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KFC Famous Bowl (Copycat Recipe) Recipe


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4.4 from 2 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This KFC Famous Bowl copycat recipe recreates the beloved layered dish featuring crispy fried chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, sweet corn, and savory brown gravy. Perfect for a comforting meal at home, the recipe guides you through breading and frying juicy chicken pieces, warming classic sides, and assembling the hearty bowl that combines crunchy, creamy, and cheesy textures in every bite.


Ingredients

Chicken and Coating

  • 12 ounces boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 4 large egg whites
  • 2 cups panko bread crumbs
  • 4 cups vegetable oil or shortening (for frying)

Sides and Toppings

  • 2 cups KFC mashed potatoes, prepared
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (about 4 ounces)
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels, cooked
  • 2 cups KFC brown gravy, prepared


Instructions

  1. Heat Oil: Add 4 cups of vegetable oil or shortening to a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, filling it to at least 2 inches deep. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350°F and shimmers slightly, which indicates it is ready for frying.
  2. Set Up Breading: In three separate shallow bowls, combine the dry and wet components for breading: In the first, mix 1 cup all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. In the second bowl, whisk 4 large egg whites until frothy and slightly foamy. Place 2 cups panko bread crumbs in the third bowl.
  3. Bread Chicken: Coat each piece of chicken first in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip into the egg whites, back into the flour, again into the egg whites, and finally into the panko crumbs. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well and fully covers each chicken piece.
  4. Fry Chicken: Carefully add a few breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil without overcrowding the pot. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes, turning once, until the coating turns deep golden brown and becomes crisp and crunchy. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F and that the juices run clear. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
  5. Warm Components: Heat prepared mashed potatoes (2 cups), cooked corn kernels (1/2 cup), and brown gravy (2 cups) until hot and steaming, ready to assemble.
  6. Build Bowls: Divide the hot mashed potatoes evenly among 4 bowls. Sprinkle each with 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to begin melting from the residual heat of the potatoes.
  7. Add Toppings: Top each bowl with the crispy fried chicken pieces and a generous spoonful of warm corn kernels.
  8. Finish and Serve: Spoon warm brown gravy over each bowl until the cheese fully melts and the layers are coated in rich flavor. Serve immediately while the bowl is hot, creamy, and crisp.

Notes

  • Ensure the oil temperature is maintained at 350°F for optimal frying results and crispy chicken.
  • Do not overcrowd the frying pot; fry chicken in batches to keep oil temperature steady and chicken crisp.
  • You can prepare the mashed potatoes and gravy ahead of time to speed up assembly.
  • Use a food thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature for safety.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American