Easy Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls to Try Today

Looking for a crave-worthy meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls bring the beloved taste of KFC right to your kitchen with simple ingredients and a straightforward process. Perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a comforting dish loaded with crispy chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, savory gravy, and a sprinkle of cheese and vegetables. This recipe captures all the deliciousness of the original while allowing you to customize to your liking. Let’s dive into how you can whip up these satisfying bowls at home with ease.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed comfort: Each bite combines crispy chicken, creamy potatoes, and rich gravy for a truly indulgent experience.
• Quick and easy preparation: Simple steps make it a perfect recipe for busy days or last-minute dinners.
• Customizable ingredients: Easily swap or add components to suit your taste or dietary needs without losing that classic vibe.
• Budget-friendly meal: Uses common pantry staples and affordable ingredients to keep costs low.
• Perfect for meal prep: Makes great leftovers and reheats beautifully for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are easy to find but crucial for capturing the authentic Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls flavor. Each item brings something special from crispy texture to creamy richness and fresh toppings.

• Boneless chicken thighs or breasts: Use your preference for juicy and tender chicken pieces that crisp beautifully when seasoned and fried.
• Flour and seasoning mix: A blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a hint of cayenne mimics the classic KFC signature spice.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy and smooth, they act as the comforting base of the bowl.
• Chicken gravy: Rich and savory gravy ties all the flavors together perfectly.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds melty goodness and a touch of sharpness.
• Sweet corn kernels: For a pop of sweetness and bright color.
• Green onions or chives: Freshness and mild onion flavor to balance richness.
• Vegetable oil: For frying the chicken crisp and golden.

Variations for Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls

Feel free to make this recipe your own! The basic Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls framework allows room for creativity and adjustments to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

• Spicy kick: Add hot sauce or extra cayenne to the seasoning for a fiery twist.
• Oven-baked option: Swap frying for baking to reduce oil use and make it lighter.
• Vegetarian style: Replace chicken with crispy fried cauliflower or tofu bites for a meatless bowl.
• Loaded bowls: Incorporate extras like bacon bits, jalapeños, or avocado slices for added layers of flavor.
• Health-conscious: Use mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes and air-fry the chicken to lower carbs and fat.

How to Make Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the seasoning and coating

Mix flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper in a shallow dish. This creates the crispy flavorful crust that mimics KFC’s iconic chicken.

Step 2: Coat the chicken

Pat chicken pieces dry, then dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture. For extra crispy chicken, dip the chicken in buttermilk before coating again in the flour mixture twice.

Step 3: Fry the chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on size. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Prepare mashed potatoes

While the chicken fries, prepare smooth mashed potatoes by boiling peeled potatoes, mashing with butter, cream, salt, and pepper until creamy and lump-free.

Step 5: Make the gravy

In a separate saucepan, whisk together chicken broth, butter, flour, salt, pepper, and a splash of soy sauce for a rich, savory gravy. Simmer until thickened.

Step 6: Assemble the bowls

Layer a generous scoop of mashed potatoes in each bowl. Place fried chicken pieces on top, drizzle hot gravy over everything, then sprinkle shredded cheddar, sweet corn kernels, and chopped green onions for color and freshness.

Pro Tips for Making Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls

• Use room temperature chicken: Helps the coating stick better and cooks more evenly.
• Double-dip for extra crunch: Dipping twice in flour mixture creates that perfect crispy crust.
• Maintain oil temperature: Keeps chicken perfectly crispy without becoming greasy.
• Season your mash: Adding garlic or herbs enhances depth in mashed potatoes.
• Warm bowls before assembling: Keeps the entire dish hotter longer.

How to Serve Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls

Garnishes

Add chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh herbal note, or drizzle a little hot sauce for those who love some heat. Fresh green onions add crunch and vibrant color that brighten the dish.

Side Dishes

Serve these bowls with a side of coleslaw for crisp texture or a simple green salad to balance the richness. Cornbread or buttery dinner rolls also pair excellently to round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the bowl in mason jars or rustic cast iron skillets for a fun presentation. Layer ingredients visually or offer toppings buffet-style allowing guests to personalize their servings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover chicken, mashed potatoes, and gravy in separate airtight containers to preserve texture and flavor. Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze components separately—chicken pieces wrapped tightly, mashed potatoes in freezer-safe containers, and gravy in small portions—for up to 2 months. This helps maintain quality and easy thawing.

Reheating

Reheat chicken in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. Warm mashed potatoes and gravy gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring well before serving to keep everything creamy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Definitely! Chicken breasts can work well, but thighs typically remain juicier and more forgiving during frying.

How do I make the recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour blends for coating and ensure your gravy ingredients are gluten-free by selecting appropriate broths or thickening agents.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! These bowls reheat beautifully, making them a convenient option for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Absolutely, baking is a lighter alternative. Coat chicken as usual, then bake at 400°F (200°C) on a greased rack until golden and cooked through, about 25–30 minutes.

What vegetables can I add to the bowls?

Peas, green beans, roasted carrots, or even sautéed mushrooms make great additions, enhancing both nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls offer a fantastic way to enjoy a classic favorite with your own personal touch. They are simple to make, delightfully tasty, and endlessly customizable. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and start crafting these comforting bowls—you’ll wonder why you didn’t try making them sooner!

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