Ingredients
Creating the iconic KFC Famous Bowl requires a combination of delicious ingredients that bring together flavors and textures in a harmonious way. Here is a list of the key components you will need to make your own mouthwatering Famous Bowl:
- Chicken: Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenders. You will need about 2 pounds of chicken for this recipe.
- Mashed Potatoes: Prepare about 4 cups of mashed potatoes. You can use instant mashed potatoes for a quick and easy option.
- Gravy: A rich and flavorful gravy is essential for the Famous Bowl. Prepare about 2 cups of your favorite gravy. You can use store-bought gravy or make it from scratch.
- Corn: Add a layer of sweetness with about 1 cup of corn kernels. You can use canned corn or frozen corn that has been thawed.
- Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle about 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the bowl. It will melt and add a delightful gooeyness.
- Bacon: Crumble 6 strips of cooked bacon into small pieces to add a smoky and savory flavor to the dish.
- Green Onions: Finely chop 2-3 green onions to garnish the Famous Bowl with a fresh and vibrant touch.
These ingredients come together to create a delicious and satisfying KFC Famous Bowl that will leave your taste buds craving for more. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, succulent chicken, savory gravy, sweet corn, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions is a true indulgence.
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step process of making the KFC Famous Bowl from scratch. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible comfort food!
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Before assembling the KFC Famous Bowl, it’s crucial to prepare the chicken to perfection. Follow these steps to ensure tender and flavorful chicken:
1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts or tenders with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. You can use a combination of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder for a delicious flavor profile.
2. Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Once the oil is hot, place the seasoned chicken in the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
3. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicy and tender chicken.
4. After the chicken has rested, dice it into bite-sized pieces. This will make it easier to assemble the Famous Bowl later on.
By following these steps, you will have perfectly cooked and seasoned chicken for your KFC Famous Bowl. The flavorful and tender chicken will be the foundation of this delicious dish.
Now that the chicken is ready, it’s time to move on to the next step: making the creamy mashed potatoes. Get your potato masher ready and let’s continue the journey to creating our own version of the iconic Famous Bowl.
Step 2: Making the Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a quintessential component of the KFC Famous Bowl. They provide a creamy and comforting base for all the other delicious ingredients. Follow these steps to make velvety smooth mashed potatoes:
1. Start by peeling and chopping about 4 large potatoes. Russet potatoes work best for mashed potatoes because of their high starch content, which results in a fluffy texture.
2. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and fill it with enough water to cover the potatoes. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water to enhance the flavor.
3. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and return them to the pot. This step helps remove excess moisture from the potatoes, resulting in a creamier texture.
5. Next, add 1/4 cup of butter and 1/2 cup of milk to the pot with the potatoes. You can also add salt and pepper to taste. Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency. Some prefer smooth and creamy mashed potatoes, while others like them slightly chunky.
6. Give the mashed potatoes a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can add a splash of heavy cream or sour cream.
By following these steps, you will have a delicious batch of homemade mashed potatoes that will serve as the foundation for your KFC Famous Bowl. The creamy and buttery texture of the mashed potatoes will complement the other flavors in the dish.
With the mashed potatoes ready, it’s time to move on to the next step: preparing the savory gravy. Get your taste buds ready for another layer of deliciousness!
Step 3: Preparing the Gravy
No KFC Famous Bowl is complete without a luscious and savory gravy. Follow these simple steps to make a delicious homemade gravy:
1. Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for a minute or two until it turns golden brown, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning.
2. Slowly pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. You can use store-bought chicken broth or make your own by simmering chicken bones and vegetables in water.
3. Continue whisking the mixture until it thickens and comes to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for a few minutes until the gravy reaches your desired consistency. If the gravy becomes too thick, you can add more chicken broth to thin it out.
4. Season the gravy with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you prefer. Common herbs and spices used in gravy include thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder. Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
5. If you want a richer and creamier gravy, you can add a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end and whisk it in until well incorporated.
By following these steps, you will have a flavorful and velvety gravy that will elevate your KFC Famous Bowl to the next level. The savory and aromatic gravy will bring all the ingredients together, delivering a satisfying and indulgent experience.
With the gravy prepared, it’s time to move on to the next step: assembling the bowl. Get ready to create a masterpiece of flavors and textures!
Step 4: Assembling the Bowl
Now that you have prepared all the individual components of the KFC Famous Bowl, it’s time to bring them together and assemble the ultimate comfort food dish. Follow these steps to create a bowl that will satisfy your cravings:
1. Grab a deep bowl or plate to assemble your KFC Famous Bowl. This will allow you to stack the ingredients without any spillage.
