Copycat KFC Famous Bowl

Craving the comfort of a KFC Famous Bowl without leaving your kitchen This homemade bowl delivers all the layers you love creamy mashed potatoes buttery corn savory gravy crispy nuggets and a cheesy finish. It feels like fast food magic but comes together with pantry favorites using your air fryer and microwave.

The first time I made these copycat bowls at home my family could not believe how close they tasted to the real thing. Now this shortcut meal is our go to on chilly evenings when we want fuss free satisfaction.

Ingredients

• Chicken nuggets or tenders twenty pieces: Look for high quality frozen tenders with a juicy texture and flavorful breading for the best crunch
• Frozen corn twelve ounce bag: Choose sweet corn for the classic taste and vibrant color canned corn works in a pinch but frozen yields the freshest results
• Idahoan Buttery Homestyle Mashed Potatoes eight ounce bag: This speedy option whips up light and fluffy Just check the ingredients list to avoid brands with fillers or fake flavors
• Heinz chicken gravy eighteen ounce jar: Smooth savory and full of depth this ready made gravy keeps things quick but you can upgrade with homemade if you have extra time
• Cheddar cheese one cup shredded: Choose sharp cheese for bolder flavor and grate it yourself for a creamier melt

Instructions

Preheat and Cook Nuggets:

Set your air fryer to three hundred sixty degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange ten nuggets in a single layer in the basket so everything gets evenly crisp. Cook for seven to ten minutes until the coating is golden and the insides are hot and juicy. Transfer to a plate and repeat with the next batch of ten nuggets.

Warm the Gravy:

Pour the gravy into a small saucepan. Set over medium low heat and stir patiently until it reaches a gentle bubble after about five to seven minutes. Once hot reduce the heat and cover to keep it steamy while you finish the rest.

Steam the Corn:

Microwave the whole bag of frozen corn following the directions on your package. When it is done let it sit in the microwave for a couple minutes to finish steaming and avoid burns when handling the bag.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

Empty the mashed potato flakes into a large mixing bowl. Prepare with hot water or milk using the instructions on the package. Whip until smooth and keep covered so the potatoes stay steamy and soft until assembly.

Assemble the Bowls:

Begin layering with one cup mashed potatoes in each bowl. Sprinkle half a cup of steamy corn over the potatoes for sweetness and color. Add one third cup hot gravy per bowl and scatter one quarter cup shredded cheese over everything. Finally top each bowl with five crispy nuggets and serve while it is piping hot.

My favorite part of this bowl is the combination of piping hot rich gravy with the crispiness of the nuggets Sometimes my kids volunteer to sprinkle the cheese making it a family dinner everyone builds together

Storage Tips

Store leftover bowls in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days but keep the nuggets separate so you can re-crisp them in the air fryer or oven before serving. Mashed potatoes may thicken in the fridge just stir in a splash of milk when reheating for creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use baked or grilled chicken if you want a lighter option or swap with plant based nuggets for a vegetarian version. Homemade mashed potatoes bring more flavor when you have extra time. Turkey or beef gravy can also work if that is what you have.

Serving Suggestions

Round out the meal with a simple side salad or coleslaw for something fresh and crunchy. I sometimes serve these bowls as mini versions for kids or as a party platter where guests build their own customized bowls.

Cultural Historical Context

KFC Famous Bowls debuted in the mid two thousands as the ultimate comfort dinner in one dish. They combine classic American elements mashed potatoes corn fried chicken cheese and gravy into endlessly craveable layers.

Seasonal Adaptations

Swap in roasted vegetables like carrots or peas for colder months Switch to turkey or ham gravy after a holiday meal for a twist Crisp fresh corn kernels in late summer add a burst of sweetness

Success Stories

The first time I made the bowls from scratch my pickiest eater asked for seconds and we have kept the recipe in rotation ever since. We have even turned it into a build your own bowl night where everyone adds their favorite toppings.

Freezer Meal Conversion

To make ahead assemble all the components except the nuggets. Freeze mashed potatoes corn and gravy in a big freezer safe dish. Bake or air fry fresh nuggets and cheese when ready to serve for the best crunch.

Experimenting with this bowl has helped my family bust dinnertime boredom and brought everyone together around a big cozy meal. You will be surprised how often you find yourself craving these comforting layers at home.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of chicken is best?

Breaded chicken nuggets or tenders work well for an authentic texture and flavor.

→ Can I use homemade mashed potatoes?

Absolutely—creamy homemade mash adds a personal touch, but store-bought is convenient for speed.

→ Is it possible to make the dish ahead of time?

You can prepare individual components in advance. Assemble just before serving for best results.

→ What other cheeses can be used?

Cheddar melts best, but Monterey Jack or a blend can add new flavors and texture.

→ Can I substitute the gravy?

Chicken or turkey gravy matches the original, but beef or mushroom gravy also works for a twist.

→ How can I make it healthier?

Try oven-baked or air-fried chicken, low-fat cheese, and reduced-sodium gravy for a lighter meal.