Seafood

Ultimate KFC Famous Bowl Casserole

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups homemade mashed potatoes
  • 2 cups cooked corn kernels
  • 2 cups Tyson Any’tizers Popcorn Chicken (or any cooked popcorn chicken)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup brown gravy (store-bought or homemade)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
  2. Prepare Mashed Potatoes:
    • Make your homemade mashed potatoes following your favorite recipe. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
  3. Layer Corn:
    • Spread the cooked corn kernels over the mashed potatoes layer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Add Popcorn Chicken:
    • Arrange the cooked Tyson Any’tizers Popcorn Chicken evenly over the corn layer. You can use more or less chicken depending on your preference.
  5. Sprinkle with Cheese:
    • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the popcorn chicken layer, covering it completely.
  6. Bake:
    • Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
  7. Add Gravy:
    • Once the casserole is cooked, remove it from the oven. Drizzle the brown gravy evenly over the top of the melted cheese. You can warm the gravy before drizzling if desired.
  8. Garnish and Serve:
    • Garnish the casserole with chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation, if desired.
    • Serve your Ultimate KFC Famous Bowl Casserole hot and enjoy the delicious layers of mashed potatoes, corn, popcorn chicken, melted cheese, and savory gravy.

This casserole is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for a cozy family dinner or potluck gathering. Feel free to customize the ingredients to your liking and enjoy the comforting flavors of this homemade version of the KFC famous bowl!

Here are some helpful tips to make your Ultimate KFC Famous Bowl Casserole even more delightful:

  1. Season Each Layer: Season each layer of the casserole individually with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices to enhance the flavors throughout.
  2. Homemade Gravy: Consider making your own homemade gravy for an extra flavorful touch. You can use pan drippings from roasted chicken or beef for added depth of flavor.
  3. Variety of Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese or a blend of cheeses for added flavor. Smoked Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack cheese can add a unique twist to the dish.
  4. Crispy Topping: For extra crunch, mix crushed potato chips or French fried onions with the shredded cheese before sprinkling it over the casserole. This adds a crispy texture to each bite.
  5. Add Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables such as diced bell peppers, onions, or peas for added color, texture, and nutrition. Sauté them lightly before layering them in the casserole.
  6. Spice it Up: Add a kick of heat by mixing some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mashed potatoes or gravy. This adds a spicy element to balance the richness of the dish.
  7. Fresh Herbs: Garnish the casserole with freshly chopped herbs such as parsley, chives, or cilantro before serving. This adds a burst of freshness and brightens up the flavors.
  8. Make it Creamy: Mix a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese into the mashed potatoes for an extra creamy texture and rich flavor.
  9. Layering Technique: Experiment with different layering techniques to create visual interest. Try alternating layers of mashed potatoes, corn, chicken, and cheese for a more uniform distribution of ingredients.
  10. Serve with Extras: Serve the casserole with additional toppings such as bacon bits, diced tomatoes, or sliced avocado for added flavor and texture. These toppings can be served on the side for individual customization.

By incorporating these tips, you’ll take your Ultimate KFC Famous Bowl Casserole to the next level and create a dish that’s even more flavorful and satisfying. Enjoy!

Here are some secrets to help you achieve perfection:

  1. Balance of Flavors: Ensure a perfect balance of flavors by seasoning each layer of the casserole well. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance the overall flavor profile.
  2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Make sure your mashed potatoes are creamy and well-seasoned. Use plenty of butter and milk or cream, and don’t be afraid to add extra seasoning such as garlic powder or onion powder for added flavor.
  3. Crispy Chicken: For the best texture, cook the chicken until it’s crispy and golden brown. If using pre-cooked chicken, briefly reheat it in the oven or air fryer before layering it in the casserole to maintain its crispiness.
  4. Layering Technique: Pay attention to the layering technique to ensure even distribution of ingredients. Start with a layer of mashed potatoes at the bottom of the casserole dish, followed by corn, chicken, and cheese. Repeat the layers until the dish is filled, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
  5. Generous Cheese: Be generous with the shredded cheese on top of the casserole. The melted cheese creates a gooey, irresistible topping that adds richness and flavor to the dish.
  6. Warm Gravy: Warm the gravy before drizzling it over the casserole. This helps the gravy to spread evenly and ensures that it doesn’t cool down the other ingredients when added to the hot casserole.
  7. Fresh Garnishes: Garnish the finished casserole with fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. This adds a finishing touch to the dish and enhances its visual appeal.
  8. Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to slice and serve.
  9. Customization: Feel free to customize the casserole to suit your taste preferences. Add extra ingredients such as diced tomatoes, bacon bits, or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
  10. Enjoy with Extras: Serve the casserole with extra gravy on the side for dipping, along with your favorite hot sauce or condiments. This allows each person to customize their serving according to their taste.

By following these secrets, you’ll be well on your way to achieving the perfect Ultimate KFC Famous Bowl Casserole that’s flavorful, satisfying, and sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Here are some commonly asked questions and their answers related to the Ultimate KFC Famous Bowl Casserole:

  1. Can I use store-bought mashed potatoes instead of homemade?
    • Yes, you can use store-bought mashed potatoes if you prefer. Just make sure to choose a variety that you enjoy and that complements the other flavors in the casserole.
  2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
  3. How long does this casserole need to bake?
    • The casserole typically needs to bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to avoid overcooking.
  4. Can I use different toppings or add-ins?
    • Yes, feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite toppings or add-ins. Popular additions include diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, crispy bacon bits, or a drizzle of ranch dressing.
  5. What type of cheese works best for this casserole?
    • Cheddar cheese is the classic choice for this casserole, but you can also use other varieties such as Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a blend of cheeses for added flavor.
  6. Can I use a different type of protein instead of chicken?
    • Yes, you can substitute the chicken with other proteins such as ground beef, shredded pork, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to cook the protein thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
  7. How do I store leftovers?
    • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.
  8. Can I freeze this casserole?
    • Yes, you can freeze this casserole for longer storage. Make sure to wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  9. How do I reheat leftovers?
    • Reheat leftover casserole in the microwave or oven until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or extra gravy to prevent it from drying out during reheating.
  10. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
    • Yes, you can make this casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free ingredients such as corn tortilla chips instead of Doritos and ensuring that any store-bought ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

These are some of the common questions related to the Ultimate KFC Famous Bowl Casserole, and I hope these answers are helpful!