Indulge in the ultimate comfort meal without leaving home with this Copycat KFC Famous Bowl. This family favorite features layers of velvety mashed potatoes, generously drizzled with rich gravy, and adorned with sweet corn, melted cheese, and irresistible bite-sized popcorn chicken. This homemade KFC Famous Bowl delivers in just 30 minutes, offering you a quick, easy, and tasty solution to your fast-food cravings.
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Ready to make a delicious homemade wonder that’s even better than the original? You can do just that with this Copycat KFC Famous Bowl. Yep, you heard it right, you can now relish every bit of this classic comfort meal right from your own kitchen. I’m talking about those dreamy mashed potatoes that are so creamy they'll make your taste buds dance with joy. And that's just the start, because I've got layers of goodness coming your way.
Think about a river of rich, savory gravy pouring over those mashed potatoes – it's like a warm hug for your appetite. But hold on, there's more. Imagine sweet corn adding a pop of flavor that's like a little surprise in every bite. And let's not forget the cheese – oh, the melted cheese that weaves everything together with its gooey charm. And the star of the show? Crispy popcorn chicken. These tiny bites of heaven bring the perfect crunch and a burst of flavor that's just... mmm!
Guess what? You can whip up this magic in just 30 minutes flat. So, whenever those fast-food cravings hit hard, you've got the ultimate solution that's quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying. Homemade comfort food never tasted this good.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This quick and easy homemade KFC Famous Bowl recipe is sure to become your new go-to when you’re craving fast food. This recipe will be a family favorite, and here are a few reasons why:
Nostalgic Indulgence: Craving that classic KFC taste? This recipe brings back all those cherished memories in a single bowl, recreating the magic right in your kitchen.
Quick Fix: No need to wait in line – this Famous Bowl comes together in just 30 minutes in the comfort of your own home, ensuring you get your comfort food fix without the wait.
Custom Comfort: You can adjust the layers to your liking – extra cheese, more gravy – this bowl of goodness is your canvas to create the ultimate comfort food masterpiece.
Home-cooked Happiness: Savor the satisfaction of crafting a restaurant favorite from scratch. It's not just a meal; it's a cooking adventure that ends with a delicious reward.
Get ready to dig into a bowl of pure joy – a medley of flavors, memories, and homemade happiness that's truly irresistible.
What You’ll Need To Make This Copycat KFC Famous Bowl
Here's the lineup of ingredients for your scrumptious Copycat KFC Famous Bowl, each one playing a crucial role in creating the ultimate comfort experience:
Russet Potatoes: These starchy spuds are the foundation of your bowl, responsible for crafting creamy and velvety mashed potatoes. Their earthy flavor and fluffy texture perfectly complement the other ingredients.
Butter: Butter adds richness and a luscious mouthfeel to your mashed potatoes. Its smoothness enhances the overall flavor while contributing a touch of indulgence. I recommend using unsalted butter and then seasoning the mashed potatoes to taste, but you can also use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand.
Milk: Milk is your secret to achieving that perfect consistency in your mashed potatoes. It adds creaminess and helps bind everything together, resulting in a dreamy texture.
Garlic or Garlic Powder: A dash of garlic, whether minced or in powder form, infuses the mashed potatoes with a subtle, aromatic kick. It elevates the dish with its savory notes and enhances the overall taste.
Frozen Popcorn Chicken: These bite-sized pieces of chicken are the star of the show, adding a satisfying crunch and a burst of protein to every bite. They bring that signature KFC flavor right to your bowl.
Chicken Gravy: The rich, savory gravy blankets your bowl with comforting flavors. It's a nod to the classic KFC recipe, enhancing the overall taste and keeping every layer moist and delicious.
Corn Kernels: Sweet corn kernels provide a burst of sweetness and a delightful pop of texture. They balance out the savory elements and add a touch of freshness to the dish.
Shredded Cheese: Melted cheese ties everything together with its gooey goodness. It provides that familiar cheesy comfort, creating a cohesive blend of flavors throughout the bowl. I recommend using cheddar cheese, but you can swap this out with whatever cheese you prefer.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (205 degrees Celsius) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set it aside for now.
