KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe
If you are craving that iconic comfort and crunch of KFC but want it in a warm, hearty, and easy-to-make casserole, you have to try this absolutely delicious KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe. It takes the best parts of a KFC bowl—the creamy mashed potatoes, crispy chicken tenders, sweet corn, melty cheese, and savory gravy—and layers them into a baked dish that’s ridiculously satisfying and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping. Get ready for a cozy dinner that tastes just like your favorite fast food but with the homemade love you deserve!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but work together beautifully to create that perfect balance of creamy, crispy, cheesy, and savory flavors you expect from a KFC-inspired dish. Each one is essential to achieving the texture and taste that make this casserole so comforting and crowd-pleasing.
- 8 ounces instant mashed potatoes: Use instant for speed or leftover homemade mashed potatoes for extra creaminess.
- 16 ounces frozen corn: Adds subtle sweetness and a pop of bright color to the dish.
- 24 ounces frozen chicken tenders or nuggets: Crispy chicken is the star protein, bringing texture and flavor.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend): Melts perfectly for that gooey, cheesy topping everyone loves.
- 1 cup gravy (premade or homemade): Provides rich, savory moisture to tie all the layers together.
How to Make KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Mashed Potatoes
Start by making the mashed potatoes according to package instructions if you’re using instant, or simply reheat your leftover mashed potatoes until smooth and creamy. This base is the foundation of the casserole, so you want it silky and lump-free to blend wonderfully with the other layers.
Step 2: Cook Chicken Tenders
Next, follow the package directions to cook your frozen chicken tenders or nuggets. Whether you bake them in the oven or air fry for extra crispiness, ensure they are fully heated and have that golden crunchy coating. This texture contrast is key to mimicking the KFC experience.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Grab a 9×13 casserole dish and layer your ingredients thoughtfully: spread the smooth mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom, then scatter the frozen corn on top. Follow this by arranging the cooked chicken tenders evenly to cover the corn, sprinkle shredded cheese generously over everything, and finally drizzle the gravy across the dish to add richness.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for about 20 minutes. This allows the cheese to become gorgeously melted and gooey while warming everything through so the flavors meld together delightfully. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese bubbles and the edges slightly brown.
How to Serve KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For extra flair and freshness, sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh parsley over the casserole right before serving. A little cracked black pepper or a light drizzle of hot sauce can also boost the flavor, balancing the creamy richness with some zing.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty casserole with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables to lighten the meal and add some fresh crunch. Classic coleslaw works beautifully too, providing a cool, tangy contrast to the warm, cheesy casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to get creative? Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personalized portions, or layer it in clear glass dishes to showcase the colorful layers of potato, corn, chicken, and cheese. This KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe also makes a fantastic potluck dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish reheats well, so you’ll enjoy those comforting layers even after a couple of days.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead or save leftovers for longer, freeze the casserole in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw it completely in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the cheese is restored to melty perfection. Adding a sprinkle of cheese before reheating can revive that fresh-baked look.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen tenders?
Absolutely! Fresh chicken breasts or thighs can be cooked, seasoned, and shredded or cut into pieces before layering in the casserole. Just make sure they are fully cooked and crispy for the best flavor and texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free instant mashed potatoes, gluten-free gravy, and gluten-free breaded chicken tenders to make this dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing any flavor.
Can I swap the corn for another vegetable?
Definitely! Frozen peas, green beans, or even diced bell peppers would work nicely, adding different flavors and colors while keeping that comforting veggie element.
How spicy is this recipe?
This KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe is mild by default, making it perfect for all ages. If you like heat, you can add a dash of cayenne pepper to the gravy or top with hot sauce when serving.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, by choosing dairy-free mashed potatoes, cheese alternatives, and gravy, you can enjoy this casserole without dairy. There are many great plant-based cheeses that melt well to keep the gooey texture intact.
Final Thoughts
This KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe is pure comfort food magic, taking all the best parts of a KFC bowl and turning them into a warm, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry crowd. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with familiar flavors that feel like a big, delicious hug. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy that irresistible KFC taste at home!
Print
KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe is a delicious, comforting dish that layers creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, crispy chicken tenders, melted cheese, and savory gravy. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole combines easy-to-prepare ingredients baked to perfection for a warm and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 8 ounces instant mashed potatoes (or leftover mashed potatoes, as desired)
Vegetables
- 16 ounces frozen corn
Protein
- 24 ounces frozen chicken tenders or nuggets
Dairy
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Sauce
- 1 cup gravy (premade or homemade, as desired)
Instructions
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes: Make the mashed potatoes according to the package instructions or use leftover mashed potatoes if available. Ensure they are smooth and creamy for an even base in the casserole.
- Cook Chicken Tenders: Bake or cook the chicken tenders or nuggets as per the package directions until they are crispy and heated through.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a 9×13 casserole dish, layer the ingredients in the following order: mashed potatoes on the bottom, followed by frozen corn, then the cooked chicken tenders, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, and finally, pour the gravy evenly across the casserole.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey, and the dish is evenly heated through.
Notes
- Use leftover mashed potatoes to save time and add extra flavor.
- Feel free to substitute the chicken tenders with your preferred cooked chicken pieces.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade gravy or your favorite gravy blend.
- Check the casserole halfway through baking to ensure the cheese is melting evenly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
