If you’ve ever dreamed of enjoying the flavors of a KFC bowl from the comfort of your own home, this KFC Bowl Casserole is about to become your new favorite go-to dish. Imagine layers of tender, seasoned chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, and rich, melted cheese all baked together to golden perfection.
It’s everything you love about a classic KFC bowl—but turned into a comforting, shareable casserole. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this dish delivers big on flavor and ease. Pause for a moment and save this pin for recipe—because you’ll want to come back to this one again and again.
The beauty of this casserole lies not only in its taste but also in its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite cheeses, add a touch of spice, or even swap out the chicken for turkey or a vegetarian alternative. Perfectly hearty yet surprisingly simple to make, it’s a dish that satisfies cravings and brings the family together around the table.
From the first cheesy, savory bite to the last spoonful of creamy goodness, this casserole proves that you don’t need to hit the drive-thru to enjoy a comfort-food favorite.
KFC Bowl Casserole
Description
The KFC Bowl Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish inspired by the beloved fast-food classic.
Layers of tender chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, shredded cheese, and a rich gravy come together in a baked casserole that’s golden, bubbly, and irresistibly flavorful.
Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish transforms familiar flavors into a cozy, home-cooked meal.
Quick to assemble and satisfying to eat, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. Serve it with a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole doesn’t stick and will be easy to serve.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. This creamy base will anchor the casserole and keep every bite luscious and rich.
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Spread half of the mashed potato mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Next, add a layer of shredded chicken, ensuring it covers the potatoes. You can season the chicken lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika for extra flavor.
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Sprinkle the corn evenly over the chicken layer. Corn adds a touch of sweetness and texture that balances the creamy potatoes and savory chicken beautifully.
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Carefully spoon the remaining mashed potato mixture over the corn layer. Smooth it gently with a spatula to create an even top layer.
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Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top layer. Then, in a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese. This will create a golden, crunchy topping that mimics the crispy finishing touch of a KFC bowl.
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Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the topping is golden brown. The aromas filling your kitchen will make it impossible to wait until it’s done!
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Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or a light dusting of paprika for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 500kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 28g44%
- Saturated Fat 15g75%
- Cholesterol 90mg30%
- Sodium 850mg36%
- Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 30g60%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
The KFC Bowl Casserole is a beloved comfort food twist on the iconic fast-food bowl, combining layers of crispy chicken, mashed potatoes, corn, cheese, and savory gravy.
Making it at home gives you a chance to customize flavors, control ingredients, and elevate it with simple tricks. Here’s a comprehensive guide with tips, tricks, and serving ideas to get the best results every time.
1. Choosing the Right Chicken
The foundation of your casserole is the chicken. For a KFC-style flavor, use breaded chicken tenders or nuggets. Baking the chicken instead of frying can save time and reduce excess oil while still maintaining a crispy texture. For extra flavor, season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a hint of cayenne before baking. Cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces ensures even layering and easy serving.
2. Perfect Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are essential for the comfort factor. Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for smooth, buttery results. To save time, boil them until tender, then mash with butter, cream, or milk. For a richer flavor, mix in a little cream cheese or sour cream. You can also prepare mashed potatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge, then warm gently before assembling the casserole.
3. Corn and Veggie Layer Tips
Sweet corn adds texture and color to your KFC Bowl Casserole. Canned or frozen corn works fine, but fresh corn adds a pop of sweetness and crunch. You can also mix in other vegetables like peas or diced carrots for added nutrition and color. Lightly sautéing frozen vegetables can remove excess water and prevent a soggy casserole.
4. Gravy Magic
Gravy ties the dish together. Using a creamy chicken or white gravy is ideal, but you can experiment with a homemade version for a richer taste. Pour the gravy evenly over the layers to ensure every bite is flavorful. If using store-bought gravy, warm it gently to avoid clumps before pouring.
5. Cheese, Cheese, Cheese
Cheese is a non-negotiable element of this casserole. A combination of cheddar and mozzarella works perfectly—cheddar for flavor, mozzarella for meltiness. Sprinkle generously between layers and on top to create a golden, bubbly crust. For a fun twist, mix in a little Parmesan or pepper jack for a subtle kick.
6. Assembly and Layering Tricks
Layering is key for even flavor distribution. Start with mashed potatoes at the bottom, followed by corn/vegetables, chicken pieces, gravy, and cheese. Repeat layers if making a deep casserole dish. Press lightly with a spatula between layers to keep everything compact. For presentation, top with extra crispy chicken pieces and a sprinkle of paprika or fresh parsley.
7. Baking and Serving
Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to help it set and make slicing easier. Serve hot with a side salad or fresh bread rolls for a complete meal.
8. Serving Tricks
- Individual Portions: Use ramekins or small bowls to serve personalized portions.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Garnish: Add chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
9. Customization Tips
The beauty of this dish is flexibility. Swap chicken for turkey or tofu, use sweet potato mash instead of regular potatoes, or add mushrooms for a more earthy flavor. Adjust spice levels with chili powder, smoked paprika, or cayenne according to your taste.
Tips for Perfect KFC Bowl Casserole:
- Chicken Choice: Rotisserie chicken is convenient and flavorful, but you can also use leftover baked or fried chicken. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Mashed Potatoes: For a lighter version, use mashed cauliflower or a combination of potato and cauliflower.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar is classic, mozzarella or a Mexican blend can give a fun twist.
- Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bake for 35–40 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this casserole hot straight from the oven. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Individual portions can be scooped into bowls, just like the KFC original, making it fun for kids and adults alike. Leftovers store well in the fridge for 3–4 days, and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
Why You’ll Love It:
This KFC Bowl Casserole is more than just a copycat recipe—it’s a customizable comfort food dish that brings the joy of fast-food flavor to your own kitchen. The creamy mashed potatoes, savory chicken, sweet corn, and crispy, cheesy topping create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. It’s a cozy, satisfying meal perfect for cold nights, casual dinners, or when you simply crave something hearty and delicious.
Estimated Cost: Around $15–20 for 4–6 servings, depending on the type of chicken and cheese you use.
Estimated Time: 45–60 minutes (15–20 minutes prep, 25–30 minutes baking).
Conclution :
With these tips, tricks, and serving ideas, your homemade KFC Bowl Casserole will be just as comforting, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing as the fast-food favorite—if not better. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home-cooking repertoire.
Whether you’re a fan of the original KFC bowl or just love easy, cheesy casseroles, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Serve it warm, enjoy the creamy, cheesy layers, and relish the crispy topping—comfort food doesn’t get better than this!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a KFC Bowl Casserole?
The KFC Bowl Casserole is a homemade version of the famous KFC bowls. It layers mashed potatoes, seasoned chicken, corn, gravy, and cheese to recreate the comforting flavors of the restaurant dish. This casserole is perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes! Leftover roasted or fried chicken works perfectly. Simply shred or dice it and layer it into the casserole. Using pre-cooked chicken can also reduce cooking time, making the recipe even faster and convenient.
What are the best substitutions?
If you want a lighter version, swap mashed potatoes for cauliflower mash. For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with cooked chickpeas or a plant-based meat substitute. You can also use dairy-free cheese and gravy to suit dietary needs.
How do I store and reheat it?
Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual servings until heated through. This makes it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.
