If you have ever wished to bring the comforting flavors of your favorite fast-food treat into a cozy, homemade dish, then this KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe is just what your kitchen needs. Imagine layers of creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, crispy chicken tenders, gooey melted cheese, and savory gravy all baked to perfection in one warm, satisfying casserole. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy those classic tastes with the homemade touch that makes every bite feel like a big, comforting hug. Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this dish combines ease, deliciousness, and nostalgia in one go.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe is all about simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component adds a crucial element—creamy, smooth mashed potatoes create the base, tender crisp chicken brings protein and texture, sweet corn adds a pop of color and sweetness, rich cheese melts perfectly over the top, and the gravy ties all the flavors together in one luscious bite.
- 8 ounces instant mashed potatoes: Quick and creamy, they provide the smooth base layer for the casserole.
- 16 ounces frozen corn: This adds sweetness and a vibrant golden color to brighten the dish.
- 24 ounces frozen chicken tenders or nuggets: Crispy and flavorful, they are the star protein of this recipe.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend): Melts beautifully, creating that irresistibly gooey topping everyone loves.
- 1 cup gravy: Savory and rich, it brings all the layers together with moistness and depth.
How to Make KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Mashed Potatoes
Start by making your instant mashed potatoes according to the package instructions, or if you have leftover mashed potatoes, those work perfectly too! They should be creamy and smooth to provide a luscious foundation that will soak up all those delicious flavors layered on top.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Tenders
Next, bake or pan-cook the frozen chicken tenders or nuggets following the package directions. You want them cooked through and crispy on the outside to add texture and that satisfying crunch to your casserole experience.
Step 3: Assemble Your Layers
Grab a 9×13 casserole dish and start layering by spreading the mashed potatoes evenly on the bottom. Follow with a generous layer of frozen corn, then arrange the cooked chicken tenders over the corn. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of everything, making sure to cover the surface evenly. Finally, pour the gravy slowly and evenly across the casserole to moisten every layer.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfect
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your assembled casserole inside and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden topping and the entire dish is heated through. This step melds all those tasty layers into a comforting one-dish meal that’s impossible to resist.
How to Serve KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe, consider a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top right after baking. These little pops of green add brightness and a fresh, slightly peppery note that beautifully contrasts the rich casserole.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, a crisp side salad with a zingy vinaigrette or some roasted veggies will add some refreshing textures and flavors to refresh your palate between rich bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions of the casserole in small ramekins or skillets. Add a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream on the side to customize the flavor experience. It’s a great way to make each serving feel special and personalized.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which often happens because this recipe is so good), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep well for 3 to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy that comforting taste again without the fuss.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! Assemble the dish but don’t bake it before freezing. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then pop it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as usual.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F to keep the cheese melty and the chicken crispy. Microwave works too, but the oven is the best choice for maintaining texture and flavor integrity.
FAQs
Can I use homemade mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade mashed potatoes add a lovely, fresh flavor and creaminess that can make the casserole feel even more special. Just be sure they’re smooth and not too chunky for the best layering effect.
What type of gravy works best?
Classic brown gravy is the traditional choice and pairs wonderfully with the chicken and cheese, but you could also try country-style or even a mushroom gravy depending on your flavor preferences.
Can I substitute frozen chicken tenders with fresh chicken?
Yes, fresh cooked chicken works great too. Simply cook and season it to your liking before layering—it’s a great way to customize the dish to your taste or use up leftovers.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! The familiar ingredients and comforting textures make it a kid-friendly dish that almost everyone enjoys, making mealtime easy and fun.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free instant mashed potatoes, chicken tenders, and gravy to ensure the dish is gluten-free and still just as delicious.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that effortlessly blends familiar, beloved flavors into one warm casserole, I can’t recommend trying the KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe enough. It’s simple to make but packed with everything that makes a meal satisfying and memorable. I promise once you try it, it will become a new favorite you reach for time and again!
Print
KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole recipe is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that layers creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, crispy chicken tenders, melted cheese, and savory gravy. Perfect for a family meal, it combines classic flavors in a baked casserole that’s both hearty and satisfying.
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 are great!)
Sauces
- 1 cup gravy (premade or homemade, as desired)
Instructions
- Prepare the mashed potatoes: Make the mashed potatoes according to the package instructions or use leftover mashed potatoes if available. Ensure they are smooth and creamy to provide an even, hearty base for the casserole.
- Cook the chicken tenders or nuggets: Bake or cook the chicken tenders or nuggets as directed on the package until they are crispy and heated through, ensuring a delicious texture in the casserole.
- Assemble the casserole: In a 9×13 casserole dish, layer the ingredients starting with the mashed potatoes on the bottom, then evenly spread the frozen corn over them. Next, place the cooked chicken tenders on top, sprinkle shredded cheese all over, and finally pour the gravy evenly across the entire casserole.
- Bake the casserole: 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, gooey, and the dish is heated through uniformly.
Notes
- You can substitute the chicken tenders with cooked rotisserie chicken for a different texture.
- Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly and save prep time.
- Feel free to use your favorite type of gravy, whether premade or homemade.
- If you like a crispier cheese topping, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
