If you are craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings all the rich flavors of your favorite fast-food meal right to your kitchen table, then look no further than this sensational KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe. This casserole turns classic components like crispy chicken tenders, creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, melty cheese, and savory gravy into one cozy, hearty bake that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Whether for a family dinner or a potluck, this recipe blends simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that is easy to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe is delightfully simple. Each ingredient is essential to creating layers of texture and flavor that come together beautifully in the finished dish. From the creamy mashed potatoes to the crispy chicken tenders, every element plays a key role in making this casserole a true taste sensation.
- 8 ounces instant mashed potatoes: Use instant for convenience or leftover mashed potatoes for added creaminess and less waste.
- 16 ounces frozen corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color that brightens every bite.
- 24 ounces frozen chicken tenders or nuggets: Provides the crispy, protein-packed base that makes this dish so satisfying.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend): Melts into a gooey topping that brings richness and depth.
- 1 cup gravy (premade or homemade): Pours over the layers to keep everything moist and infuse savory goodness.
How to Make KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Mashed Potatoes
Begin by making the mashed potatoes according to the package instructions if using instant mashed potatoes, or warm up leftover mashed potatoes to make sure they’re smooth and creamy. This step is critical because the mashed potatoes form the base layer that anchors the entire casserole.
Step 2: Cook Chicken Tenders
Next, cook the frozen chicken tenders or nuggets following the package directions. You want them nice and crispy on the outside but heated through on the inside to maintain that freshly-fried texture that everyone loves in KFC-style dishes.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Take a 9×13 casserole dish and start layering: spread the mashed potatoes evenly on the bottom, sprinkle the frozen corn over the potatoes, arrange the cooked chicken tenders on top of the corn, and then cover the chicken with shredded cheese. Finally, pour the gravy evenly across the entire casserole to tie all the flavors together.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to melt into a bubbly, golden layer with all the ingredients warmed through, creating that irresistible harmony of textures and tastes.
How to Serve KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Once out of the oven, feel free to brighten your casserole with garnishes like chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. A sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or a drizzle of extra gravy can elevate the dish even more and add personalized flair.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans offers a refreshing contrast that balances the richness. For an extra indulgent meal, some buttery dinner rolls are also a fantastic choice to mop up every last bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For serving at big gatherings, consider scooping individual portions into small ovenproof bowls and broiling the cheese for a few minutes to create a golden crust on each serving. You can also layer the ingredients in clear glass dishes for a stunning presentation that shows off the colorful layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy those comforting flavors again without any fuss.
Freezing
This dish handles freezing like a champ. Freeze individual portions or the entire casserole before baking, wrapped tightly to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole or portions with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through and bubbly, usually about 20 minutes. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave, although the oven helps maintain the texture and flavor best.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen tenders?
Absolutely! You can cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs and chop them into bite-sized pieces before layering. Just ensure they are cooked through before assembling to keep the casserole safe and delicious.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep since it stores well and can be portioned easily. Preparing it ahead saves valuable time on busy days while delivering hearty comfort food.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely. Use gluten-free instant mashed potatoes, gravy, and check the chicken tenders for gluten-friendly options. This way, you can enjoy the KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe without compromising dietary needs.
What cheese works best in this casserole?
Cheddar and Mexican cheese blends both work wonderfully because they melt smoothly and offer a balance of sharpness and creaminess that complements the other layers.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Yes! Feel free to mix in cooked peas, diced bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms to add more texture, flavor, and nutrition, making the casserole even more wholesome.
Final Thoughts
This KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe is one of those wonderful dishes that turns everyday ingredients into a memorable meal full of warmth, flavor, and nostalgia. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and sure to win over family and friends alike. I encourage you to dive into your kitchen and try this recipe soon—you’ll quickly see why it has become a personal favorite that feels like home in every bite.
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 is a comforting, layered dish featuring creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, crispy chicken tenders, melted cheese, and savory gravy. Easy to prepare and perfect for a family meal, this casserole combines familiar flavors into a hearty and satisfying oven-baked dish.
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)
Sauces
- 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 to create an even base layer in the casserole dish.
- 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 in this order: spread the mashed potatoes evenly on the bottom, add a layer of frozen corn on top, place the cooked chicken tenders over the corn, sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the chicken, and finally, pour the gravy evenly across the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and gooey and the casserole is heated through evenly.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh or canned corn if frozen is not available; just adjust cooking time if necessary.
- Leftover cooked chicken can be used instead of frozen chicken tenders to reduce prep time.
- Feel free to add seasonings like black pepper, paprika, or garlic powder to enhance the flavor.
- This casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
- Use a non-stick spray or butter on the casserole dish for easier cleaning.