Step 2: On the stovetop over medium-high heat, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Once bubbling, add the peeled and cubed potatoes. Allow them to simmer for approximately 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 3: While the potatoes cook, prepare the frozen popcorn chicken. Spread the popcorn chicken evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Let them bake as per the directions on the package.
Step 4: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain off the excess water, then add the butter, milk, minced garlic or garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or fork and give everything a good mix until it's uniformly combined. If necessary, taste and make any adjustments to the seasoning.
Step 5: Heat up the gravy by pouring it into a microwave-safe bowl. Warm it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, giving it a good stir each time, until it's thoroughly heated. Alternatively, you can opt to heat the gravy by pouring it into a small saucepan on the stovetop over low heat.
Step 6: Drain the canned corn and transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, giving it a gentle stir each time, until it's uniformly warmed through.
Step 7: Next, assemble the bowl. Begin by placing a few scoops of mashed potatoes at the base of your bowl. Next, pour the warm gravy over them then top with a few tablespoons of the heated corn and the crispy popcorn chicken pieces. As a finishing touch, let the shredded cheese work its melty magic.
Tips & Tricks For Making The Best Copycat KFC Famous Bowl
Get ready to indulge in layers of creamy mashed potatoes, savory gravy, crispy popcorn chicken, and more. Here are some tips to make the best ever homemade KFC Famous Bowl:
Choose the Right Potatoes: Opt for russet potatoes, as they're ideal for making creamy mashed potatoes. Their starch content ensures a soft and fluffy texture.
Perfect Potato Boiling: When boiling potatoes, start with cold water to ensure even cooking. Cut them into uniform cubes to promote consistent cooking. Don't overcook; potatoes are ready when a fork easily pierces them.
Customize Cheese Blend: Combine different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack for a more complex and delicious cheese topping.
Enhance Mashed Potatoes: Experiment with additions like roasted garlic, sour cream, or cream cheese for extra flavor and richness in your mashed potatoes.
Garlic Galore: If using fresh garlic, sauté it gently in the butter before adding it to the mashed potatoes for a milder, sweeter flavor.
Layering Balance: Layer your bowl thoughtfully – start with mashed potatoes at the base, followed by gravy to keep the potatoes moist. Distribute the corn, chicken, and cheese evenly for a balanced bite.
Microwave Techniques: To reheat the corn and gravy, use short intervals and stir in between to prevent overheating. This ensures even warmth without compromising taste or texture.
Garnish Grace: Don't shy away from garnishes! Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives to bring a burst of color and freshness to your bowl.
Serve Hot: Enjoy your Copycat KFC Famous Bowl immediately after assembling to relish the contrasting textures and temperatures at their best.
Famous Bowl Variations
Here are some exciting variations that you can try to transform the classic Copycat KFC Famous Bowl into a range of flavorful and unique creations:
BBQ Bliss Bowl: Swap out the traditional gravy for your favorite barbecue sauce. Add a layer of sautéed bell peppers and onions for a tangy twist. Top it off with pulled pork or shredded rotisserie chicken for a smoky and satisfying variation.
Tex-Mex Fiesta Bowl: Transform your Famous Bowl into a Tex-Mex delight by adding a layer of spicy black beans and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Swap the popcorn chicken for seasoned ground beef or grilled chicken strips. Top it with a dollop of guacamole and a sprinkle of shredded Mexican cheese blend.
Veggie Lover's Delight: For a vegetarian twist, replace the chicken with crispy tofu cubes or meatless chicken nuggets. Load up with sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, and caramelized onions for added depth of flavor. A drizzle of mushroom gravy complements the veggie-centric bowl perfectly.
Spicy Buffalo Bowl: Give your bowl a spicy kick by tossing the popcorn chicken in buffalo sauce before layering it over the mashed potatoes. Add a layer of crisp celery and carrot sticks for crunch. Drizzle with blue cheese dressing or ranch for that classic buffalo flavor.
