Are you craving the perfect blend of hearty comfort food that can be whipped up in no time? Well, you’re in luck! Today, we’re talking about the ultimate comfort dish that is the Copycat KFC Famous Bowl Casserole, one of the best comfort meals that will make your tastebuds do a happy dance. The great thing about it is that it is incredibly simple.
Why This Recipe Works
Ever wondered what makes this recipe a super-hit? Let’s unwrap the secret:
- KFC’s Cousin: By using sweet corn and cheddar cheese, you bring the authentic taste of the original KFC Famous Bowl right into your kitchen. It’s like inviting Colonel Sanders himself for dinner, but without the white suit!
- All Cooks on Deck: Whether you’re a beginner trying to impress your in-laws or a seasoned home cook looking to experiment, this recipe has got your back. Detailed yet simple, it’s like having a GPS for cooking.
- Family Feasts: This dish guarantees to have your whole family licking their fingers clean, just like the original. But remember, no fighting over the last piece! It’s an easy dinner recipe.
This casserole version brings that same delectable combo of creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, crispy chicken, rich cheese, and home-style gravy right to your kitchen.
About KFC Famous Bowl Casserole
The KFC Famous Bowl Casserole, more like a food celebrity, has been winning hearts and taste buds since its inception. An iconic mixture of mashed potatoes, corn, chicken, gravy, and cheese, it’s the culinary equivalent of a warm hug. Originating from the KFC kitchens, it quickly climbed the popularity charts to become a global sensation. Today, we’ll unlock its secrets right here, in your home kitchen.
The original KFC Famous Bowl, with its bite-sized chunks of crispy chicken, became an instant hit due to its rich flavors and satisfying textures. This easy recipe brings you a close replica, allowing you to enjoy this famous bowl right at home.
Ingredients
For this copycat KFC bowl recipe you need:
- Chicken: Chicken nuggets, chicken tenders, chicken strips, or chicken breast. The star of the show, the chicken brings the protein and the flavor. You can even make use of leftovers!
- Mashed Potatoes: Either homemade or instant. They form the creamy base of your casserole and are key for that comforting, homely taste.
- Sweet Corn: A vital ingredient in the original KFC Bowl, the sweet corn brings a juicy crunch and adds some much-needed veggie power.
- Cheddar Cheese: This brings the ooey-gooey goodness that ties all the flavors together. Remember, the sharper, the better!
- Gravy: It’s what brings all the ingredients together and adds that saucy finish. You can use homemade, canned, or instant – just make sure it’s flavorful.
Equipment
Time to bring out the big guns. For this recipe, you’ll need:
- Casserole Dish: This is where all your ingredients come together. Look for a deep dish that can comfortably hold all your ingredients.
- Saucepan: For making your mashed potatoes and heating up your gravy.
- Oven or Air Fryer: To bake the casserole to perfection. Remember, we want that cheese bubbling and golden.
- Optional – Individual Serving Bowls: If you prefer personal portions or if you want to impress guests with individual servings, these come in handy.
- Optional – Potato Masher and Potato Peeler: If you decide to make your own homemade mashed potatoes. You can even use a hand mixer.
Preparation Steps
Here’s how to get everything ready:
- Chicken Prep: If you’re using chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces, season with garlic powder, and cook until golden brown. Garlic powder, chicken’s best friend, adds a depth of flavor and a kick of savory goodness.
- Mashed Potato Magic: Prepare your mashed potatoes as per package instructions or whip up your homemade ones. Remember, fluffiness is key!
- Cheese and Corn: Grate your cheese and drain your corn. The cheese brings that melt-in-your-mouth sensation, while the corn adds a sweet crunch.
Making Your Own Mashed Potatoes
An easy way to make your own mashed potatoes for this casserole starts with selecting the right potatoes. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal due to their higher starch content, which makes for fluffier mashed potatoes.
Here’s a simple method:
- Peel and Cut: Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into even, bite-sized chunks. This ensures that they cook evenly.
- Boil: Next, place them in a large pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil and continue to cook the potatoes until they’re tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and Mash: Once they’re cooked, drain the potatoes and put them back into the pot. This is where your potato masher comes in handy! Mash the potatoes until they’re as smooth or chunky as you like.
- Add Ingredients: While the potatoes are still hot, add some butter, milk, and a bit of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the potatoes are creamy and smooth.
Remember, homemade mashed potatoes will make your KFC Famous Bowl Casserole even more comforting. It might take a bit of extra effort, but the result is well worth it.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s get cooking:
- Layer One – Potatoes: Spread your mashed potatoes in a single layer at the bottom of the casserole dish. The potatoes form a pillowy base for the rest of the ingredients.
- Layer Two – Corn: Evenly spread the corn on top of the mashed potatoes. This layer is all about the juicy pops of sweetness amidst the rich, savory layers.
- Layer Three – Chicken: Arrange your cooked chicken pieces over the corn. It’s like hiding nuggets of gold in your casserole!
- Layer Four – Cheese and Gravy: Sprinkle cheese over the chicken, then pour the gravy all over. Pop the casserole into a preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
And voila, your KFC Famous Bowl Casserole is ready! Don’t forget to let it cool for a few minutes before digging in – patience is a virtue, especially when dealing with delicious food!
Want it in individual bowls for personal servings? Done! The beauty of a copycat recipe is the flexibility it offers.
