Irresistible Copycat KFC Bowls You Can Make at Home
The Secret to Perfect Copycat KFC Bowls That Will Wow Your Family
If you love the comforting flavors of takeout but prefer to whip it up in your own kitchen, then these Copycat KFC Bowls are a must-try! Imagine creamy mashed potatoes piled high with crispy popcorn chicken, sweet corn, savory gravy, and a generous sprinkle of melted cheddar cheese. This dish brings all the nostalgia of KFC’s famous bowl right to your dining table, and the best part? You can enjoy it without stepping foot outside.
Why You’ll Love This Copycat KFC Bowls
– Quick and easy to prepare with only 5 ingredients.
– Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
– A delicious combination of textures: creamy, crunchy, and cheesy.
– Budget-friendly meal that pleases the whole family.
– Customizable with your favorite toppings or sides.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
To make this dish smoothly, gather these essential tools:
– Large pot: For boiling and mashing your potatoes.
– Frying pan: To cook the popcorn chicken until golden and crispy.
– Mixing bowl: For combining the ingredients before layering them in bowls.
– Microwave-safe container: To heat up the corn quickly and efficiently.
– Gravy pot or saucepan: For warming up the gravy to perfection.
Preparation Tips
For the best results with your Copycat KFC Bowls, consider making your own mashed potatoes for extra creaminess and flavor. Ensure that your popcorn chicken is cooked until crispy for that perfect crunch in every bite. Don’t skimp on the cheese; it adds a delightful gooeyness that ties all the elements together beautifully.
Ingredients for this Copycat KFC Bowls
For the Bowl
– 6 servings mashed potatoes
– 1 24 oz package popcorn chicken (cooked)
– 1 15 oz can corn (drained and heated)
For Topping
– 1 pkg beef gravy (cooked)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Copycat KFC Bowls
If you love takeout but would rather make it at home, then you need to whip up these Copycat KFC Bowls. With only five ingredients and just minutes to make, it’s a quick and easy dinner recipe that the whole family will enjoy. Imagine digging into a comforting bowl of creamy mashed potatoes topped with crispy popcorn chicken, sweet corn, savory gravy, and melty cheddar cheese. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Start by preparing six servings of mashed potatoes. You can choose instant mashed potatoes for convenience or whip up your own homemade version for that extra touch. If you opt for homemade, remember to use fluffy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for the best texture. Once they’re creamy and smooth, set them aside while you prepare the other components.
Step 2: Cook the Popcorn Chicken
Next, it’s time to cook your popcorn chicken according to the package instructions. This usually involves baking or frying until golden brown and crispy. The crunchiness of the chicken adds a delightful contrast to the creamy mashed potatoes. Once cooked, keep them warm while you get everything else ready.
Step 3: Heat Up the Corn
While your chicken is cooking, go ahead and heat up your canned corn. You can do this either in the microwave or on the stovetop—whichever you prefer! Just drain it first to avoid excess moisture. A quick heat will bring out its sweetness and ensure it’s nice and warm when layered into your bowls.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
For this recipe, you’ll want to prepare your beef gravy using a pre-packaged mix. Follow the instructions on the packet for easy preparation; it usually just involves mixing with water over heat until thickened. This savory sauce is what ties all of your ingredients together beautifully.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
Now comes the fun part—assembling your Copycat KFC Bowls! Start with a generous layer of mashed potatoes at the bottom of each bowl. Next, add a layer of sweet corn followed by the crispy popcorn chicken. Drizzle on that rich gravy, and finish off with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top. The warmth from everything will melt that cheese perfectly!
Notes
These Copycat KFC Bowls are incredibly versatile! Feel free to customize them based on what you have on hand or what you’re craving. You could swap out the popcorn chicken for grilled chicken or even roasted veggies for a lighter option. Want to elevate the flavor? Consider adding sautéed onions or garlic, or even some spicy jalapeños if you’re looking for a kick!
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking
– Using cold ingredients can lead to uneven heating.
– Overcooking the popcorn chicken may result in dryness.
– Not draining canned corn properly can make your dish watery.
– Forgetting to season each layer can lead to blandness.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because they’re so delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, try using an oven or toaster oven instead of a microwave for better texture retention—just cover with foil to prevent drying out. You can also freeze individual portions; just be sure to wrap them tightly before storing.
Estimated Nutrition
– Calories: 592 kcal
– Protein: 14 g
– Fat: 13 g
– Carbs: 49 g
– Fiber: 4 g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned corn?
Absolutely! Fresh corn, peas, or even steamed broccoli would be delightful additions to your bowls.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by replacing popcorn chicken with veggie nuggets and using vegetable broth for your gravy.
What sides pair well with KFC Bowls?
These bowls are hearty enough on their own but if you’re looking for sides, consider serving a light salad or some garlic bread to balance things out.
Conclusion
I hope you’re as excited about making these Copycat KFC Bowls as I am! They’re not only simple but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try and let me know how yours turns out! Happy cooking!
Copycat KFC Bowls
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare six servings of mashed potatoes, using instant or homemade.
- Cook the popcorn chicken according to package instructions until golden brown and crispy.
- Heat up the canned corn in the microwave or stovetop after draining.
- Prepare the beef gravy according to package instructions.
- Assemble the bowls starting with mashed potatoes, followed by corn, popcorn chicken, gravy, and cheese.
