If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the comforting flavors of your favorite fast-food favorite in a warm, homemade casserole, you’re in for a treat. The KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe takes all those beloved elements—crispy chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, melty cheese, and savory gravy—and transforms them into one irresistible dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for feeding a family or bringing to a potluck, combining ease, taste, and nostalgia all in one cozy bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture that feel both hearty and satisfying. Each item is essential for building that perfect balance of creamy, crispy, savory, and cheesy goodness you’re craving.
- Instant mashed potatoes (8 ounces): Quick and fluffy, or use leftover mashed potatoes for added creaminess and flavor depth.
- Frozen corn (16 ounces): Adds a natural sweetness and a pop of vibrant color to the casserole’s middle layer.
- Frozen chicken tenders or nuggets (24 ounces): The crispy star of the dish, bringing that beloved KFC-style crunch and tender chicken flavor.
- Shredded cheese, 2 cups: Choose cheddar or a Mexican blend to melt into gooey, savory goodness on top.
- Gravy, 1 cup: The perfect finishing touch to moisten the casserole and add rich, savory depth.
How to Make KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Start by preparing your mashed potatoes according to package instructions or by warming up any leftover mashed potatoes you have hanging out in the fridge. The key is to make them smooth and creamy so they form the perfect base layer for the rest of the casserole’s flavors.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Tenders
Next, pop those frozen chicken tenders or nuggets in the oven and bake them until they’re crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside. This step is essential to getting that satisfying crunch and a taste reminiscent of classic KFC chicken.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Grab a 9×13 casserole dish and carefully layer your ingredients: spread the mashed potatoes evenly on the bottom, add the frozen corn as the next layer, then arrange the crispy chicken tenders on top of the corn. Sprinkle your shredded cheese generously over it all, then pour the gravy evenly across the casserole for that perfect saucy finish.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your assembled casserole inside and bake for approximately 20 minutes. You want the cheese melted and bubbly, and the entire dish heated through so the flavors meld beautifully into that classic KFC Chicken Bowl vibe.
How to Serve KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh twist, sprinkle some chopped green onions or fresh parsley on top right before serving. A little cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of paprika can also add a pop of color and mild spice, elevating the dish’s look and flavor effortlessly.
Side Dishes
Though this casserole is hearty enough on its own, pairing it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables can add a refreshing balance. A crisp coleslaw or even some garlic bread can be perfect companions for soaking up any extra gravy left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving individual portions in small ramekins for a charming presentation at dinner parties, or layer it in clear glass dishes so the beautiful layers shine through. You could also top each serving with a drizzle of hot sauce for those who like a little heat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cover tightly to keep the cheese from drying out and the flavors fresh.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap before placing in the freezer. It will stay good for up to 2 months, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight if frozen. Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly again. You can also microwave individual servings on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use homemade mashed potatoes instead of instant?
Absolutely! Homemade mashed potatoes work wonderfully in this recipe and can add a creamier, richer flavor if you prefer. Just make sure they’re well mashed and fairly smooth before layering.
Is it okay to use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh corn kernels can be used and will even make the dish taste fresher during the warmer seasons. Just lightly cook or blanch the corn before layering to ensure it’s tender.
Can I substitute the chicken tenders with grilled or rotisserie chicken?
You certainly can. Using shredded rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken pieces will still provide great flavor. Just skip the baking step for the chicken, as it’s already cooked, and adjust baking time accordingly.
What type of gravy works best for this casserole?
Classic country-style or poultry gravy pairs perfectly here, but feel free to experiment with mushroom gravy or even a white gravy if you like. Homemade or premade gravies both work well.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly and when ready, bake it covered at 350°F (175°C) for a longer time—around 45 minutes to an hour—to ensure it heats through completely.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with the KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and comfort, bringing together all the flavors you love from a classic chicken bowl in an easy-to-make, family-friendly meal. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight winner or a dish to impress guests with minimal fuss, this casserole delivers on every level. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become one of your favorite go-to recipes!
Print
KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe is a comforting, layered dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, crispy chicken tenders, melted cheese, and savory gravy. It’s an easy-to-make meal perfect for family dinners, offering a delicious twist on a classic chicken bowl in a baked casserole format.
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!)
Sauce
- 1 cup gravy (premade or homemade, as desired)
Instructions
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes: Make the mashed potatoes following package instructions or use leftover mashed potatoes. Ensure the potatoes are creamy and smooth to create an even base for the casserole.
- Cook Chicken Tenders: Bake or cook the frozen chicken tenders or nuggets according to the package directions until they are crispy and thoroughly heated.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a 9×13 inch casserole dish, layer the ingredients starting with the mashed potatoes at the bottom, followed by the frozen corn, then the cooked chicken tenders. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top and pour the gravy evenly across the casserole.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, gooey, and the casserole is heated through evenly.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly prepared or well-reheated mashed potatoes for a creamy texture.
- Feel free to substitute frozen corn with fresh or canned corn if preferred.
- You can use any shredded cheese blend that melts well, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
- If homemade gravy is not available, premade gravy packets or jars work perfectly.
- This casserole can be customized by adding vegetables like peas or green beans for more variety.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.
