If you’re craving a hearty, all-in-one comfort meal that delivers that fast-food magic straight to your kitchen, the KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe is about to be your new weeknight favorite! This layered bake combines creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bites of popcorn chicken, sweet corn, savory brown gravy, and a bubbling blanket of cheddar cheese for a totally satisfying family dinner. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just need a cozy dish to brighten up a busy weekday, this casserole captures all the beloved flavors of a KFC bowl in a warm, shareable pan.

Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of familiar pantry staples can create such bold flavors in this KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe. Each ingredient plays its part, working together for irresistible texture, comforting warmth, and melt-in-your-mouth goodness—making this dish seriously hard to resist!
- Mashed potatoes (3 cups): The creamy, buttery base soaks up the flavors above and brings that classic comfort-food vibe.
- Cooked popcorn chicken (2 cups): Crunchy and tender, these bites give the casserole its signature “KFC” personality; use store-bought for ultimate ease or homemade for a personal touch.
- Corn kernels (1½ cups; frozen or canned, drained): Adds a satisfying sweetness and bright color to every spoonful.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1½ cups): Melts to gooey perfection, binding everything together and delivering cheesy richness.
- Brown gravy (1½ cups, prepared): Poured on top, it ties all the layers together with deep, savory flavor—use your favorite brand or homemade.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Dabbed over the potatoes for richness and that extra “mmm” factor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing flavors; season as you go!
- Optional chopped parsley, for garnish: A fresh pop of color and subtle herbal finish if you want to dress things up.
How to Make KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F so it’s good and hot for baking. Grab a 9×9-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with a bit of butter or nonstick spray—this keeps cleanup easy and ensures your brownies, er, I mean casserole, lifts out perfectly every time.
Step 2: Layer the Mashed Potatoes
Spoon the mashed potatoes into the bottom of your dish and spread them into an even layer. Dot with the tablespoon of butter, then sprinkle on a dash of salt and pepper for flavor. The potatoes set the stage for all the goodness to follow, creating a soft, fluffy foundation.
Step 3: Add the Corn
Evenly sprinkle the corn kernels straight on top of the potatoes. This layer introduces a slightly sweet flavor and juicy bites that balance the savory richness beautifully. Make sure the corn is thawed if frozen, or well-drained if canned, to avoid extra moisture.
Step 4: Top with Popcorn Chicken
Scatter the cooked popcorn chicken over the corn layer. If you love extra crunch, try to maximize the amount sitting right on top! This layer transforms the casserole from a side dish into a hearty main event with every spoonful offering a piece of crispy chicken.
Step 5: Pour on the Gravy
Take your prepared brown gravy and pour it evenly over the chicken. The hot gravy seeps into the layers below, infusing every nook and cranny with deep, savory flavor. Make sure you don’t skimp—gravy is what makes this classic KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe so crave-worthy.
Step 6: Cheese, Please!
Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over everything. This is the “secret weapon” that brings all the layers together as it melts and bubbles in the oven.
Step 7: Bake It Up
Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is totally melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden at the edges. Let the casserole sit for a few minutes when it comes out—those layers need time to settle (and nobody wants a burned tongue!).
How to Serve KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe

Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle your hot casserole with chopped parsley. Not only does this add pretty pops of color, but it also lends a hint of freshness that brightens up the gooey, savory layers underneath. If you like extra flavor and crunch, a dash of crispy fried onions or bacon bits over the top is an irresistible upgrade!
Side Dishes
This dish is a one-pan wonder, but you can round out the meal with a crisp green salad, simple steamed veggies, or some fresh-baked biscuits. The lightness and crunch of greens contrast perfectly with the rich casserole, while warm bread is ideal for sopping up all that melted cheese and savory gravy.
Creative Ways to Present
You can portion your KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe into individual ramekins for dinner parties or impress the kids by serving it in fast-food style bowls. Drizzle with extra gravy tableside, or offer a “toppings bar” with things like jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or a swirl of ranch dressing for fun, build-your-own excitement.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully! Cool the casserole to room temperature, cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container, and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld and deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch even tastier.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the cooled casserole well with plastic wrap and foil, or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before baking, then add cheese just before reheating to avoid a rubbery texture.
Reheating
Reheat single servings in the microwave until heated through, or rewarm larger portions in a covered baking dish at 350°F until hot and bubbly—usually about 15-20 minutes. If the top looks dry, add a splash of extra gravy before reheating for that fresh-baked richness.
FAQs
Can I make this KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free popcorn chicken and ensure your brown gravy is prepared with gluten-free ingredients. Swap in mashed potatoes made without flour or additives, and you’re ready to enjoy!
What’s the best type Main Course
You can use homemade mashed potatoes for extra flavor, instant for convenience, or even leftover mashed potatoes from a previous meal. Just make sure they’re smooth and seasoned to taste—this sets the tone for the whole casserole.
Can I add extra veggies to the casserole?
Definitely! For more color and nutrition, feel free to add sautéed bell peppers, green beans, or even peas along with the corn. Just avoid watery veggies like zucchini so the casserole doesn’t get soggy.
Is this KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe kid-friendly?
This recipe is famously loved by all ages, especially kids! The layered approach, melty cheese, and crispy chicken bites turn familiar ingredients into a fun, approachable dinner the whole family will request again and again.
Can I assemble this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prep the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day. Add the cheese just before baking for best texture, and simply extend baking time by about 5-10 minutes to ensure everything is hot and delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something seriously comforting about a meal that’s easy to assemble, warms your kitchen, and brings big smiles to the table—and this KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe does all that and then some. If you’ve been searching for a stress-free way to get that signature crave-worthy flavor at home, give this recipe a try—I promise it’s a winner every single time!
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KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This KFC Chicken Bowl Casserole recipe is a delicious twist on the classic KFC bowl, combining mashed potatoes, popcorn chicken, corn, gravy, and cheese into a comforting casserole dish. Perfect for an easy, family-friendly dinner.
Ingredients
Mashed Potatoes:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Popcorn Chicken:
- 2 cups cooked popcorn chicken (store-bought or homemade)
Corn Layer:
- 1½ cups corn kernels (frozen or canned, drained)
Cheese Layer:
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Gravy Layer:
- 1½ cups brown gravy (prepared)
- Optional chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the base: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly in the bottom of the dish. Season with salt, pepper, and butter.
- Layer the ingredients: Add the corn over the mashed potatoes, followed by the cooked popcorn chicken. Pour the brown gravy evenly over the chicken.
- Add the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, let it sit for a few minutes, and garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can use instant mashed potatoes or leftovers for convenience.
- Enhance the flavor with sautéed onions or bacon bits.
- Substitute mozzarella or a cheese blend based on preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 1220 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg