Craving that satisfying KFC chicken taste but looking for a healthier, homemade option? This Chicken Bowl recipe delivers all the crispy, flavorful goodness without the guilt! It's a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, and surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to enjoy a delicious dish that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly. This recipe is packed with flavor and customizable to your liking, making it a winner for the whole family.
Ingredients:
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For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
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For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- Your favorite KFC-style sauce (recipe below or store-bought)
KFC-Style Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken:
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- In a separate dish, whisk together the buttermilk.
- Dip each chicken cube into the buttermilk, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Assembling the Bowls:
- Divide the cooked rice evenly among bowls.
- Top with the crispy fried chicken.
- Add coleslaw mix, corn, tomatoes, and red onion.
- Drizzle generously with your homemade or store-bought KFC-style sauce.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken; this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry in batches if necessary.
- For extra crispy chicken, let the dredged chicken rest for about 15 minutes before frying. This allows the flour to absorb the buttermilk, resulting in a crispier coating.
- Adjust the spices to your preference. If you like a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to your bowl, such as shredded carrots, black beans, or bell peppers.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on portion sizes and ingredients used. Use a nutrition calculator for a precise estimate based on your specific ingredients. Generally expect a moderate calorie count with a good source of protein.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Bowl: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the flour mixture or use a spicier sauce.
- Veggie Chicken Bowl: Substitute the chicken with crispy tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
- BBQ Chicken Bowl: Use your favorite BBQ sauce instead of the KFC-style sauce.
This easy recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy your homemade KFC-style chicken bowl!