Copycat KFC Mashed Potato Bowls

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty bowl of mashed potatoes topped with crispy chicken, savory gravy, and a sprinkle of cheese. The Copycat KFC Mashed Potato Bowls capture that warmth perfectly, making them a family favorite in our home. I first made these bowls on a chilly evening when we craved something cozy and filling. Each bite brought a smile, especially from the kids, who loved the fun layers of flavors and textures. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, crunchy popcorn chicken, and rich gravy was a hit! Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this comfort food classic at home.

Ingredients

• Chicken:
• 1 bag frozen popcorn chicken (about 24 ounces)
• Mashed Potatoes:
• 2 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
• 1/2 cup milk (or more, to taste)
• 1/4 cup butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Gravy:
• 2 packets gravy mix
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups water (or as directed on gravy packet)
• Other:
• 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

• Preheat your oven: If using frozen popcorn chicken, preheat the oven according to package instructions.
• Bake the chicken: Spread the popcorn chicken evenly on a baking sheet and cook until golden brown and crispy, usually about 15-20 minutes.

2. Make the Mashed Potatoes

• Prepare the potatoes: Peel and chop the potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water.
• Boil: Bring the water to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
• Mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.

3. Prepare the Gravy

• Combine ingredients: In a small saucepan, mix the gravy packets, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and water.
• Heat: Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for about 1 minute. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

4. Cook the Corn

• Microwave: Place the corn in a microwave-safe bowl with a tablespoon of water. Cover and microwave for about 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
• Season: Toss the corn with salt to taste.

5. Assemble the Bowls

• Layer: Spoon a generous amount of mashed potatoes into each bowl.
• Top: Add a layer of popcorn chicken, followed by corn, shredded cheddar cheese, and a generous drizzle of gravy.
• Garnish: If desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.

6. Serve

• Enjoy: Serve your delicious Copycat KFC Mashed Potato Bowls warm and enjoy this comforting meal!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 650
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 76g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve in individual bowls for a family-style dinner.
• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Offer extra toppings like hot sauce, additional cheese, or green onions for customization.

Additional Tips

1. Make it Creamy: For extra creamy mashed potatoes, add more milk or cream to your liking.
2. Homemade Gravy: For a fresher flavor, make homemade gravy from drippings if you roast chicken.
3. Add Veggies: Include peas or diced carrots in your corn mixture for added nutrition.
4. Spice it Up: Incorporate cayenne pepper into the gravy for a spicy kick.
5. Meal Prep: Assemble the bowls and store in the fridge for an easy reheat meal during the week.

Recipe Variations

• Healthier Option: Swap out the popcorn chicken for grilled chicken breast for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms and add more veggies.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the gravy.
• Pair with a light green salad for freshness.
• A glass of iced tea or lemonade complements the dish nicely.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze assembled bowls (without the cheese and gravy) for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding cheese and gravy after thawing.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen popcorn chicken?

• Yes, you can. Just cook it thoroughly before adding it to the bowls.

2. How do I make homemade mashed potatoes?

• Boil peeled and chopped potatoes, then mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.

3. Can I substitute the gravy packets?

• Absolutely! You can make your gravy from scratch using chicken broth and flour.

4. What if I don’t have corn?

• You can use other vegetables like peas or green beans.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

• No, but you can use gluten-free gravy packets and gluten-free pasta.

6. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

• Yes, you can prepare components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving.

7. How can I make this dish spicier?

• Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the gravy for an extra kick.

8. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

• Yes, you can cook the chicken in a slow cooker with the other ingredients for a more hands-off approach.

9. How long will the leftovers last?

• Leftovers will last about 3 days in the fridge.

10. Can I make this dairy-free?

• Yes, use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives for the mashed potatoes and topping.

Conclusion

These Copycat KFC Mashed Potato Bowls are the epitome of comfort food. With the creamy mashed potatoes, crispy chicken, and savory gravy, they are sure to satisfy any craving. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a fun family meal, this recipe is both delicious and easy to prepare. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this hearty dish that brings everyone to the table!

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