Bring Kentucky's Famous Flavor to Your Kitchen with Homemade KFC Bowls

Photo byPatricia Baker

When it comes to comfort food, Kentucky knows how to deliver. The rich culinary heritage of the Bluegrass State has given the world one of the most iconic fast-food meals: the KFC Bowl. Packed with layers of creamy mashed potatoes, crispy popcorn chicken, sweet corn, hearty gravy, and melty cheese, this dish is the epitome of home-style goodness. While it’s easy to pick up from a KFC restaurant, there’s something special about recreating that same deliciousness in your own kitchen.

The KFC Bowl is a true celebration of everything that makes comfort food irresistible. Every layer contributes to a bite that’s both satisfying and indulgent, making it perfect for a cozy dinner, a family gathering, or a weekend treat. Now, with this copycat recipe, you can bring Kentucky’s signature comfort food straight to your table.

Recipe: Copycat KFC Bowls, Kentucky Style

Ingredients:

• 6 servings of mashed potatoes (instant or homemade)
• 1 24 oz package of cooked popcorn chicken
• 1 15 oz can of corn (drained and heated)
• 1 package of beef gravy (cooked according to package instructions)
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Start by making six servings of mashed potatoes. You can use instant potatoes for a quick fix, or make them homemade if you prefer that rich, creamy texture.
2. Cook the Popcorn Chicken: Bake or air fry the popcorn chicken according to the package instructions until golden and crispy.
3. Heat the Corn: Warm up the corn by either microwaving it or heating it on the stovetop. Drain the liquid beforehand.
4. Make the Gravy: Use a brown gravy packet or prepare your favorite homemade gravy. Make sure it's thick and smooth to coat all the layers perfectly.
5. Assemble the Bowls: In individual serving bowls, start with a generous layer of mashed potatoes. Add a layer of corn, followed by the crispy chicken pieces. Pour the rich gravy over the top, and finish with a handful of shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Serve: Enjoy your Copycat KFC Bowl immediately while everything is still warm and gooey.

A Taste of Kentucky in Every Bite

Each bite of these copycat KFC bowls is a delightful experience of flavors and textures. The smooth mashed potatoes, crunchy chicken, and savory gravy all come together in perfect harmony, while the cheddar cheese adds an extra layer of creaminess. This is a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table, and the best part? You don’t even have to leave the house to enjoy it.

Whether you’re a fan of KFC or just someone who loves a hearty, comfort-filled meal, these bowls will hit the spot. Plus, they’re customizable—add extra gravy, swap out the cheese, or even throw in some bacon for an extra twist. The KFC Bowl isn’t just a meal; it’s a Kentucky tradition you can now make your own.

The KFC Famous Bowl has become a beloved comfort food, and making a copycat version at home is surprisingly easy. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, crispy popcorn chicken, sweet corn, rich gravy, and melted cheddar cheese is what makes this dish irresistible. It’s a fantastic option for busy families looking for a quick yet hearty meal.

When recreating this bowl, you can either use instant mashed potatoes or go for homemade to elevate the flavor. Similarly, frozen popcorn chicken is an easy choice, but you can also make your own from scratch for that extra homemade touch. Gravy can be prepared using a packet mix, such as McCormick's brown gravy, or a homemade version if you're feeling ambitious​(The Recipe Critic)​(Mashed). To top it all off, shredded cheddar cheese is added, providing that final cheesy goodness​(The Beard and The Baker)​(Food Lovin Family).

This homemade version gives you the flexibility to adjust the recipe to your preferences. For example, try using an air fryer to make the chicken extra crispy, or swap in white gravy or different veggies to switch things up. The beauty of this copycat recipe is that it’s adaptable while maintaining the comforting essence of the original​(The Recipe Critic)​(The Beard and The Baker).

For more details and tips on perfecting this recipe, you can explore variations and additional customization options online​(Mashed).