Easy Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls Recipe

If you’ve ever craved the crispy, flavorful delight of KFC but want the comfort of enjoying it right at home, you’re in for a treat with this Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls recipe. This dish combines tender, seasoned fried chicken bites layered over creamy mashed potatoes, corn, and drizzled with rich gravy, giving you that classic KFC experience in a convenient, easy-to-make bowl. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining friends, these Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls promise a satisfying meal that feels just like your favorite fast food, made just the way you like it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: Combines all the beloved KFC flavors in one hearty bowl that warms you from the inside out.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples to create a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss.
• Customizable Layers: Easy to switch up toppings and sides based on what you have or prefer.
• Quick to Prepare: Perfect for a speedy dinner that still feels special and homemade.
• Family Friendly: Picky eaters love it, and it’s great for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the key to achieving that authentic KFC taste in your Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls. Each component adds its own magic—from the crispy chicken coating right down to the creamy mashed potatoes and savory gravy, making every bite an explosion of flavor and texture.

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Choose tender cuts, perfect for frying and staying juicy inside.
• Buttermilk: Adds moisture and tang while helping the coating stick perfectly.
• Flour and seasoning mix: The secret blend of herbs and spices that delivers the classic KFC crispy crust.
• Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting, smooth base layer.
• Butter and milk: Essential for buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes with a rich finish.
• Frozen or fresh corn: Adds sweetness and a fresh pop of color to balance the savory flavors.
• Chicken gravy: The luscious, savory topping that ties all the elements together.
• Oil for frying: Use vegetable or canola oil to achieve the perfect crispy coating.

Variations for Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls

Feel free to make this recipe your own! It’s incredibly easy to adapt the Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls to suit your dietary needs, ingredient availability, or flavor cravings. Let your creativity run wild with these tasty variations.

• Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the flour mix for a spicy twist on the classic.
• Gluten-free option: Swap regular flour for almond or rice flour and use gluten-free gravy.
• Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with crispy fried tofu or cauliflower bites.
• Extra veggies: Incorporate peas, carrots, or green beans alongside the corn for added color and nutrition.
• Cheesy goodness: Sprinkle shredded cheddar on the mashed potatoes before layering the chicken and gravy.

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How to Make Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by marinating the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes; this tenderizes the meat and gives it a subtle tang. Meanwhile, mix your flour with a blend of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of dried herbs to replicate the signature KFC flavor.

Step 2: Coat and Fry the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade and dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure a thick crust. Heat your oil to about 350°F and fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is frying, peel and boil your potatoes until tender. Drain and mash them with butter and warm milk until creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Corn

Heat the corn either by steaming or microwaving, seasoning lightly with butter and salt for a sweet and buttery flavor addition.

Step 5: Prepare the Gravy

Use a simple homemade or store-bought chicken gravy, warming it gently on the stovetop until it reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.

Step 6: Assemble Your Bowls

Layer the mashed potatoes at the base of each bowl, followed by a generous helping of corn, then place the crispy fried chicken pieces on top. Drizzle with warm gravy, and your Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls are ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls

• Use fresh oil: Fresh oil ensures your chicken fries crispier and tastes cleaner without leftover flavors.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry chicken pieces in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady and achieve even cooking.
• Keep chicken warm: Place fried pieces on a wire rack over a baking sheet in a warm oven to retain crispiness before assembling.
• Mash potatoes extra creamy: Warm your milk before mixing it into the potatoes to keep the texture ultra-smooth.
• Season layers: Lightly salt each layer so every bite is flavorful from top to bottom.

How to Serve Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls

Garnishes

Top your bowl with freshly chopped parsley or green onions to add a fresh, vibrant note that complements the hearty flavors. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce can also enhance the experience for those who love a little extra zing.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside coleslaw or a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast. Biscuit wedges or warm cornbread are fantastic indulgent sides that keep the Southern comfort theme alive.

Creative Ways to Present

Use clear glass bowls or mason jars to show off the beautiful layers of mashed potatoes, corn, chicken, and gravy. For parties, consider individual portions in small ramekins, making it easy for guests to grab and enjoy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken, mashed potatoes, corn, and gravy separately in airtight containers, preferably in the refrigerator, to maintain freshness and texture for up to 3 days.

Freezing

If you want to save leftovers long-term, freeze the mashed potatoes and gravy in freezer-safe containers, but it’s best to freeze the chicken separately to prevent sogginess. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer to restore its crispiness. Warm the mashed potatoes and gravy gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally for even heat.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat, but keep in mind they can dry out more easily, so marinate well and avoid overcooking.

How do I make the gravy from scratch?

Use drippings from frying chicken or sauté some flour and butter to create a roux, then whisk in chicken broth slowly until thick and smooth, seasoning to taste.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The layers keep well separately, making it easy to assemble fresh bowls during the week.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

You can bake for a lighter option, but results won’t be as crispy unless you use a high-temperature bake and a breading designed for oven crispiness.

What side dishes pair best with Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls?

Classic options like coleslaw, biscuits, macaroni and cheese, or green beans complement the bowls perfectly, balancing richness with freshness.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls are pure comfort in a bowl, blending crispy chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, buttery corn, and rich gravy into one irresistibly tasty meal. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe will become a go-to favorite that’s easy to personalize and share with loved ones. Dive in and enjoy the deliciousness made entirely from your kitchen—because good food made with love tastes best!

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