KFC Bowl Recipe: Easy Copycat Comfort Food in 20 Min!

Craving the hearty, comforting layers of a KFC Famous Bowl but don’t feel like ordering takeout? You’re not alone. There’s something irresistibly satisfying about that perfect mix of creamy mashed potatoes, crispy chicken, sweet corn, melted cheese, and rich gravy—all in one bowl.

The good news? You can recreate this fast-food favorite at home—in just 20 minutes—with simple ingredients and no fuss. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner, a nostalgic comfort meal, or a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love, this copycat KFC Bowl recipe delivers.

Better yet, you control the quality of ingredients, adjust flavors to your liking, and skip the drive-thru line. Let’s make a bowl that’s even better than the original. Ready to dig in?

Why You’ll Love This KFC Bowl Recipe

This homemade version beats takeout every time. Here’s why:

• Faster than delivery – Ready in 20 minutes flat
• Budget-friendly – Costs less than fast food
• Customizable – Swap ingredients to your taste
• No mystery ingredients – You control what goes in
• Kid-approved – A guaranteed family favorite

No soggy fries, no cold chicken—just pure comfort food perfection, exactly how you like it.

Ingredients for the Perfect KFC Bowl

Gather these simple ingredients to recreate that iconic KFC flavor at home. Most are pantry staples or easy to find at any grocery store.

Base Components:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (instant or homemade)
• 1 cup cooked corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Crispy Chicken:

• 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless thighs
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp each paprika, garlic powder, salt & pepper
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)
• 2 tbsp oil (for frying)

For the Signature Gravy:

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• Salt & pepper to taste

Pro Tip: For a shortcut, use store-bought rotisserie chicken or frozen breaded chicken tenders to save time!

Step-by-Step KFC Bowl Recipe

Let’s break down how to make this crave-worthy bowl in just 20 minutes. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time.

1. Prep Your Potatoes (5 minutes)

• If using instant mashed potatoes: Prepare according to package instructions
• For homemade: Boil 2 medium russet potatoes until tender, then mash with butter and milk
• Pro tip: Add a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor

2. Cook the Chicken (8 minutes)

1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces
2. Mix flour with spices in one bowl, beat egg in another
3. Dip chicken in egg, then coat with flour mixture
4. Heat oil in skillet over medium-high heat
5. Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy

Alternative: Use an air fryer at 400°F for 10 minutes for a healthier version

3. Make the Gravy (5 minutes)

• Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat
• Whisk in flour until smooth (about 1 minute)
• Gradually add chicken broth, whisking constantly
• Simmer until thickened (2-3 minutes)
• Season with salt and pepper to taste

4. Assemble Your Bowl (2 minutes)

1. Start with a base of mashed potatoes
2. Add a layer of corn
3. Top with crispy chicken pieces
4. Sprinkle with shredded cheese
5. Drizzle generously with gravy

Presentation tip: Serve in wide, shallow bowls to showcase all the delicious layers!

Total Time: 20 minutes active prep/cooking

Nutrition Facts (Homemade vs. Original KFC Bowl)

Wondering how our homemade version compares to the fast-food original? Here’s the breakdown per serving:

• Key Takeaways:
  35% fewer calories than the original
  Higher protein from quality chicken
  Less than half the sodium of KFC’s version
  No preservatives or artificial additives

Note: Nutrition calculated using 2% milk in potatoes, canola oil for frying, and reduced-sodium chicken broth. Values may vary slightly based on specific ingredients used.

Pro Tips for the Ultimate KFC Bowl Experience

Take your homemade bowl from good to “better than takeout” with these chef-approved secrets:

Crispy Chicken Perfection

• Double-dip method: For extra crunch, dip chicken in egg → flour → egg → flour again
• Rest before frying: Let breaded chicken sit 5 minutes for better coating adhesion
• Oil temperature matters: 350°F (175°C) is ideal – use a thermometer or test with a breadcrumb (should sizzle immediately)

Gravy Mastery

• Flavor boost: Add ½ tsp onion powder and a dash of Worcestershire sauce to your gravy
• Lumpy gravy fix: Strain through a fine mesh sieve if needed
• Make-ahead tip: Gravy thickens as it cools – thin with warm broth when reheating

Smart Shortcuts

• Rotisserie chicken hack: Use pre-cooked chicken + 5 minutes in air fryer to crisp up
• Frozen potatoes: Store-bought mashed potato pearls work in a pinch
• Corn alternatives: Try roasted corn kernels or Mexican-style corn for extra flavor

Presentation Points

• Layer strategically: Potatoes → corn → chicken → cheese → gravy (melts cheese perfectly)
• Garnish game: Fresh chopped parsley or chives add color and freshness
• Serving suggestion: Offer hot sauce and extra gravy on the side for customization

Chef’s secret: For authentic KFC flavor, add a pinch of MSG (optional) to your chicken breading!

FAQ – Your KFC Bowl Questions Answered

Chef’s Final Touches

Before you grab your fork, here are my professional insights to elevate your KFC Bowl game:

The Flavor Balance Secret

The magic happens in the layering:

1. Potatoes (smooth base)
2. Corn (sweet contrast)
3. Chicken (savory crunch)
4. Cheese (melty richness)
5. Gravy (umami finish)

Texture Matters

For authentic KFC vibes:

• Keep mashed potatoes slightly lumpy
• Chicken should audibly crunch when bitten
• Gravy should coat the back of a spoon

When to Break the Rules

• Breakfast version: Top with a fried egg
• Loaded style: Add bacon bits and green onions
• Spicy twist: Mix hot sauce into the gravy

“A great comfort bowl isn’t about fancy techniques – it’s about that perfect bite where every element shines.”