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Kfc Sweet Corn

Kfc Sweet Corn - recipe card

A buttery, lightly sweet side dish inspired by KFC’s signature corn. Whole kernel corn is simmered in a creamy sauce with a touch of sugar and salt, delivering a comforting, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with fried chicken or any weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups frozen sweet corn (about 1 lb), no need to thaw
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup water or whole milk (for creamier texture)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for subtle heat)
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Gather all ingredients. Use a medium skillet (10 to 12 inches) with a lid, or a saucepan. If using canned corn, drain and rinse; skip step about thawing.
  2. Place the skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Let it melt completely, swirling occasionally, until the foam subsides and the butter is fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add the frozen corn kernels to the skillet and stir to coat evenly with the melted butter. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through and any ice crystals have evaporated.
  4. Pour in the water (or milk) and sprinkle the sugar, salt, and optional cayenne evenly over the corn. Stir gently to combine. The liquid will help dissolve the sugar and create a light sauce.
  5. Bring the mixture to a simmer — small bubbles will appear around the edges. Reduce the heat to medium-low so that the liquid barely simmers, and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the corn is tender and the liquid has reduced slightly.
  6. Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream. Increase the heat to medium and cook, uncovered, for 1 more minute, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Do not let it boil rapidly or the cream can separate.
  7. Taste the corn and adjust seasoning with additional salt or sugar if desired. The kernels should be juicy, tender, and enveloped in a buttery, lightly sweet sauce. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and microwave on high in 30-second bursts, stirring between, until steaming; or reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or water. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the corn and cream sauce becomes grainy upon thawing.

Nutrition

Keywords: KFC sweet corn, copycat KFC corn, sweet corn side dish, buttery corn, creamed corn style, quick side dish, American side, corn recipe, easy corn, frozen corn recipe