If you’re craving that classic KFC flavor but want a comforting, easy-to-make meal at home, the KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish perfectly layers creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, crispy chicken tenders, melty cheese, and savory gravy into one crowd-pleasing casserole that tastes just like the iconic bowl you love, but in an entirely homey and shareable way. It’s a brilliant blend of textures and flavors that come together effortlessly for a meal everyone will ask you to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, straightforward ingredients that you can find in your pantry, freezer, or local grocery store. Each one plays a crucial role in balancing taste, texture, and that soul-satisfying comfort factor.
- 8 ounces instant mashed potatoes: Using instant mashed potatoes saves time and creates a smooth, creamy base; leftover mashed potatoes work beautifully as well.
- 16 ounces frozen corn: Adds a pop of natural sweetness and a subtle crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy potatoes.
- 24 ounces frozen chicken tenders or nuggets: These provide the hearty, crispy protein foundation reminiscent of KFC’s signature chicken.
- 2 cups shredded cheese: Cheddar or a Mexican blend cheeses both melt well, lending gooey indulgence and flavor depth.
- 1 cup gravy: Whether premade or homemade, the gravy ties all the layers together with its rich, savory goodness.
How to Make KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Start by making the mashed potatoes according to the package directions if using instant, or warm up your leftover mashed potatoes. The goal is a creamy, smooth consistency because this layer forms the comforting foundation of your casserole, soaking up flavors from all the other ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Tenders
Next, bake or cook your frozen chicken tenders or nuggets according to the instructions on the package until they’re golden brown and crispy. This step is key because the crispy chicken texture adds that much-needed contrast against the softness of the potatoes and corn.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Grab a 9×13 casserole dish and start layering. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly on the bottom, then sprinkle the frozen corn over them. Add the cooked chicken tenders next, followed by a generous covering of shredded cheese. Finally, pour the gravy evenly across the top. This assembly ensures every bite gets a little bit of all the delicious layers.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and pop the casserole in for about 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melty and bubbling, and the gravy has warmed everything through. This final bake melds all the layers into one irresistible dish.
How to Serve KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh burst of flavor and color, consider chopping some green onions or fresh parsley to sprinkle over the hot casserole. A dash of paprika or black pepper can also provide a mild kick and make the dish look extra inviting on the table.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a meal in itself but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a side of steamed green beans. These lighter sides balance the richness of the casserole and add varied textures and nutrients to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this at a family gathering or potluck, try baking the casserole in individual ramekins for personalized servings. You can also add a crunchy breadcrumb topping for extra texture or layer in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for a veggie boost and eye-pleasing color variance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any uneaten KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making your leftovers taste even better the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed—perfect for busy days when you crave a homemade meal without the prep time.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal, or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. To keep the casserole moist, cover it with foil while reheating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen chicken tenders?
Absolutely! You can cook fresh chicken breasts, thighs, or tenders and cut them into bite-sized pieces before layering. Just be sure to fully cook the chicken before assembling the casserole.
What kind of gravy works best in this recipe?
A classic chicken gravy or even a country-style white gravy complements the flavors beautifully. Store-bought gravy works fine, but homemade gravy adds an extra layer of deliciousness if you have the time.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute dairy-free cheese and use a gluten-free gravy or homemade gravy made with gluten-free flour. Just make sure your mashed potatoes and chicken are also free of any dairy or gluten ingredients as needed.
Is it okay to substitute the mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower?
Mashed cauliflower is a great low-carb substitute and will work well as the base layer, though the texture and flavor profile will be a bit different. It’s a wonderful option if you’re looking to lighten the dish.
How do I make the casserole extra crispy on top?
Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter or additional shredded cheese on top of the casserole before baking. This will give you a crunchy, golden crust that’s irresistible paired with the creamy layers below.
Final Thoughts
This KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—easy to make, wonderfully satisfying, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. If you’re looking for a new family favorite that captures the spirit of a classic comfort food while being totally fuss-free, this casserole is the answer. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your dinner rotation!
Print
KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes, crispy chicken tenders, sweet corn, savory gravy, and melted cheese. Perfect for a family dinner, it recreates the flavors of the popular chicken bowl in a warm, baked casserole form.
Ingredients
Mashed 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 frozen 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: spread the mashed potatoes evenly on the bottom, sprinkle the frozen corn on top, then add the cooked chicken tenders, followed by the shredded cheese over the entire dish, and finish by pouring 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 casserole is heated through evenly.
Notes
- You can substitute leftover mashed potatoes for instant mashed potatoes to reduce prep time.
- Use any cheese blend you prefer; cheddar or Mexican blend provides great flavor.
- For a homemade gravy, use pan drippings or a simple roux-based gravy for richer taste.
- Make sure the chicken is fully cooked and crispy before assembling to maintain texture in the casserole.
- This casserole is best served warm and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
