Easy Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls with Mashed Potatoes

If you’re craving a deliciously satisfying comfort meal, look no further than Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls with Mashed Potatoes. This dish brings together crispy, seasoned chicken pieces layered over creamy mashed potatoes and topped with savory gravy, creating the perfect blend of flavors and textures that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Easy to prepare and full of classic, mouthwatering goodness, these bowls are an irresistible family favorite that’s perfect any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic comfort food: Replicates the iconic taste of KFC in your own kitchen without the fast-food lines.
• Easy to prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Perfect for meal prep: Makes great leftovers you can enjoy throughout the week.
• Customizable flavors: You can adjust spices, toppings, and sides to suit your preferences.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the crunchy chicken and creamy sides.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls with Mashed Potatoes lies in simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor, crunch, and creaminess. Each component plays a crucial role, from the juicy chicken to the velvety mashed potatoes and rich gravy that ties it all together.

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Choose tender pieces for juicy and flavorful chicken.
• Flour and seasoning mix: The secret to that iconic crispy coating with herbs and spices.
• Potatoes: Use Russet or Yukon Gold for smooth, creamy mashed potatoes.
• Butter and milk: Essential for rich and silky mashed potatoes texture.
• Chicken broth or gravy mix: Adds savory moisture to the bowl and enhances flavor.
• Oil for frying: Necessary for achieving the perfect golden crust on the chicken.

Variations for Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls with Mashed Potatoes

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to tweak ingredients and flavors for different dietary needs or simply to keep things exciting. Feel free to explore these creative twists to make your bowl truly your own.

• Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your seasoning mix for a fiery twist.
• Gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free blends for crispiness without gluten.
• Vegetarian alternative: Swap chicken for crispy fried tofu or cauliflower bites seasoned like the original.
• Healthier version: Bake the chicken instead of frying to reduce oil content while keeping flavor.
• Extra toppings: Add shredded cheese, green onions, or corn for more texture and taste.

How to Make Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls with Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Start by peeling and chopping your potatoes into even pieces and boiling them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well, then mash with butter and warm milk until smooth and creamy, seasoning to taste with salt and pepper. Set aside and keep warm.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken Coating

In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour with a mix of herbs and spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This blend is the key to recreating that irresistibly flavorful KFC-style crust.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Pat your chicken pieces dry and dip them in buttermilk or beaten egg to help the coating stick. Dredge the chicken thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing to ensure a thick crust that will stay crispy after cooking.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to around 350°F (175°C). Carefully place breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 5: Prepare the Gravy

While the chicken fries, whisk together chicken broth and a simple gravy roux made of butter and flour in a saucepan. Cook until thickened and smooth, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. This gravy is what makes the bowls truly comfort food royalty.

Step 6: Assemble the Bowls

Layer warm mashed potatoes at the base of your bowls, place crispy fried chicken pieces on top, and generously spoon over the savory gravy. Add any extra toppings like chives or cheese if desired, then serve immediately for the best experience.

Pro Tips for Making Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls with Mashed Potatoes

• Use buttermilk: Soaking chicken in buttermilk tenderizes and helps the coating adhere better.
• Maintain oil temperature: Keep your frying oil steady to avoid greasy or undercooked chicken.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry chicken in batches for even cooking and crispiness.
• Season everything well: From potatoes to coating, seasoning enhances every bite.
• Rest chicken after frying: Let fried chicken rest on a rack for a few minutes to keep crust crisp.

How to Serve Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls with Mashed Potatoes

Garnishes

Top your bowls with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and brightness. Adding shredded cheddar cheese or crispy bacon bits can elevate the flavor and texture even more, creating an appealing meal that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Side Dishes

Pair these bowls with classic sides like coleslaw, steamed green beans, or roasted corn for a well-rounded, satisfying feast. A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken and mashed potatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your chicken bowls in individual mason jars for a fun, portable option perfect for potlucks or picnics. Alternatively, use rustic cast-iron skillets or colorful bowls to highlight the warm, comforting nature of the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover chicken, mashed potatoes, and gravy stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This prevents sogginess and keeps each component fresh until you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover mashed potatoes and chicken (without gravy) for up to 2 months. Wrap the chicken tightly to protect its coating, and place mashed potatoes in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat chicken in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness. Warm mashed potatoes gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Heat gravy separately and pour over just before serving for best results.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well, but thighs tend to stay juicier and less prone to drying out during frying.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Is it possible to bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier option. Coat the chicken as usual, then bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.

How do I make the gravy from scratch?

Use equal parts butter and flour to make a roux, then gradually whisk in chicken broth until thickened, seasoning with salt and pepper for perfect homemade gravy.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a party?

You can prep chicken coating, mashed potatoes, and gravy in advance, then fry and assemble the bowls just before serving to keep everything fresh and crispy.

Final Thoughts

Homemade KFC Chicken Bowls with Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food that combines crispy chicken, fluffy mashed potatoes, and savory gravy into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or cozying up for a quiet meal, this recipe is sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves and treat yourself to the joy of this simple yet spectacular homemade delight!

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