Copycat KFC Famous Bowl Recipe

This Copycat KFC Famous Bowl recipe brings the beloved fast food experience right to your kitchen. Perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying meal any day of the week, this dish combines crispy chicken nuggets, creamy mashed potatoes, and savory gravy all in one delightful bowl. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it is a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: Enjoy the delicious combination of crispy chicken, smooth mashed potatoes, and rich gravy.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap in different cheeses to make it your own.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, making dinner a breeze.
• No Special Skills Needed: Follow simple steps to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Copycat KFC Famous Bowl, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools that will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Air fryer
• Small saucepan
• Large mixing bowl
• Microwave

Why These Tools Matter

• Air fryer: Cooks the chicken nuggets quickly while ensuring they are crispy without excess oil.
• Small saucepan: Ideal for heating up gravy evenly without burning it.
• Large mixing bowl: Perfect for preparing mashed potatoes and combining ingredients seamlessly.
• Microwave: Great for steaming corn efficiently, saving time in meal preparation.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Nuggets

• 20 chicken nuggets or tenders (divided)

For the Corn

• 12 ounce bag frozen corn (divided)

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 8 ounce bag Idahoan Buttery Homestyle Mashed Potatoes (prepared and divided)

For the Gravy

• 18 ounce jar Heinz chicken gravy (divided)

For the Cheese

• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded and divided)

How to Make Copycat KFC Famous Bowl Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit. Once ready, place 10 nuggets in the basket in a single layer.

Step 2: Cook the Nuggets

Cook the nuggets for 7-10 minutes or until they are crispy and cooked through.

Step 3: Prepare Remaining Nuggets

Remove the cooked nuggets from the air fryer and place them on a plate. Add another batch of 10 nuggets to the basket and cook as instructed above.

Step 4: Heat the Gravy

While the nuggets are cooking, pour the gravy into a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat until bubbling, about 5-7 minutes. Stir often to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Adjust Heat on Gravy

Once bubbling, reduce heat to low and cover to keep warm.

Step 6: Steam the Corn

Steam corn in the microwave according to package instructions. Allow it to sit in the microwave once finished.

Step 7: Prepare Mashed Potatoes

In a large mixing bowl, prepare mashed potatoes according to package directions. Cover them until ready to assemble bowls.

Step 8: Assemble Your Bowls

To create each bowl, place 1 cup of mashed potatoes at the bottom. Top with ½ cup cooked corn, ⅓ cup hot gravy, ¼ cup shredded cheese, and finish with 5 crispy nuggets.

Step 9: Serve Hot

Enjoy your delicious Copycat KFC Famous Bowl hot out of your kitchen!

How to Serve Copycat KFC Famous Bowl Recipe

Serving your Copycat KFC Famous Bowl is all about adding the right touches to make it a satisfying meal. Here are some creative ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Add Some Freshness

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of parsley or cilantro for an herbal note that brightens the dish.

Pair with Crunchy Sides

• Coleslaw: Serve a side of coleslaw for a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the bowl.
• Pickles: Add some tangy pickles on the side for a delightful contrast in flavors.

Enhance with Dipping Sauces

• BBQ Sauce: Drizzle BBQ sauce over the bowl for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
• Hot Sauce: Provide hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick in their meal.

Make It a Family Style Meal

• Serve in a Platter: Place all components (mashed potatoes, nuggets, corn, gravy, and cheese) in serving bowls and let everyone build their own Famous Bowl.
• Include Extra Toppings: Offer additional toppings like jalapeños or croutons for added variety.

How to Perfect Copycat KFC Famous Bowl Recipe

Perfecting your Copycat KFC Famous Bowl takes just a few simple steps. Follow these tips to elevate your dish even further.

• Bold Cooking Method: Use an air fryer for crispy nuggets without excess oil. This keeps your dish healthier while achieving that desired crunch.
• Bold Gravy Technique: Stir the gravy frequently while heating to prevent sticking and ensure even warmth throughout.
• Bold Ingredient Quality: Choose high-quality chicken nuggets or tenders for better flavor and texture in your bowl.
• Bold Cheese Choice: Opt for sharp cheddar cheese to provide a more robust flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
• Bold Mashed Potatoes Tip: Make your mashed potatoes creamy by adding milk or butter while preparing them.
• Bold Serving Temperature: Ensure all components are hot when assembling the bowls to create a comforting, warm meal.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat KFC Famous Bowl Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat KFC Famous Bowl can make the meal even more enjoyable. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A deliciously buttery and garlicky bread can complement the savory flavors of your bowl perfectly.
2. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli or carrots add nutrition and color to your plate without overpowering flavors.
3. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to savory ingredients, making them an excellent addition.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges served with dipping sauces create an enjoyable crunch alongside your bowl.
5. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette offers a light and refreshing balance against the hearty bowl.
6. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and brightness, making it a perfect palate cleanser after your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Copycat KFC Famous Bowl at home can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Always ensure that your ingredients, especially the mashed potatoes and gravy, are hot when assembling the bowls. This keeps everything warm and delicious.
• Overcooking Nuggets: Be careful not to overcook the chicken nuggets, as they can become dry. Follow the cooking instructions closely for the best results.
• Skipping Seasoning: While the gravy adds flavor, don’t forget to season your mashed potatoes. A pinch of salt or a dash of butter can elevate the dish significantly.
• Not Dividing Ingredients Properly: Make sure to divide your ingredients as stated in the recipe. This ensures each bowl has the right balance of flavors and textures.
• Neglecting Presentation: Take a moment to layer your ingredients neatly in each bowl. A well-presented dish is always more appetizing!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for best quality.
• Keep separated items (like cheese) if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Copycat KFC Famous Bowl Recipe

• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers.
• Use within 2-3 months for optimal taste.
• Label with date and contents for easy identification later.

Reheating Copycat KFC Famous Bowl Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat. Stir frequently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I customize my Copycat KFC Famous Bowl Recipe?

You can add vegetables like peas or broccoli for extra nutrition. Feel free to mix up the cheese type or use different proteins like turkey nuggets.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare all components separately and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble just before serving for best results.

How do I keep my Copycat KFC Famous Bowl fresh?

Store leftovers properly in airtight containers and consume them within a few days. Follow storage guidelines for freezing if needed.

What sides go well with this meal?

Consider serving a light salad or some crispy breadsticks alongside your Copycat KFC Famous Bowl to complete the meal.

Conclusion

This Copycat KFC Famous Bowl recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors that makes it perfect for any dinner table. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to personal preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting meal straight from your kitchen!

---