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Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls

Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls

Enjoy the iconic flavor of crispy fried chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich savory gravy all in one bowl with these Homemade KFC Copycat Bowls. Made with straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this comforting dish brings a fast-food favorite into your kitchen, perfect for family dinners or casual meals. Customizable and budget-friendly, these bowls deliver satisfying layers of texture and taste to keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • Chicken thighs or breasts, skin-on and boneless, about 2 lbs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Vegetable oil for frying (enough for deep frying, about 4 cups)

Mashed Potatoes

  • 2 lbs russet potatoes (about 4 large potatoes)
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • ½ cup cream or milk
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Gravy

  • 4 tbsp butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken stock or broth
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Marinate chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to tenderize and keep the meat juicy when fried.
  2. Make the Crispy Coating: In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove chicken from marinade and dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
  3. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches, avoiding overcrowding, for about 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
  4. Prepare Mashed Potatoes: Peel and chop russet potatoes. 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.
  5. Make the Gravy: In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then slowly whisk in chicken broth. Cook until thickened and smooth. Season with salt and pepper, adjusting consistency as desired.
  6. Assemble the Bowls: Layer mashed potatoes in bowls, top with crispy fried chicken pieces, and pour warm gravy generously over everything. Serve immediately for best results.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken longer for juicier, more flavorful meat.
  • For extra crunch, double dredge by dipping chicken again in buttermilk and flour mixture.
  • Maintain oil temperature at 350°F to ensure even frying and avoid greasiness.
  • Mash potatoes gently to keep them fluffy and avoid gummy texture.
  • Prepare gravy last and keep warm on low heat to serve piping hot.

Nutrition

Keywords: KFC copycat, fried chicken bowl, mashed potatoes, homemade gravy, comfort food, fast food copycat