Ingredients:
- 1 package mashed potatoes (instant or homemade)
- 5-6 Blue & Gold chicken strips (or your preferred brand)
- 1 can whole kernel corn, drained and heated
- 1 package brown gravy mix
- Shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes:
- Prepare the mashed potatoes according to the package instructions. If you’re using instant mashed potatoes, heat water or milk as directed and mix with the potato flakes until smooth.
- Cook Chicken Strips:
- Cook the Blue & Gold chicken strips or your preferred brand according to the package instructions. This may involve baking or frying, depending on the product.
- Heat Whole Kernel Corn:
- Heat the whole kernel corn in a saucepan or microwave until warmed through. Drain any excess liquid.
- Prepare Brown Gravy:
- In a separate saucepan, prepare the brown gravy according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves mixing the gravy mix with water and simmering until it thickens.
- Assemble the Bowls:
- In each lunch container or serving bowl, assemble the “KFC” bowls with layers of the following:
- Start with a generous portion of mashed potatoes at the bottom.
- Place the cooked chicken strips on top of the mashed potatoes.
- Add a layer of heated whole kernel corn.
- Pour the prepared brown gravy over the layers.
- In each lunch container or serving bowl, assemble the “KFC” bowls with layers of the following:
- Optional Cheese Topping:
- Optionally, top each bowl with shredded cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Use your favorite cheese variety or a blend of cheeses.
- Refrigerate and Reheat:
- Seal the lunch containers or cover the bowls and refrigerate. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave until heated through. Ensure the cheese is melted if you added it as a topping.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve your Homemade “KFC” Bowls hot, and enjoy a quick and satisfying lunch that captures the comforting flavors of a classic KFC bowl.
This homemade version allows you to customize the ingredients and enjoy a delicious and convenient lunch throughout the week. Feel free to add your favorite seasonings or additional toppings to suit your taste!
Here are some tips to make your Homemade “KFC” Bowls even more delightful:
- Homemade Mashed Potatoes:
- If time allows, consider making homemade mashed potatoes for an extra creamy and flavorful base. Add butter, cream, or sour cream for richness.
- Seasoning for Mashed Potatoes:
- Season the mashed potatoes with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or your favorite herbs to enhance their flavor.
- Marinate Chicken Strips:
- Marinate the chicken strips in buttermilk or a seasoned mixture before cooking for added tenderness and flavor.
- Homemade Gravy:
- If you have the time, consider making gravy from scratch using pan drippings, broth, and flour. This can elevate the overall flavor of the dish.
- Add Vegetables:
- Enhance the nutritional content by adding sautéed vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans to the corn layer for extra color and texture.
- Spice Up the Gravy:
- Customize the brown gravy by adding a pinch of your favorite spices or herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.
- Cheese Variety:
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for the topping. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses can add complexity to the dish.
- Fresh Herbs:
- Garnish the bowls with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives just before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Crispy Onion Topping:
- Add a layer of crispy fried onions on top for a delightful crunch and an additional layer of flavor.
- Sour Cream Drizzle:
- Drizzle a small amount of sour cream on top of the bowls before serving for a cool and tangy contrast.
- Customized Spice Blend:
- Create a custom spice blend for the chicken strips, incorporating your favorite seasonings to match your taste preferences.
- Serve with Hot Sauce or Gravy on the Side:
- Serve the bowls with a side of hot sauce or extra gravy for those who prefer their meal a bit saucier.
- Bake for a Crispy Top:
- If you enjoy a bit of crispiness on top, transfer the assembled bowls to the oven for a few minutes to let the cheese melt and develop a golden crust.
- Presentation:
- Pay attention to the presentation. A well-arranged bowl can enhance the dining experience, even for a simple and comforting dish.
Feel free to mix and match these tips based on your preferences to create the perfect Homemade “KFC” Bowls that suit your taste buds. Enjoy your delightful meal!
achieving the perfect Homemade “KFC” Bowls involves a combination of techniques and attention to detail. Here are some secrets to make your recipe outstanding:
- Perfectly Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
- Use real butter, cream, or milk in your mashed potatoes for a rich and creamy texture. Add garlic, chives, or sour cream for extra flavor.
