Craving the comforting layers of creamy mashed potatoes, crispy chicken, rich gravy, and sweet corn you get from KFC? These Copycat KFC Bowls bring the fast-food favorite right into your kitchen with fresher ingredients and just as much flavor. It’s the ultimate one-bowl meal for busy nights, lazy weekends, or when you’re simply in need of some indulgent comfort food.

This homemade version gives you full control over the ingredients—use your favorite mashed potatoes, customize the seasoning on your chicken, or even make it lighter with air-fried or oven-baked nuggets. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just want a fast, satisfying dinner, these bowls deliver in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat KFC Bowls Recipe

These bowls are the perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and savory. They’re incredibly easy to prepare and require only a few pantry staples. Plus, they can be prepped ahead for meal planning or whipped up fresh in under 30 minutes. Kids love them, adults crave them, and they make weeknight dinners feel like a treat.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

You can use frozen popcorn chicken for the most authentic taste and texture, but any crispy chicken nuggets or tenders work well. If you’re looking to keep things homemade, dice and coat chicken breast in seasoned flour, then pan-fry, air-fry, or bake until golden and crisp. The goal is that satisfying crunch that plays beautifully with the creamy mashed potatoes and silky gravy.

Ingredients for the Copycat KFC Bowls

You won’t need much to recreate this classic comfort food.

Mashed Potatoes: The creamy base that holds everything together. Use homemade or store-bought—just make sure they’re buttery and smooth.
Crispy Chicken: The star topping. Choose from frozen popcorn chicken, air-fried nuggets, or freshly breaded pieces.
Brown Gravy: Brings the warmth and moisture. Go for homemade or your favorite packet mix.
Sweet Corn: Adds a pop of sweetness and color. Canned, frozen, or fresh all work.
Shredded Cheese: A melty finish that ties it all together. Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella or a blend works too.

How To Make the Copycat KFC Bowls

Step 1: Prep the Mashed Potatoes

Heat up or prepare your mashed potatoes and spoon them into the bottom of each bowl.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Prepare your crispy chicken according to package instructions or cook your homemade version until golden and crunchy.

Step 3: Warm the Corn and Gravy

In separate pans, heat the corn and prepare the brown gravy. Keep them warm and ready for layering.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Start with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes, layer on the corn, place crispy chicken on top, then ladle warm gravy over it all.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheese over the hot gravy so it melts slightly. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting layers!

Serving and Storing These Bowls of Comfort

This recipe feeds 4 to 6 people generously, making it perfect for family dinners or hearty meal prep. Serve hot in individual bowls or as a self-serve bar so everyone can build their favorite combo.

To store, layer ingredients in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warm. For best texture, re-crisp the chicken separately if possible.

What to Serve With Copycat KFC Bowls?

Garlic Cheese Biscuits

A buttery, fluffy biscuit to soak up the gravy.

Southern Coleslaw

A cool and crunchy contrast to the warm, savory bowl.

Honey Mustard Roasted Carrots

Their sweetness complements the saltiness of the chicken.

Mac and Cheese

Because more comfort food never hurts!

Side Salad

Lightens the meal with greens and vinaigrette.

Fruit Salad

Offers a fresh, sweet finish.

Sweet Tea

The ultimate Southern sip to wash it all down.

Jalapeno Cornbread Muffins

Add a spicy edge to your plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these bowls ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare each layer and store them separately. Assemble just before serving or reheat assembled bowls when ready to eat.

What’s the best cheese for melting on top?
Cheddar melts beautifully and offers sharpness, but feel free to use a blend like Monterey Jack or Colby for extra creaminess.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free chicken nuggets, a certified gluten-free gravy mix, and ensure your mashed potatoes are flour-free.

Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If you love these Copycat KFC Bowls, you’ll probably enjoy these other crave-worthy dinners:

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add bacon bits? Extra cheese? Maybe swap in turkey or plant-based nuggets?
I love seeing your spins on my recipes! Questions welcome too, let’s help each other make dinner better.

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Copycat KFC Bowls

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Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

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Description

Bring the comforting, crave-worthy layers of KFC’s famous bowls right to your table with this easy Copycat KFC Bowls recipe. Creamy mashed potatoes, crispy chicken, rich brown gravy, and sweet corn topped with melty cheese—what’s not to love? This easy dinner idea is perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends, and it comes together fast with simple ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick comfort food fix or something your whole family will devour, this meal delivers big flavor in every bite. Great for meal prepping, fast lunch, or satisfying those takeout cravings—this is a winner in every way!