2. Start by adding a generous scoop of the creamy mashed potatoes to the bottom of the bowl. Spread it evenly to create a base for the rest of the ingredients.
3. Next, layer the diced cooked chicken on top of the mashed potatoes. Make sure the chicken is distributed evenly to provide a satisfying bite in each spoonful.
4. Drizzle the prepared gravy over the chicken and mashed potatoes. The gravy will seep into every nook and cranny, adding a rich and savory element to the dish.
5. Scatter the corn kernels over the bowl, ensuring they are evenly dispersed. The sweet and crisp corn will add a pop of freshness and an element of texture.
6. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the bowl, allowing it to melt and create a gooey and comforting layer.
7. Crumble the cooked bacon and sprinkle it over the top. The crispy and smoky bacon will provide a burst of flavor and a delightful crunch.
8. Finally, garnish the KFC Famous Bowl with finely chopped green onions. The fresh and vibrant green onions will add a beautiful pop of color and a touch of freshness.
By following these steps, you will have assembled a visually stunning and flavor-packed KFC Famous Bowl. The layers of creamy mashed potatoes, tender chicken, savory gravy, sweet corn, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions will come together to create a taste sensation.
With the bowl assembled, the final step is to reheat and serve the dish while it’s still warm and delicious. Get ready to dive into a bowl of comfort and indulgence!
Step 5: Adding the Toppings
The KFC Famous Bowl isn’t complete without its mouthwatering toppings. These extra ingredients add an extra layer of flavor, texture, and visual appeal to the dish. Follow these steps to take your Famous Bowl to the next level:
1. Squeeze a generous amount of sour cream over the top of the assembled bowl. The creamy and tangy flavor of sour cream complements the other ingredients perfectly.
2. Sprinkle a handful of chopped tomatoes over the bowl. The juicy and fresh tomatoes add a burst of color and a refreshing element.
3. Add a handful of sliced black olives for a burst of brininess and an additional layer of flavor. The olives provide a unique twist to the overall taste profile of the dish.
4. Chop up some fresh cilantro or parsley and sprinkle it over the toppings. The vibrant herbs will lend a burst of freshness and enhance the visual appeal of the bowl.
5. For a touch of heat and complexity, add a few slices of jalapeno peppers. Be cautious with the amount, as jalapenos can be quite spicy. Adjust according to your personal preference.
6. Finally, finish off by cracking some black pepper over the bowl. The freshly ground pepper adds a subtle kick and enhances the overall flavor profile.
By following these steps and adding the suggested toppings, you will elevate your KFC Famous Bowl to new heights. The combination of sour cream, tomatoes, black olives, cilantro (or parsley), jalapenos, and black pepper adds a delightful array of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
With the toppings added, your KFC Famous Bowl is now complete! The only thing left to do is to reheat the assembled bowl and serve it while it’s still warm and packed with all the delicious flavors you’ve created.
Now it’s time to enjoy your homemade version of the iconic KFC Famous Bowl. Grab a spoon, dig in, and savor the delectable combination of ingredients and flavors.
Step 6: Reheating and Serving
After assembling your KFC Famous Bowl and adding the toppings, the final step is to reheat it and serve it to enjoy its full flavor. Follow these simple steps to make sure your bowl is heated through and ready to be devoured:
1. Place the assembled bowl in the microwave and heat it on high for about 2-3 minutes, or until it’s heated all the way through. Microwave times may vary, so keep a close eye on the bowl to prevent any overheating.
2. Alternatively, you can preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the bowl on a baking sheet. Heat it in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s warmed to your liking. This method will ensure a crispy texture to the toppings.
3. Once the bowl is heated, carefully remove it from the microwave or oven. Be cautious, as the bowl may be hot.
4. Give the KFC Famous Bowl a final check to make sure all the components are warmed through and the cheese is melted. If needed, you can add an extra sprinkle of cheese on top and heat it for a few seconds to melt it.
5. Place the warm and delicious KFC Famous Bowl on a serving platter or enjoy it straight from the bowl. The choice is yours!
6. Invite your family or friends to join you and serve the bowl while it’s still piping hot. The comforting aroma and enticing presentation will surely build anticipation.
7. Finally, grab a spoon and dig into your homemade KFC Famous Bowl. Savor each bite, enjoying the combination of flavors, textures, and the satisfying blend of ingredients that make this dish so beloved.
Remember, the KFC Famous Bowl is meant to be enjoyed as a hearty and indulgent meal. Sit back, relax, and relish in the flavorful experience you’ve created in your very own kitchen. But don’t forget to share the joy with your loved ones!
Now, it’s time to indulge in the deliciousness of your homemade KFC Famous Bowl. Enjoy!