Breakfast Brunch Bowl: Start your day with a breakfast twist by adding a layer of scrambled eggs to your bowl. Top the eggs with crumbled breakfast sausage or crispy bacon. Add a handful of diced bell peppers and onions for a colorful, hearty breakfast-inspired creation.
Sweet and Savory Bowl: Combine sweet and savory elements by including a layer of caramelized onions or maple-glazed bacon. Swap the traditional gravy for a tangy cranberry sauce or a drizzle of honey. The contrast of flavors will tantalize your taste buds.
Experiment with these alternatives and variations to create Copycat KFC Famous Bowls that cater to your cravings and preferences. The possibilities are endless, so have fun crafting your personalized comfort masterpiece!
How To Store Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers from your Copycat KFC Famous Bowl creations, ensure their continued deliciousness with proper storage techniques. Follow these steps to keep your flavors intact:
Separate and Store: Disassemble the layers of your Famous Bowl before storing. Separate the chicken from the mashed potatoes, corn, cheese, and any other components you've used so that it doesn’t get too soggy.
Refrigeration: Place each element in airtight containers. Refrigerate the mashed potatoes, chicken, and corn separately. This prevents cross-flavoring and maintains their individual textures.
Label and Date: Don't forget to label each container with its contents and the date you prepared it. This helps you keep track of freshness and use-by dates.
Use Within: For optimal taste and quality, consume the leftovers within 2-3 days. This ensures that all components retain their desired flavors and textures.
Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them individually. Use the microwave for the mashed potatoes and corn, heating in short intervals and stirring occasionally. For the chicken, consider reheating in the oven to maintain its crispy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are a classic choice due to their starch content and fluffy texture, you can experiment with other potato varieties like Yukon Gold for a slightly buttery taste or red potatoes for a creamier texture.
Definitely. For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with meatless chicken nuggets or crispy tofu cubes. To make it vegan, use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese alternatives. Swap the gravy with a vegan gravy option or a flavorful mushroom sauce.
While it's best to enjoy the Famous Bowl fresh, you can prepare and store the individual components in advance. Keep the mashed potatoes, chicken, corn, and other elements separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the bowls just before serving to ensure the flavors and textures are at their best.
📖 Recipe
Copycat KFC Famous Bowl
Ingredients
Mashed Potatoes
- 5 large Russet potatoes peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter cubed
- ½ cup milk more as needed to reach desired consistency
- 2 cloves garlic finely minced (optional)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- salt and pepper to taste
Chicken Bowl
- 1.5 pound bag frozen popcorn chicken
- 18 ounce jar Heinz chicken gravy
- 15.25 ounce can whole kernel corn drained and warmed
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (205 degrees Celsius) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set it aside for now.
- On the stovetop over medium-high heat, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Once bubbling, add the peeled and cubed potatoes. Allow them to simmer for approximately 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.5 large Russet potatoes
- While the potatoes cook, prepare the frozen popcorn chicken. Spread the popcorn chicken evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Let them bake as per the directions on the package.1.5 pound bag frozen popcorn chicken
- Once the potatoes are cooked, drain off the excess water, then add the butter, milk, minced garlic or garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or fork and give everything a good mix until it's uniformly combined. If necessary, taste and make any adjustments to the seasoning.4 tablespoons unsalted butter, ½ cup milk, 2 cloves garlic, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, salt and pepper
- Heat up the gravy by pouring it into a microwave-safe bowl. Warm it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, giving it a good stir each time, until it's thoroughly heated. Alternatively, you can opt to heat the gravy by pouring it into a small saucepan on the stovetop over low heat.18 ounce jar Heinz chicken gravy
- Drain the canned corn and transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, giving it a gentle stir each time, until it's uniformly warmed through.15.25 ounce can whole kernel corn
- Next, assemble the bowl. Begin by placing a few scoops of mashed potatoes at the base of your bowl. Next, pour the warm gravy over them then top with a few tablespoons of the heated corn and the crispy popcorn chicken pieces. As a finishing touch, let the shredded cheese work its melty magic.1 ½ cups shredded cheese
Nutrition
* Nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered estimates. Actual nutritional content may vary based on brands of ingredients used, measuring methods, portion sizes, and more.
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