kfc famous bowl recipe
The Best kfc famous bowl recipe
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can make it for a busy weeknight dinner when you’re short on time, or serve it at a casual gathering with friends. The layers of mashed potatoes, crispy chicken, corn, gravy, and cheese create this perfect mix of textures and flavors that just works. Plus, you can control the quality of the ingredients—using lean chicken, low-fat cheese, and homemade gravy instead of the store-bought stuff makes a big difference. It’s comfort food without the heavy, greasy aftermath, and that’s a win in my book. My kids don’t even realize they’re eating something that’s not straight out of a drive-thru bag, and honestly, neither do I half the time.
KFC Famous Bowl Copycat Recipe
A homemade version of KFC’s beloved Famous Bowl, featuring crispy popcorn chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, and rich gravy, all topped with shredded cheddar cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup milk (or more as needed)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 (15 oz) can sweet corn, drained (or 1.5 cups frozen corn, thawed)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces, buttermilk, and hot sauce (if using). Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for extra tenderness). -
2
Cook the potatoes: Place cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot. -
3
Make the mashed potatoes: Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the cooked potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Cover and keep warm. -
4
Prepare the chicken coating: In a large bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). -
5
Coat the chicken: Remove chicken from the buttermilk (let excess drip off) and dredge in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Shake off excess. -
6
Fry the chicken: Heat 1-2 inches of oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F. Fry chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. -
7
Heat the corn: In a small saucepan, warm the corn over medium heat for 3-4 minutes. Set aside. -
8
Make the gravy: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. -
9
Assemble the bowls: Divide mashed potatoes evenly among 4 serving bowls. Top each with corn, popcorn chicken, and gravy. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. -
10
Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!
🔧Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Slotted spoon
- Potato masher or ricer
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Baking sheet (for draining fried chicken)
- Serving bowls
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How KFC Famous Bowl Copycat Recipe Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About KFC Famous Bowl Copycat
1. What ingredients are needed to make the KFC Famous Bowl at home?
The KFC Famous Bowl typically includes the following ingredients:
– Mashed potatoes (instant or homemade)
– Popcorn chicken (KFC-style or homemade crispy chicken bites)
– Corn (canned or frozen, heated)
– Gravy (KFC-style brown gravy or homemade chicken gravy)
– Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
– Optional: A sprinkle of black pepper or green onions for garnish
2. Can I make the KFC Famous Bowl healthier?
Yes! Here are some ways to make a lighter version:
– Use baked or air-fried chicken instead of fried popcorn chicken.
– Substitute mashed cauliflower for regular mashed potatoes to reduce carbs.
– Opt for low-sodium gravy or make your own with less salt.
– Use reduced-fat cheese or a smaller portion.
– Add steamed veggies (like broccoli or peas) for extra nutrients.
3. How do I make KFC-style gravy for the Famous Bowl?
To make a simple KFC-style gravy:
1. Heat 2 cups of chicken broth in a saucepan.
2. Whisk in ¼ cup of flour and 2 tbsp of butter until smooth.
3. Add 1 tsp of chicken bouillon powder, ½ tsp of black pepper, and ½ tsp of garlic powder.
4. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Can I prepare the KFC Famous Bowl ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best to assemble just before serving to keep the textures crispy and fresh. Here’s how:
– Prep components separately: Cook mashed potatoes, popcorn chicken, and gravy ahead of time. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
– Reheat carefully: Warm the potatoes and gravy in the microwave, then crisp the chicken in an air fryer or oven.
– Assemble last: Layer the ingredients and top with cheese right before serving to prevent sogginess.
5. What sides pair well with the KFC Famous Bowl?
Popular sides to serve alongside include:
– Biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
– Coleslaw (for a crunchy contrast)
– Mac and cheese (for extra comfort)
– Green beans or roasted veggies (for a lighter option)
– Pickles or hot sauce (for added tang/spice)
