Crave-Worthy Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls Recipe

If you’ve ever craved that perfect combination of crispy chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich savory gravy all in one bowl, then this recipe for Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls is about to become your new favorite meal. This dish brings the much-loved fast-food classic right into your own kitchen with simple, accessible ingredients and straightforward steps, making it easy to enjoy that iconic flavor anytime you want. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just looking for a satisfying comfort meal, these bowls deliver satisfying layers of texture and taste that will keep you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and comforting: The crunchy fried chicken contrasts beautifully with soft mashed potatoes and smooth gravy for a perfect bite every time.
• Easy to make at home: Uses everyday ingredients and simple cooking techniques that anyone can master in under an hour.
• Customizable to your taste: Adapt the spice level, gravy richness, or toppings for a bowl that fits your cravings perfectly.
• Budget-friendly: An affordable way to enjoy a fast-food favorite without the drive-thru price or packaging waste.
• Family-approved: Kids and adults alike will love the familiar flavors packed into a wholesome meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls, you’ll want to gather a few essential ingredients that each play a key role in the overall flavor and texture—from juicy fried chicken to creamy, buttery mashed potatoes and rich, smooth gravy.

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Choose your favorite cut, ideally skin-on and boneless for easy frying and juicy meat.
• Flour and seasoning blend: A mix of all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper creates that signature crispy coating.
• Buttermilk: Marinates the chicken to keep it tender and moist before frying.
• Russet potatoes: Perfect for fluffier, creamier mashed potatoes.
• Butter and cream or milk: Adds richness and smooth texture to your mashed potatoes.
• Chicken stock or broth: Forms the flavorful base of your classic brown gravy.
• All-purpose flour for gravy: Thickens your gravy to that ideal silky consistency.
• Vegetable oil for frying: A neutral oil with a high smoke point is best for perfectly golden chicken.

Variations for Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls

Feel free to tailor these bowls to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences. This recipe is amazingly flexible and welcoming to creative twists!

• Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your chicken coating to turn up the heat.
• Healthier option: Swap fried chicken for oven-baked or air-fried to reduce fat, still tasty but lighter.
• Vegetarian twist: Use crispy fried cauliflower or mushrooms instead of chicken for a plant-based delight.
• Gravy upgrade: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a richer, heartier gravy.
• Cheesy mash: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan to the mashed potatoes for a gooey surprise.

How to Make Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by marinating your chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. This tenderizes the meat and infuses moisture to keep it juicy inside after frying.

Step 2: Make the Crispy Coating

Mix your flour blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove chicken from the marinade and dredge well in the flour mixture, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated for that signature crispy crust.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the chicken pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding, until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Prepare Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken fries, peel and chop potatoes and boil in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash with butter and cream or milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then slowly whisk in chicken broth and cook until thickened and smooth. Season with salt and pepper, and adjust consistency as desired.

Step 6: Assemble the Bowls

Layer mashed potatoes into bowls, top with crispy fried chicken, then pour generous amounts of warm gravy over everything. Serve immediately for the best experience.

Pro Tips for Making Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls

• Marinate longer: The longer your chicken soaks in buttermilk, the juicier and more flavorful it becomes.
• Double dredge: For extra crunch, dip chicken back into buttermilk and coat with flour mixture twice.
• Maintain oil temperature: Use a thermometer to keep oil steady at 350°F for even frying without greasiness.
• Don’t overmix potatoes: Mash gently to avoid gummy texture, preserving fluffy creaminess.
• Keep gravy warm: Prepare gravy last and keep on low heat to serve piping hot and silky.

How to Serve Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top to add a pop of color and subtle freshness that brightens the rich flavors.

Side Dishes

Pair with simple sides like steamed green beans, corn on the cob, or a crisp garden salad to balance the indulgence of the bowl.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering your bowls in clear glass containers for a fun visual reveal, or offer a DIY station where guests can build their own bowls with extra toppings like shredded cheese, bacon bits, or pickles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to preserve texture and flavor.

Freezing

Fried chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months, but mashed potatoes and gravy freeze best when stored individually in airtight containers to prevent sogginess.

Reheating

Reheat chicken in an oven rather than microwave to retain crispiness, and warm mashed potatoes and gravy gently on the stove to maintain creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While thighs are juicier, chicken breasts work well too—just be careful not to overcook them as they dry out faster.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Yes, swap regular flour for gluten-free all-purpose flour and use a gluten-free gravy mix or homemade gluten-free roux to keep it safe and delicious.

How can I make the gravy thicker?

Increase the roux by adding a bit more flour when cooking the gravy or simmer it longer to reduce and thicken naturally.

Can I prepare this recipe vegan?

For a vegan version, substitute chicken with fried tofu or cauliflower, use plant-based milk for mashed potatoes, and make a vegetable-based gravy.

What’s the best oil for frying chicken?

Use neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil to achieve crispy chicken without burning the coating.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about enjoying Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls fresh from your own kitchen—a cozy, nostalgic meal that hits all the comfort food notes perfectly. With crispy chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and savory gravy, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to prepare and endlessly satisfying. Give it a try and watch how quickly these bowls become a go-to favorite for family dinners or anytime you crave that unbeatable KFC-inspired goodness.

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