KFC Brings Back Popular Popcorn Chicken After Customer Demand
The fast-food chain reintroduced the fan-favorite menu item for a limited time following sustained customer requests.
KFC has responded to years of customer appeals by bringing back its popular popcorn chicken, available for a limited time starting July 13 at participating locations nationwide. The return follows a strong campaign from customers who advocated for the menu item's comeback on social media platforms and through online petitions.
Customers can purchase popcorn chicken in several options. A $10 bucket includes the popcorn chicken and four dipping sauces. The popcorn chicken 'Big Box,' priced at $10.99, features popcorn chicken, two tenders, a medium order of fries, a medium drink, two dipping sauces, and a chocolate chunk cookie. A popcorn chicken combo, costing $8.49, includes the popcorn chicken, a medium order of fries, a medium drink, and one dipping sauce.
"For years, KFC has heard directly from fans clamoring for Popcorn Chicken's return," KFC stated. "We read every comment, every DM, and even every online petition signature, and the message was impossible to ignore." The company indicated that the comeback demonstrates a commitment to listening to customer desires and providing them with what they want. The return also aims to blend nostalgia with modern brand presentation.
Popcorn chicken was initially introduced in the early 1990s and was removed from menus in early 2023 to make way for new items. Its discontinuation led to a significant customer outcry, with many expressing their disappointment on platforms like Reddit. Some customers described the removal as a poor business decision, particularly when compared to the chain's chicken nuggets, which some found inferior.
KFC, a division of Yum! Brands, which also owns Taco Bell and The Habit Burger Grill, is navigating a competitive fast-food landscape. Yum! Brands recently sold Pizza Hut to private equity firm LongRange Capital amidst sliding sales and has brought in new executive leadership to KFC from Taco Bell in an effort to revitalize the brand. Earlier this year, KFC introduced its 'snacker' sandwich as part of its ongoing efforts to update its menu and offerings to compete with rivals such as Chick-fil-A and Popeyes.