cook the Corn
If using frozen or canned corn, heat it up with a little butter and salt for sweetness and richness.
Step 5: Assemble Your KFC Bowl
In a bowl or deep plate, layer the mashed potatoes at the bottom. Pour a generous ladle of gravy over the potatoes. Add a layer of crispy chicken pieces, then top with corn and a handful of shredded cheddar cheese. You can garnish with chopped green onions or crispy onions for extra texture.
Tips for Perfect Copycat KFC Bowls
- Chicken: For the crispiest texture, double-dip chicken in buttermilk and flour.
- Gravy: Use homemade chicken broth for richer flavor or good quality store-bought broth.
- Mashed Potatoes: Don’t overmix to avoid gluey texture; add butter and cream gradually.
- Customize: Add bacon bits, jalapeños, or different cheeses for variations.
- Make it lighter: Bake or air-fry chicken and use low-fat milk or yogurt in mashed potatoes.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Spicy KFC Bowl: Add hot sauce to the gravy or coat chicken in a spicy batter.
- Loaded Bowl: Add sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or green peas.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute fried chicken with crispy tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives.
- Family Style: Serve in large bowls for sharing or as meal prep for the week.
Why You’ll Love This Copycat KFC Bowl
This dish is the ultimate comfort food that hits every craving—crispy, creamy, cheesy, and savory. It’s perfect for cold days, casual meals, or when you want something indulgent without leaving your kitchen. The homemade copycat recipe brings that fast-food nostalgia with the satisfaction of cooking from scratch.
Whether you’re feeding kids, friends, or treating yourself, these bowls deliver big on flavor and fun. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy KFC’s iconic meal reinvented for your home!