If you love a comforting dish that combines crispy chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and gooey cheese all in one scoop, then you’re in for a treat with this KFC Bowl Casserole Recipe. This dish captures all the essence of that beloved fast-food favorite but elevates it to cozy casserole perfection, making it an ideal meal for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or anytime you want a big bowl of delicious satisfaction. Easy to make and generously portioned, it’s a fantastic way to bring everyone together around the table with smiles and satisfied appetites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, readily available ingredients is the key to making this KFC Bowl Casserole Recipe so approachable, yet so delicious. Each element plays a crucial role in balancing flavors, textures, and colors, resulting in a dish that’s hearty, creamy, and packed with comforting tastes.
- 1 ½ lb popcorn chicken: Frozen or freshly made, this adds the perfect crispy, savory chicken base that everyone will love.
- 2 envelopes instant mashed potatoes: Convenient and creamy, these form the fluffy, comforting bottom layer.
- 31 oz can whole kernel corn, drained: Adds bursts of sweetness and a nice pop of color throughout the casserole.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to create a rich, gooey, golden topping packed with flavor.
- 12 oz chicken gravy: Pouring warm gravy over the casserole ties everything together with moistness and depth.
How to Make KFC Bowl Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook Chicken and Potatoes
Start by cooking the popcorn chicken according to the package directions to ensure it’s crispy and perfectly cooked through. While the chicken cooks, prepare the instant mashed potatoes following the package instructions for that ideal creamy texture that holds the layers together.
Step 2: Layer Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once your potatoes are ready, spread them evenly across the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. This base layer offers a delightful creaminess that complements the chicken perfectly. Next, evenly layer the drained whole kernel corn on top of the mashed potatoes, adding sweetness and color. Finally, arrange the cooked popcorn chicken in a uniform layer over the corn for that signature hearty crunch.
Step 3: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes. This baking step melds the layers together, allowing all the wonderful flavors to begin blending. The heat also ensures the corn is warmed through and the chicken stays tender yet crisp.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Gravy
After baking, generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Pop it back into the oven for 5 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling. While the cheese melts, heat the chicken gravy on the stovetop or microwave. Once the cheese is perfectly melted, take the casserole out and pour the warm gravy evenly across the entire dish. This final step adds moisture and a rich, savory finish that makes every bite irresistible.
How to Serve KFC Bowl Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple with fresh garnishes like chopped green onions or parsley for a touch of color and mild freshness. A light dusting of cracked black pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce can add an exciting kick if you enjoy a little heat with your comfort food.
Side Dishes
Because the casserole is so filling, light and crisp sides work wonderfully here. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables. Crisp pickles are another fun contrast to the creamy, cheesy casserole layers.
Creative Ways to Present
You can bake this KFC Bowl Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for single servings that look elegant and inviting. Alternatively, serve it family-style from the baking dish for casual dinners. For a fun twist, offer guests toppings like extra cheese, crumbled bacon, or chopped herbs to personalize their bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your feast, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The casserole holds up well and actually benefits from sitting a bit as the flavors continue to mingle.
Freezing
This casserole freezes nicely, making it perfect for meal prep. Freeze it unbaked or baked in a suitable container, then thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating. For best texture, add the cheese and gravy fresh when reheating rather than before freezing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is melted again, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the top crispy and the casserole evenly heated.
FAQs
Can I use homemade mashed potatoes instead of instant?
Absolutely! Homemade mashed potatoes will add even more creaminess and a fresh flavor. Just make sure they are thick enough to hold the layers without becoming watery.
What if I don’t have popcorn chicken? What can I substitute?
You can swap popcorn chicken for cooked and chopped rotisserie chicken or even crispy chicken tenders. Just be sure the chicken pieces are bite-sized and cooked through.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free instant mashed potatoes, a gluten-free gravy, and gluten-free popcorn chicken, this dish can easily be adapted to fit gluten-free diets.
Can I prepare this casserole completely ahead of time?
You can assemble this casserole a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated, then bake just before serving. If you want to prepare it a day earlier, cover tightly to prevent it drying out.
What types of cheese work best in this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is classic, but you can mix it up with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a mild mozzarella for a different melty texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This KFC Bowl Casserole Recipe is truly one of those dishes that brings warmth, comfort, and delicious nostalgia all in one bowl. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving a cozy meal, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and joyful to eat. Give it a try soon and watch it become a new favorite on your dinner rotation!
Print
KFC Bowl Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This KFC Bowl Casserole Recipe recreates the beloved layers of the classic KFC bowl in an easy-to-make casserole form. Combining crispy popcorn chicken, creamy instant mashed potatoes, sweet corn, savory chicken gravy, and melted cheddar cheese, this dish is a comforting and satisfying meal that can be whipped up quickly and baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Chicken and Toppings
- 1 ½ lb popcorn chicken (frozen or freshly made)
- 31 oz can whole kernel corn, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Potatoes
- 2 envelopes instant mashed potatoes (prepared according to package instructions)
Gravy
- 12 oz chicken gravy
Instructions
- Cook Chicken and Potatoes: Cook the popcorn chicken according to the package directions until crispy and heated through. Meanwhile, prepare the instant mashed potatoes following the instructions on the package to a creamy consistency.
- Layer Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly at the bottom of the dish. Then, layer the drained corn evenly over the mashed potatoes. Finally, distribute the cooked popcorn chicken over the corn layer.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the ingredients to heat through.
- Add Cheese and Gravy: After 15 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Finish with Gravy: While the cheese melts, heat the chicken gravy on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot. Once the cheese is melted, remove the casserole from the oven and pour the hot gravy evenly over the top. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting KFC bowl casserole.
Notes
- You can substitute frozen popcorn chicken for homemade fried chicken bites if preferred.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or butter to the mashed potatoes when preparing.
- Feel free to add extra vegetables like peas or green beans to the corn layer for added nutrition.
- If you want a crispier crust, broil the cheese for 1-2 minutes instead of baking it longer.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
