Easy Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls Recipe

If you’ve ever craved that irresistible KFC comfort food, but want to enjoy it fresh and homemade, you’re going to love this recipe! These Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls bring together crispy fried chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich savory gravy all in one satisfying bowl. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this dish captures that down-home flavor you know and love, made entirely from scratch in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Comfort Food: Combines classic KFC flavors into a hearty, cozy bowl that feels like a warm hug.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights when you want fast but delicious.
• Customizable Ingredients: Easily swap or add toppings to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Balanced Flavors and Textures: Crispy chicken, creamy potatoes, and smooth gravy make every bite exciting.
• Family-Friendly: Appeals to kids and adults alike, bringing everyone around the table happily.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls recipe keeps your pantry essentials front and center, with ingredients that are straightforward but each plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor, crunch, and creaminess.

• Chicken Breast or Thighs: Use boneless, skinless pieces for tender, juicy chicken that fries up crispy.
• Flour and Spices: A seasoned flour mix with paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper creates that classic KFC flavor.
• Mashed Potatoes: Made creamy with butter and milk for the smooth base layer everyone loves.
• Chicken Broth: The foundation for a savory, homemade gravy that ties everything together.
• Butter and Flour for Gravy: To make a thick, luscious gravy that coats the bowl perfectly.
• Vegetables (Optional): Corn or green beans add color, texture, and a fresh contrast.
• Vegetable Oil: For frying, choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point to get that golden crust.

Variations for Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls

Feel free to make this recipe your own! It’s super adaptable, whether you need a healthier option, prefer different flavors, or want to switch things up based on what’s in your fridge.

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the breading for a zesty twist.
• Oven-Baked Option: Skip frying and bake the chicken for a lighter but still crispy texture.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for crispy fried mushrooms or tofu to keep the flavor with a plant-based touch.
• Cheesy Gravy: Stir in shredded cheese into the gravy for an indulgent, creamy sauce.
• Loaded Bowls: Top with shredded cheddar, green onions, and crispy bacon for extra flavor and crunch.

this …

How to Make Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces. Combine flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a little cayenne if you like heat. Dip chicken pieces in milk or buttermilk, then dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour. Set aside while heating oil in a skillet.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil to around 350°F in a deep pan or skillet. Carefully fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken fries, boil peeled potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper until creamy and smooth. Keep warm until ready to assemble.

Step 4: Prepare the Gravy

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for a minute to form a roux. Slowly add chicken broth while whisking continuously until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Layer mashed potatoes at the bottom of each bowl. Top with crispy fried chicken pieces, then generously spoon over the warm gravy. Add optional steamed veggies for color and crunch, and your Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls are ready to devour!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls

• Use Buttermilk for Breading: It tenderizes the chicken and helps the flour stick better.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep frying oil steady at 350°F to ensure a crispy, golden crust without greasy chicken.
• Add Warm Milk to Potatoes: Helps avoid lumps and creates silkier mashed potatoes.
• Whisk Gravy Constantly: Prevents lumps and makes the gravy perfectly smooth every time.
• Serve Immediately: The dish tastes best fresh to keep the chicken extra crispy.

How to Serve Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls

Garnishes

Fresh green onions, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of black pepper add a pop of color and brightness to your bowl, balancing richness with freshness.

Side Dishes

Pair with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or steamed green beans to round out your meal and add variety in texture and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls in mason jars for grab-and-go style or layered parfait-style to impress guests at casual gatherings or meal prep.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover components in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, preserving the chicken’s crispiness and the gravy’s texture best.

Freezing

While mashed potatoes and gravy freeze well, the crispy chicken may lose texture, so freeze separately if possible and reheat in an oven for better results.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer to regain crispness, warm the mashed potatoes on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk, and gently heat the gravy on the stove while stirring.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and pat dry the chicken to ensure even cooking and crisp coating.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour blends for breading and thicken the gravy with cornstarch instead of flour.

Can I make the gravy without chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth works as a substitute, though the gravy will have a slightly different flavor profile.

How do I make the chicken extra crispy?

Double-dipping the chicken in the buttermilk and flour mixture and frying at a consistent oil temperature helps achieve maximum crispiness.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a party?

Yes, prepare the components in advance and reheat just before serving; assemble bowls last minute to keep the chicken crispy.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls recipe is a fantastic way to bring the beloved classic fast-food flavor right into your home kitchen. It’s hearty, comforting, and totally customizable, making it a win for busy cooks and flavor lovers alike. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite homemade comfort meal!

Related Posts

• How to Make Homemade Stromboli with Cheesy Meat Filling
• 5 Reasons Chili Lime Shrimp Bowl Wins Dinner
• How to Make Grilled Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella

Print