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When that takeout craving hits but you want to keep things cozy at your place, these KFC Bowls totally nail it. You only need five super easy things, it all comes together super fast, and everyone will want seconds. Perfect when you’ve gotta get dinner done quick but want everyone happy and full.
This dish popped up at our house after a long day running around the park with the kids and everyone was pumped Now, it’s our Friday tradition because it takes zero stress and leaves empty plates all around
Easy Ingredients
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy goodness right on top Grab a block for top notch meltiness or go with your favorite shredded mix
- Popcorn chicken: Crunchy chicken bites that make it super fun Try to use real chicken breast pieces for best flavor Or make ‘em yourself with homemade breading
- Mashed potatoes: Fluffy, buttery potatoes build your bowl Use an instant mix for fast prep or whip up homemade if you’ve got the time
- Corn: Juicy kernels bring some sweetness and a pop of color Use canned, frozen, or even fresh Just drain so you don’t get it soggy
- Beef gravy: Rich, warm goodness ties everything together Go low sodium if you want to watch salt Just heat till it’s bubbling for best results
Super Simple Steps
- Mix Up The Bowls:
- Layer the warm potatoes in a bowl first, toss on corn, scoop on chicken, spoon over the hot gravy, and top everything with cheddar Let it sit so the cheese melts before you dig in
- Make The Gravy:
- Combine gravy mix with water, simmer on the stovetop, and stir until it’s thick and shiny
- Heat The Corn:
- Thoroughly drain corn and warm it up on the stove or in the microwave Stir now and then for even heat
- Bake The Chicken:
- Follow the box directions for the popcorn chicken Get it hot and crispy
- Prep The Potatoes:
- Cook up mashed potatoes (about six servings) using boxed mix or your own recipe Keep ‘em warm so they stay soft
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Good To Know
- All the parts keep nicely in separate containers in the fridge so making ahead is easy
- Homemade mashed potatoes or gravy make this taste even better
- I love piling on extra cheddar at the end—it brings back memories of sharing a cheezy bowl feast as a Friday treat with my family Now, my kids get excited for movie nights when these bowls are on the table
How To Store
Keep leftovers in different airtight containers for three days max The best way to reheat potatoes and chicken is in the microwave, but if you want crunch on your chicken, a toaster oven works great Put bowls together fresh for the tastiest results
Switch Ups
If chicken strips are more your thing, chop them small and use those Try roasted cauliflower or rotisserie chicken if you want a lighter bite Want that famous Mac bowl flavor instead? Use mac and cheese instead of potatoes, then skip the corn and gravy
What To Serve With
These bowls stand alone but a green salad on the side never hurts Hot sauce or zesty ranch totally level up the flavor For parties, dish them up in small cups and let everybody make their own combo
Where It Comes From
Dishes like this pull from American comfort food, mixing Sunday dinner favorites all in one bowl You build up the flavors and layers so every spoonful feels a bit different and always satisfying
Common Recipe Questions
- → Which mashed potatoes should I use?
Both homemade and instant mashed potatoes work. Just pick the one you like best for that creamy layer.
- → Can I use chicken tenders instead of popcorn chicken?
For sure! Just cut up some cooked chicken tenders so you get that same nice chicken crunch.
- → What gravy swaps are good here?
No worries! Put on chicken gravy, brown gravy, or any other you love. Use whatever goes best with your chicken and potatoes.
- → Got ideas for other toppings?
Try sneaking in mixed veggies for the corn, or trade out potatoes for mac and cheese. Use a spicy kind of cheese if you want more zing.
- → Will these bowls keep if I make them in advance?
Yep! Just keep everything separate until you're ready to eat. Mix them up right before serving so they stay fresh and tasty.