KFC Copycat Casserole | Creamy, Cheesy, Comfort-Food Classic

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If you love KFC’s famous bowls — those dreamy layers of creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, crispy chicken, and savory brown gravy — you’re going to fall head over heels for this KFC Copycat Casserole Recipe. It’s everything you crave from fast food, but homemade, heartier, and even more delicious.

This dish takes all those comfort flavors and turns them into a bubbly, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, game days, or cozy nights in. It’s the definition of indulgent comfort food — creamy, crispy, and loaded with rich, homestyle flavor in every bite.

The best part? You can whip it up in less than 30 minutes using simple ingredients you already have in your kitchen. Whether you make it with leftover chicken or store-bought popcorn chicken, this casserole hits that nostalgic KFC flavor right out of the oven.

Why You’ll Love This KFC Copycat Casserole

  • Tastes just like KFC’s famous bowls — but better!
  • Creamy, cheesy, and comforting.
  • Uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients.
  • Family-friendly and easy to prepare ahead.
  • Great way to use leftover mashed potatoes or chicken.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

This casserole is comfort food at its finest. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table happy — rich, creamy potatoes, buttery corn, crispy chicken bites, and melty cheese all smothered in savory gravy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

And since everything bakes together in one dish, cleanup is a breeze. If you’re craving that classic KFC flavor without leaving home, this recipe is your new go-to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Base:

  • 4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 cups frozen corn (thawed)
  • 2 cups cooked popcorn chicken or chicken tenders (chopped)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 ½ cups brown gravy (store-bought or homemade)

Optional Garnish:

  • Chopped parsley or chives
  • Cracked black pepper
  • Extra shredded cheese

Homemade Gravy (optional):

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make This KFC Copycat Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole pan.

Step 2: Prepare mashed potatoes
If you’re using leftover mashed potatoes, reheat them slightly so they’re easy to spread. Season with salt, pepper, and a bit of butter if needed.

Step 3: Layer the casserole
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Layer the corn on top of the potatoes.
Add the chopped popcorn chicken evenly across the surface.

Step 4: Pour on the gravy
Drizzle the brown gravy evenly over the chicken and corn layer.

Step 5: Add cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top.

Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley, chives, or a little extra cheese if desired.

Tips for the Best KFC Copycat Casserole

  1. Use leftover mashed potatoes. It’s the perfect way to repurpose extras.
  2. Homemade or frozen chicken both work. Popcorn chicken, nuggets, or tenders — whatever you have!
  3. Make it extra cheesy. Mix some cheese into the potatoes and add more on top.
  4. Don’t skip the gravy. It ties all the flavors together.
  5. Add garlic to your potatoes. For an extra flavor boost, stir in roasted or minced garlic.
  6. Customize it. Add bacon bits, green onions, or jalapeños for flair.
  7. Balance the salt. Store-bought gravy and chicken can be salty — taste before adding more.
  8. Meal prep tip: Assemble ahead and refrigerate; bake when ready to eat.
  9. Want it creamier? Stir in a little sour cream or cream cheese to the potatoes.
  10. Double the recipe for a crowd. It’s always a hit at potlucks and gatherings.

Variations & Substitutions

  1. Buffalo version: Drizzle buffalo sauce over the chicken for a spicy twist.
  2. BBQ-style: Swap gravy for BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet version.
  3. Loaded casserole: Add crispy bacon, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.
  4. Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
  5. Spicy cheddar twist: Use pepper jack or sharp cheddar for extra flavor.
  6. Creamy ranch version: Mix ranch seasoning into the mashed potatoes.
  7. Gravy swap: Use white country gravy instead of brown for a Southern flair.
  8. Breakfast twist: Use hash browns instead of mashed potatoes and top with eggs.
  9. Healthier option: Use baked chicken and light gravy.
  10. Make it deluxe: Layer with caramelized onions and fried shallots on top.

What to Serve With KFC Copycat Casserole

  • Flaky biscuits or dinner rolls
  • Coleslaw — just like at KFC!
  • Side salad with ranch or vinaigrette
  • Sweet corn on the cob
  • Green beans or sautéed spinach
  • Mac and cheese for the ultimate comfort combo
  • Mashed sweet potatoes for a Southern side twist
  • Pickles or bread-and-butter chips for tang
  • Sweet tea or lemonade for a true comfort meal
  • Apple pie or cobbler to finish the meal Southern-style

Storage & Reheating Tips

  1. Cool before storing. Prevent condensation and soggy texture.
  2. Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  3. Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months.
  4. Reheat in oven: Warm at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until hot.
  5. Microwave option: Heat individual servings in 1-minute intervals.
  6. Add gravy when reheating. Keeps the casserole moist.
  7. Cover when reheating. Prevents cheese from drying out.
  8. Meal prep friendly. Assemble ahead and bake fresh for best texture.
  9. Avoid reheating multiple times. Reheat only what you’ll eat.
  10. Add fresh toppings. Chives or parsley brighten leftovers beautifully.

Recipe FAQs

  1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
    Yes! They work perfectly — just make them thicker so the layers hold up.
  2. Can I use homemade fried chicken?
    Definitely. Chop up leftover fried chicken or use baked pieces.
  3. What kind of gravy works best?
    Brown gravy or KFC-style chicken gravy — homemade or store-bought both work great.
  4. Can I make this ahead of time?
    Yes! Assemble, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake before serving.
  5. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
    Absolutely — it’s a great shortcut!
  6. How do I make it crispier?
    Add an extra handful of popcorn chicken on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
  7. Can I add vegetables?
    Sure — peas, green beans, or carrots blend nicely.
  8. Can I make it dairy-free?
    Use dairy-free mashed potatoes and skip the cheese.
  9. Can I double it for parties?
    Yes — use a larger dish and extend baking time by 10–15 minutes.
  10. What’s the best cheese for this?
    Cheddar melts beautifully, but mozzarella or a cheddar-jack mix also works.

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