- Marinate Chicken Strips:
- Marinate the chicken strips in buttermilk with a pinch of salt and pepper for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This enhances tenderness and flavor.
- Season Every Layer:
- Season each layer individually. Season the mashed potatoes, the chicken strips, the corn, and the gravy to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Crispy Chicken Strips:
- For extra crispy chicken strips, coat them in a seasoned flour or breadcrumbs mixture before cooking. Bake or fry until golden brown and crunchy.
- Homemade Gravy Magic:
- Enhance the flavor of your gravy by using pan drippings from the chicken, adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire for depth, or incorporating a pinch of poultry seasoning.
- Layering Technique:
- Assemble the bowls with thoughtfulness. Start with a generous layer of mashed potatoes, then add the chicken strips, corn, and finally, pour the gravy evenly over the top.
- Melty Cheese:
- If using shredded cheese, sprinkle it on top of the hot gravy to allow it to melt beautifully. Consider using a mix of different cheeses for added complexity.
- Fresh Herbs Finishing Touch:
- Just before serving, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
- Textures for Interest:
- Introduce additional textures for interest. Consider adding crispy fried onions, toasted breadcrumbs, or crushed potato chips as a topping.
- Pickled Jalapeños or Peppers:
- Add a kick to your bowls by topping them with pickled jalapeños or banana peppers. The tangy and spicy flavor complements the richness of the dish.
- Drizzle of Hot Sauce:
- Offer hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a bit of heat. It adds a customizable element to the dish.
- Preheat Bowls for Warmth:
- Preheat the serving bowls before assembling the dish to keep the components warm as you layer them.
- Serve with Lemon Wedges:
- Provide lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavors and cut through the richness.
- Rest Before Serving:
- Allow the assembled bowls to rest for a minute before serving. This helps the flavors meld and ensures each ingredient maintains its integrity.
Remember, the key is to personalize the dish to your taste preferences, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and techniques until you find the perfect combination for your Homemade “KFC” Bowls. Enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!
Popular Questions and Answers:
Here are some potential questions and answers that might arise regarding the Easy Homemade “KFC” Bowls Recipe :
Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes for Homemade “KFC” Bowls? A: Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes for convenience. Follow the package instructions to prepare them, and consider adding butter, cream, or sour cream for extra richness.
Q: Can I make Homemade “KFC” Bowls ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the bowls ahead of time and refrigerate them. However, it’s recommended to add the cheese and fresh herbs just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Q: Can I use a different protein instead of chicken strips? A: Certainly! You can use grilled or roasted chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even breaded and fried chicken tenders as an alternative to chicken strips.
Q: How do I make the mashed potatoes smoother? A: For smoother mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer or a hand mixer to eliminate lumps. Additionally, incorporating warm milk or cream gradually while mashing can result in a smoother texture.
Q: Can I freeze Homemade “KFC” Bowls? A: It’s not recommended to freeze Homemade “KFC” Bowls, as freezing may affect the texture of the mashed potatoes and the overall quality of the dish.
Q: What can I substitute for corn in the recipe? A: You can substitute the corn with other vegetables like peas, green beans, or a mix of vegetables for variety.
Q: How can I make the gravy thicker? A: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can mix a little cornstarch or flour with water and whisk it into the gravy while simmering until it reaches the desired consistency.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese for topping? A: Absolutely! Experiment with different cheeses such as shredded sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend for added flavor. Customize the cheese to suit your taste.
Q: How do I reheat Homemade “KFC” Bowls? A: Reheat the bowls in the microwave or oven until hot. If the bowls were refrigerated, you may need to add a splash of broth or water to the mashed potatoes to maintain their creaminess.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian? A: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with grilled or sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a plant-based protein alternative. Use vegetable broth for the gravy.
Q: What sides can I serve with Homemade “KFC” Bowls? A: Common sides include a side salad, coleslaw, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve the bowls with a side of garlic bread or dinner rolls for a complete meal.
