If you’ve ever craved that iconic combination of crispy chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, savory gravy, sweet corn, and melty cheddar cheese all in one comforting bite, then you’re in for a treat with Crafting a Copycat KFC Famous Bowl Using an Air Fryer Recipe. This delightful homemade version captures every bit of the original’s magic without stepping foot in a fast-food joint. Using an air fryer not only adds a perfect crunch to the chicken but also cuts down on oil and mess, making the entire process more convenient and healthier. Get ready to indulge in a bowl full of layered goodness that hits all the right flavor notes and textures you love!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity, yet each ingredient plays a crucial role in building those layers of flavor and texture. From the tender chicken to the creamy mashed potatoes, every component comes together like a deliciously orchestrated symphony. Here’s what you’ll gather for your copycat Famous Bowl.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Your protein-packed star that crisps up beautifully in the air fryer.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the breading stick for that irresistible crunch.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Acts as the perfect glue between the flour and breadcrumbs.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Gives the chicken its crunchy exterior with a lovely golden color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best flavors.
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought): Creamy and comforting base that balances the dish.
- 1 cup corn kernels, cooked: Adds subtle sweetness and a pop of color to your bowl.
- 1 cup chicken gravy (homemade or store-bought): The rich, savory sauce that ties all the layers together.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over everything for that extra gooey, cheesy finish.
How to Make Crafting a Copycat KFC Famous Bowl Using an Air Fryer Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bread the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, giving them a simple but essential flavor boost. Then dredge each piece first in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, and coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. This triple step ensures that the chicken will get that perfect crispy crust once air fried, mimicking the delicious crunch you love from KFC.
Step 2: Air Fry the Chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for golden results. Place the breaded chicken breasts gently into the basket and cook them for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through so they cook evenly and reach that irresistibly crispy, golden brown exterior. Check for doneness to ensure the chicken is cooked through and juicy inside.
Step 3: Layer Your Bowl
Grab your serving bowls and start layering: first spread a generous helping of mashed potatoes as the base. Next, scatter the cooked corn kernels on top to add some sweetness and texture. Slice your crispy chicken breasts and layer them neatly over the corn, setting the stage for the gravy and cheese.
Step 4: Add Gravy and Cheese, Then Finish Cooking
Pour the warm chicken gravy over the assembled layers, ensuring each bite will be richly flavored. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. Pop the bowls back into the air fryer basket for about 5 minutes, just enough time to let the cheese melt into a bubbly, gooey topping that pulls everything together beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, carefully remove the bowls from the air fryer. Your Copycat KFC Famous Bowl is ready to be devoured! Serve it hot and dig into a comforting mix of crispy chicken, smooth mashed potatoes, sweet corn, savory gravy, and creamy cheese—all lovingly prepared at home with your air fryer.
How to Serve Crafting a Copycat KFC Famous Bowl Using an Air Fryer Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can elevate your bowl from delicious to restaurant-quality. Consider sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and subtle freshness. A dash of paprika or black pepper can add a visually appealing touch and a hint of warmth. These small additions brighten the dish and enhance both flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
While the bowl itself is a hearty meal, pairing it with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables can provide balance and freshness. A side of pickles or coleslaw adds tang and crunch that works beautifully alongside the creamy and rich main dish. Light bread rolls or garlic bread can complement the meal nicely if you’re in the mood for something more.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, serve in clear glass or ceramic bowls so the beautiful layers show through. You might also prepare mini versions in individual ramekins for a fun party platter. For an extra touch, drizzle a little extra gravy over the top just before serving and sprinkle a bit more cheddar right on the cheese melt—because who says you cannot have double cheese?
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Famous Bowl components can be stored separately for best freshness. Keep chicken, mashed potatoes, corn, and gravy in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When refrigerated separately, the textures stay closer to freshly made and reheat better without becoming soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken, mashed potatoes, and corn individually, but gravy and cheese toppings don’t freeze as well. Store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results.
Reheating
The air fryer is perfect for reheating the chicken to regain that crisp exterior—just 5 to 8 minutes at 350°F (175°C) should do it. Warm mashed potatoes and corn gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying out. Assemble your bowl fresh or reheat the fully assembled bowl briefly in the air fryer to melt cheese again and bring the flavors back to life.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken before breading and air frying. This ensures even cooking and a crispy coating without any sogginess.
Is it necessary to use an air fryer, or can I bake this instead?
You can bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway, though the air fryer provides a faster and crispier finish.
Can I make the gravy from scratch for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade gravy adds a nice personalized touch. Use chicken drippings, broth, flour, and seasoning to create a rich, flavorful gravy that complements the bowl perfectly.
What cheese works best besides cheddar?
Sharp cheddar is traditional, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. Each cheese will bring its own flavor dimension.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Try substituting the chicken with crispy air-fried cauliflower or breaded tofu and use vegetable gravy instead of chicken gravy. This keeps the comforting nature of the dish while accommodating a vegetarian diet.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about Crafting a Copycat KFC Famous Bowl Using an Air Fryer Recipe right in your own kitchen without all the fast-food fuss. Every layer offers a blend of textures and flavors that come together to re-create a beloved comfort dish with ease and heart. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again, whether for a cozy dinner or to impress friends and family. So go ahead, fire up your air fryer and dig into this homemade classic that feels like a warm hug in a bowl!
Print
Crafting a Copycat KFC Famous Bowl Using an Air Fryer Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Copycat KFC Famous Bowl recipe recreates the classic comfort food favorite using an air fryer for a healthier twist. It features crispy breaded chicken breasts layered over creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, rich chicken gravy, and melted cheddar cheese, delivering the iconic flavors and textures of the original in just under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Breading
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Assembly
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup corn kernels, cooked
- 1 cup chicken gravy (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper. Dredge each breast in all-purpose flour to coat, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally cover thoroughly with breadcrumbs to create a crispy crust.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the breaded chicken breasts in the air fryer basket ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, flipping them halfway through for even crispiness.
- Assemble the Bowl: In serving bowls, start by layering 2 cups of mashed potatoes, followed by 1 cup of cooked corn kernels. Slice the cooked chicken breasts and place them on top of the corn layer.
- Add Gravy and Cheese: Pour 1 cup of warm chicken gravy evenly over the chicken and potato layers. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top to prepare for melting.
- Final Melting Step: Place the assembled bowls back into the air fryer basket carefully. Cook for an additional 5 minutes at 375°F to melt the cheese until it is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Serve: Carefully remove the bowls from the air fryer and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious homemade Copycat KFC Famous Bowl.
Notes
- You can use store-bought mashed potatoes and chicken gravy for convenience or make them from scratch for a richer flavor.
- Make sure to flip the chicken halfway during air frying to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- If your air fryer basket is small, consider cooking the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- For added spice, season the flour or breadcrumbs with paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper.
- This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner that combines crispy fried chicken flavors with comforting sides without deep frying.
