After three long years of internet petitions, constant social media DMs, and desperate fan pleas, KFC is finally answering the call: Popcorn Chicken is officially back. The beloved bite-sized menu item that earned cult status in the 90s has returned for a limited time — and this time, it’s arriving with a bucket option meant for sharing. Read on to discover all the delicious details of the comeback, including the new meal deals hitting the menu nationwide.
KFC brings back a fan-favorite after years of requests
After days of growing online buzz and speculation, KFC is officially delivering what fans have been asking for: the return of its beloved Popcorn Chicken. The bite-sized menu favorite is now back at participating restaurants nationwide, marking the comeback of one of the chain’s most-requested offerings in recent years.
First launched in the early 1990s, Popcorn Chicken quickly became a cult favorite thanks to its crispy coating, snackable size, and easy-to-dip appeal. However, the fan-favorite item disappeared from menus in 2023, leaving loyal customers hoping for its eventual return.
Now, KFC is reigniting that excitement by bringing the iconic chicken snack back and celebrating the passionate fanbase that helped make the comeback possible.
“For years, KFC has heard directly from fans clamoring for Popcorn Chicken’s return. We read every comment, every DM, and even every online petition signature, and the message was impossible to ignore,” said Melissa Cash, Chief Marketing Officer, KFC U.S. “As we continue our Kentucky Fried Comeback journey, this menu item return shows our commitment to listening to our most passionate fans by giving them exactly what they’re craving. We’re nodding to nostalgia as we simultaneously modernize the brand and how it shows up throughout the world.”
New $10 Popcorn Chicken Bucket leads the lineup
To celebrate the comeback, KFC is offering several ways for customers to enjoy Popcorn Chicken. Available for a limited time and while supplies last, the returning favorite can be ordered through three different menu options:
$10 Popcorn Chicken Bucket
The highlight of the launch is the new $10 Popcorn Chicken Bucket, featuring 16 ounces of crispy Popcorn Chicken designed for sharing — although fans may have a hard time putting it down. The bucket also includes four dipping sauces, giving customers a generous serving of the returning favorite at an affordable price.
Popcorn Chicken Big Box — $10.99
For customers looking for a bigger meal, the Popcorn Chicken Big Box includes 6 ounces of Popcorn Chicken, two Original Recipe Tenders, a medium order of fries, a medium drink, two dipping sauces, and a chocolate chunk cookie.
Popcorn Chicken Combo — $8.49
The Popcorn Chicken Combo offers 6 ounces of Popcorn Chicken paired with a medium order of fries, a medium drink, and one dipping sauce.
KFC brings popcorn chicken energy to the Internet
Beyond the menu comeback, KFC is also celebrating the return by tapping into one of the internet’s most recognizable reactions: the popcorn GIF. Through a new partnership with GIPHY, the brand has launched a collection of exclusive Popcorn Chicken-themed GIFs featuring the Colonel himself.
The digital collection, which you can find here, gives fans a Kentucky Fried way to react to everything from surprising moments to must-watch events, connecting the return of Popcorn Chicken with the online culture that helped fuel its comeback.
From major sports events to the most talked-about reality TV moments of the summer, KFC is positioning Popcorn Chicken as the perfect snack companion for every occasion where fans gather, react, and enjoy the show. With its return, the brand hopes to turn everyday cravings into another moment worth celebrating.
Source:
Kentucky Fried Chicken