These Homemade KFC Bowls have all the layers you love: creamy mashed potatoes, bite-sized chunks of crispy chicken, melty cheddar, and hot gravy stacked together in the ultimate bowl of comfort. If you’re a fan of that staple dish you see on KFC menus across the country, you’re gonna love this easy-to-make version!

DIY Crispy Chicken Potato Bowls

Let’s be real, sometimes you just want comfort food that hits all the right notes. These Homemade KFC Bowls are warm, savory, and SO satisfying, especially after a long day.

I’ve always been a devout believer in the sacred union of mashed potatoes, crispy chicken, cheddar, corn, and gravy… and this dish preaches the gospel. Hallelujah.

I mean, Colonel Sanders himself wouldn’t be able to tell the difference!

No deep fryer or any fancy ingredients, just a few basics from the grocery store, and you’re on your way to a full meal that’s easy to prep and great for the whole fam.

Skip the drive-thru and let’s do this thing!

Ingredients

Chicken breasts
All-purpose flour
Eggs
Breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
Salt & black pepper
Garlic powder
Cooking oil
Mashed potatoes (store-bought or homemade)
Frozen sweet corn
Shredded cheddar cheese
Brown gravy (jar or packet mix)

Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for This Recipe?

Yes! If you’re short on time, using crispy popcorn chicken, chicken tenders, or any type of frozen chicken bites is a great way to speed things up. Just cook them according to the package instructions and assemble as usual.

A heaping spoonful of mashed potatoes, chicken, corn, and gravy.

How to Make the BEST Copycat KFC Bowl

Make the Potatoes

If you’ve got premade potatoes, you can skip this step. If you’re making homemade, you’re welcome to try my Homemade Mashed Potatoes With Evaporated Milk, or use your favorite recipe. And if you’re using instant potatoes, make sure you cook them based on the package instructions.

Tip: Add a splash of whole milk and butter before mashing for extra creaminess. A large bowl makes it easier to get a nice, creamy texture by allowing more room for your hand masher.

Fluffy mashed potatoes in a decorative bowl.

Prep the Chicken Nuggets

After you’ve got your potatoes sorted, set up three shallow bowls:

Bowl 1: Mix flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder
Bowl 2: Add the beaten eggs
Bowl 3: Add the breadcrumbs

Mixing the breading for homemade KFC bowls.

2. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, then dip in the eggs, and coat well in the breadcrumbs. This layering gives you that perfect blend of crunch and flavor!

Cook the Chicken

3. In a skillet over medium heat, add a thin layer of oil and fry chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Tip: Remember to drain your fried chicken on paper towels to keep that crunch!

Heat the Gravy & Corn

4. This should be quick since we are using premade gravy and frozen corn! Heat these up based on the package instructions. If you’re making your own gravy, I recommend preparing this at the same time as the potatoes.

Gravy pouring on homemade KFC bowls with cheese, chicken, and fluffy potatoes.

Assemble & Serve

5. Divide the mashed potatoes into 4 individual servings or a casserole dish if you’re feeding a crowd.

6. Then comes the best part! Layer the top of the mashed potatoes with:

A ladle of hot chicken gravy or home-style gravy
A scoop of sweet corn
A handful of cheddar cheese
Your fresh, hot chicken nuggets
Optional: Drizzle with extra brown gravy. Microwave the whole thing for 30 seconds to melt the shredded cheese.

Enjoy!!

Storage

This easy meal is even better the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.