Name: Copy Cat KFC Famous Bowls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8-10 baking potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/4 cup half & half; 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened; Salt and pepper, to taste; 12-14 crispy chicken strips, cooked; 1 can golden corn kernels, warmed; 1 cup brown gravy; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself craving the rich, comforting flavors of KFC but want to recreate that magic right in your own kitchen, this Copy Cat KFC Famous Bowls Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a heartfelt, crave-worthy dish where creamy mashed potatoes meet crispy chicken strips, sweet corn, savory gravy, and melty cheddar cheese—each bite bursting with familiar goodness. Whether you’re making dinner for family or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers that iconic taste with a homemade touch that’s absolutely unforgettable.

Copy Cat KFC Famous Bowls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Copy Cat KFC Famous Bowls Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role, creating layers of flavor and texture that combine to form the bowl’s irresistible charm. From the creamy mashed potatoes to the crispy chicken strips and rich gravy, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to get started.

Baking potatoes (8-10, peeled and cubed): The creamy base of your bowl, perfect for mashing smooth and fluffy every time.
Half & half (1/4 cup): Adds richness and creaminess to the mashed potatoes without overpowering them.
Cream cheese (1 8 oz block, softened): Brings a velvety texture and subtle tang to the potato mixture.
Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that balance and enhance every component.
Crispy chicken strips (12-14, cooked): The protein-packed, crunchy star of the show that adds that unmistakable KFC feel.
Golden corn kernels (1 can, warmed): Adds a pop of sweetness and vibrant color for a well-rounded bite.
Brown gravy (1 cup): The luscious sauce that ties all the elements together with warmth and depth.
Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts perfectly over everything for gooey, cheesy goodness that you won’t want to skip.

How to Make Copy Cat KFC Famous Bowls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in your peeled and cubed baking potatoes, and let them cook for about 30 minutes until they’re tender and easily pierced with a fork. Drain them well, then go ahead and mash them until smooth. At this stage, season with salt and pepper to bring out flavor. Next, stir in the half & half and softened cream cheese. Combining these dairy elements makes the mashed potatoes incredibly creamy, with a perfect silky texture that’s crucial for the base of your bowls.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Strips

If your chicken strips aren’t already cooked, bake or fry them until wonderfully crispy and golden brown. This crunchiness contrasts beautifully with the softness of the potatoes. Once cooked, you can slice them into bite-sized pieces or leave them as strips depending on your preference.

Step 3: Warm the Corn and Gravy

The canned golden corn kernels need just a quick warming—either in a microwave or over low heat on the stove. The same goes for the brown gravy. Warm gravy is the comforting glue that holds each element of the dish together, so make sure it’s hot and ready when you assemble.

Step 4: Assemble Your Famous Bowls

Now, the fun part: take your bowl or serving dishes and start by spooning in a hearty helping of mashed potatoes. Layer on a generous portion of warmed corn kernels, then add your crispy chicken strips. Pour the hot brown gravy over the top, and finish with a shower of shredded cheddar cheese. The warmth from the gravy and potatoes will gently melt the cheese, creating that inviting look and gooey texture that makes this dish so special.

How to Serve Copy Cat KFC Famous Bowls Recipe

Garnishes

To brighten up your Copy Cat KFC Famous Bowls Recipe and add an extra layer of flavor, consider garnishing with finely chopped green onions or fresh parsley. These fresh herbs add a pop of color and a subtle freshness that cuts through the richness and ties the whole bowl together beautifully.

Side Dishes

This hearty bowl can be a meal all on its own, but if you want to round things out, try serving it alongside a crisp green salad or steamed veggies. The lightness of greens like arugula or a simple cucumber salad complements the indulgent flavors and balances the plate perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try layering your bowls in clear glass containers to show off each colorful layer from the creamy potatoes to the golden corn and tender chicken. This presentation makes it perfect for casual dinner parties or meal prepping your favorite Copy Cat KFC Famous Bowls Recipe for the week ahead.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Copy Cat KFC Famous Bowls Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the components together or separate to make reheating easier and to preserve texture.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the mashed potatoes and chicken separately for up to two months. Avoid freezing the gravy and cheese together, as their textures may change after thawing. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the bowl in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water if the mashed potatoes feel too thick. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to bring back that creamy consistency. Add fresh cheese on top and let it melt before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken strips for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and crisp them thoroughly before assembling your bowls to maintain that satisfying crunch that makes Copy Cat KFC Famous Bowls Recipe stand out.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the mashed potatoes?

If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, sour cream or Greek yogurt can be great alternatives that add creaminess and a slight tang to the mashed potatoes.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the crispy chicken strips with crispy tofu or seasoned seitan and use vegetarian gravy to keep the hearty, comforting vibe of the bowls intact.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, swap half & half and cream cheese for plant-based cream substitutes, and use dairy-free cheese and gravy to cater to dietary needs while maintaining taste.

How spicy is the dish? Can I add heat?

The Copy Cat KFC Famous Bowls Recipe as outlined is mild, focusing on savory and comforting flavors. If you love a kick, adding a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper works wonderfully without overwhelming other flavors.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely believe this Copy Cat KFC Famous Bowls Recipe is one of those cozy, satisfy-every-craving creations you’ll keep coming back to. It’s simple, layered with flavor, and a joy to put together anytime you want a taste of Southern comfort without needing to step foot outside your home. So grab those ingredients, and let your kitchen fill with the irresistible aromas of this fantastic dish—you’ll be so glad you did!

Copy Cat KFC Famous Bowls Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 7 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

This Copy Cat KFC Famous Bowls recipe recreates the beloved fast-food favorite at home, combining creamy mashed potatoes, crispy chicken strips, golden corn, savory gravy, and melted cheddar cheese into a comforting layered dish perfect for family dinners or game day treats.

Ingredients

Scale

Mashed Potatoes

8–10 baking potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/4 cup half & half
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
Salt and pepper, to taste

Toppings

12–14 crispy chicken strips, cooked
1 can golden corn kernels, warmed
1 cup brown gravy
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and cubed potatoes, and cook for about 30 minutes or until tender. Drain well and return the potatoes to the pot.
Mash the Potatoes: Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the half & half and softened cream cheese to the potatoes, continuing to mash until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
Warm the Corn and Chicken: While the potatoes cook, warm the golden corn kernels and cooked crispy chicken strips. You can heat the chicken in the oven or microwave until hot and crispy.
Heat the Gravy: Prepare or heat the brown gravy until hot and ready to serve.
Assemble the Bowls: In individual serving bowls, start by adding a generous layer of mashed potatoes. Top evenly with warmed corn kernels, followed by the crispy chicken strips. Pour hot brown gravy over the top and finish with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
Serve: Serve immediately while warm, allowing the cheddar cheese to melt slightly into the gravy and potatoes for a comforting and delicious bite.

Notes

You can substitute half & half with milk or cream for different creaminess levels.
For extra flavor, season the potatoes with garlic powder or onion powder.
Use rotisserie chicken pieces if you prefer homemade chicken instead of store-bought strips.
Make the brown gravy from scratch or use your favorite store-bought variety.
This recipe can be prepared ahead by making mashed potatoes and gravy in advance; reheat before assembling bowls.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Boiling, Mashing, Assembling
Cuisine: American