Substitutions and Variations
Craving to add your unique spin? Here are some options:
- Vegan Venture: Swap the chicken for tofu or seitan, and use vegan cheese and gravy.
- Different Proteins: No chicken at hand? Try turkey or even beef strips. Remember, variety is the spice of life!
- Cheese Choices: Prefer a different type of cheese? Swap cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for a flavor twist. Remember, life’s too short to not experiment with cheese!
- Want to add some veggies for a healthier twist? Why not?
Expert Tips
Unlock the pro chef within you with these handy tips:
- Moisture Matters: Ensure the casserole isn’t too dry by keeping a close eye during baking. Because no one likes a Sahara dessert, let alone a desert!
- Perfect Gravy Consistency: Aim for the Goldilocks zone – not too thick, not too thin. That’s when you know your gravy has hit the jackpot.
- Chicken Choices: Using different types of chicken? You might need to adjust the cooking time. A word of advice – better safe than sorry!
- Ensure your chicken is truly crispy before assembling the casserole. Crispy popcorn chicken is what gives this recipe its distinctive flavor and texture. If it’s not crispy enough, it might get soggy in the gravy – and nobody likes a soggy dinner!
FAQs
Can I use real mashed potatoes instead of instant ones?
Absolutely! In fact, using real mashed potatoes might make your dish taste even better.
How do I reheat my KFC Famous Bowl?
The best way is to warm it in the oven at a low temperature. This keeps the casserole moist and delicious. Microwaving, while quick, might dry it out.
Can I make smaller portions?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for one or want to portion control, simply divide the ingredients among individual bowls. This is also a great trick for serving guests.
Can I use a potato masher for the mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Using a potato masher will give you chunkier, more textured mashed potatoes, while a ricer or blender will result in smoother potatoes. It’s all about personal preference.
Serving Suggestions
Wondering what to serve with your KFC Famous Bowl? Try these:
- Healthy Companion: Pair it with a side salad for a balanced meal. Because greens and cheese, they’re a match made in heaven!
- Bread Rolls: Serve with bread rolls to mop up the gravy. It’s a win-win situation!
- Garlic Bread: Enjoy your KFC Famous Bowl Casserole with a garlic bread for an extra level of yumminess.
Storing
Got leftovers? Here’s what to do:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. Longer than most of my diets!
- Freezing: You can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. It’s like giving your future self a delicious present!
Final Words
So folks, that’s how you recreate the magic of the KFC Famous Bowl Casserole right at home. It’s an easy meal, and ready in a matter of minutes! Give it a shot, get creative, and most importantly, have fun with it. And remember, the best part of cooking is eating the result, so get those spoons ready and dig in!
Homemade KFC Famous Bowl Casserole Copycat Recipe
Equipment
- Casserole dish
- Saucepan
- Oven
- Individual serving bowls (optional)
- Potato masher (optional)
- Potato peeler (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken nuggets chicken tenders, or chicken breast
- 2 cups mashed potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 cup sweet corn canned or frozen
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup chicken gravy store-bought or homemade
- salt and pepper to taste
Homemade Mashed Potatoes (optional)
- 4 potatoes ideally large Russet or Yukon Gold
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese for creamier texture, optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Chicken: If you're using chicken breast, cut it into bite-sized chunks and fry until crispy. Chicken nuggets or tenders can be heated following their package instructions.
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes. Boil until tender, then drain and mash. Stir in milk, butter, and season to taste with salt and pepper.
Making Your Own Mashed Potatoes
- Peel and Cut: Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into even, bite-sized chunks. This ensures that they cook evenly.
- Boil: Next, place them in a large pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil and continue to cook the potatoes until they're tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and Mash: Once they're cooked, drain the potatoes and put them back into the pot. This is where your potato masher comes in handy! Mash the potatoes until they're as smooth or chunky as you like.
- Add Ingredients: While the potatoes are still hot, add some butter, milk, and a bit of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the potatoes are creamy and smooth.
Cooking
- Assemble the Casserole: In a casserole dish, spread a layer of mashed potatoes. Distribute the corn evenly on top, followed by the chicken and cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Warm the gravy and pour over individual servings. Enjoy your homemade KFC Famous Bowl Casserole while it's hot!
Notes
- Variation in Protein: You can switch out the chicken for other proteins like chicken strips or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to use your favorite type of cheese. Mozzarella or Monterey Jack are good options too.
- Mashed Potato Tip: If you want a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to your mashed potatoes.
- Moisture Matters: Ensure the casserole isn’t too dry by keeping a close eye during baking. Because no one likes a Sahara dessert, let alone a desert!
- Perfect Gravy Consistency: Aim for the Goldilocks zone – not too thick, not too thin. That’s when you know your gravy has hit the jackpot.
- Chicken Choices: Using different types of chicken? You might need to adjust the cooking time. A word of advice – better safe than sorry!
- Ensure your chicken is truly crispy before assembling the casserole. Crispy popcorn chicken is what gives this recipe its distinctive flavor and texture. If it’s not crispy enough, it might get soggy in the gravy – and nobody likes a soggy dinner!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the components of this dish ahead of time for quick assembly. Just keep everything refrigerated until you’re ready to bake.
- Reheating: Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven. Just make sure to add a bit of extra gravy to keep it moist.
- Homemade Mashed Potatoes: If you’re making your own mashed potatoes, remember to choose a starchy potato like Russet or Yukon Gold for the fluffiest result.