The fried chicken wars are officially back on, and KFC wants the crown. The fast-food icon is rolling out a major comeback campaign—complete with free buckets of chicken—to remind everyone who really invented crispy, craveable poultry. But before you go running to your nearest drive-thru, there’s a little fine print to know. Here’s everything you need to know about the “Kentucky Fried Comeback” and how to score a bucket of that famous 11-herbs-and-spices chicken for free.
The “Kentucky Fried Comeback” Is On
KFC isn’t pulling any punches with its latest campaign. Dubbed the “Kentucky Fried Comeback,” the brand says it’s ready to reclaim its spot as the top chicken chain in the U.S. According to a statement from KFC U.S. President Catherine Tan-Gillespie, the time has come to remind fans what made KFC famous in the first place—chicken that’s “crispy, hot, and unmistakably original.”
“We’re well aware of the latest fried chicken rankings,” she said in a July 14 press release. “If people can give their ex a million second chances, I hope our fans can give us one… Come back and give us a shot—your first bucket’s on us.”
The campaign is more than just bold words. It’s KFC’s answer to recent competitors heating up the scene—like McDonald’s re-release of its Snack Wrap. KFC is inviting America to return to the crispy classic that started it all.
How to Get Your Free Bucket of Chicken
Yes, you read that right—KFC is giving away free chicken buckets. But there’s a small catch: you’ll have to spend $15 to get in on the deal.
Here’s how it works:
Head to KFC.com or the KFC app.
Sign up or log in to your KFC Rewards account.
Place an order of $15 or more (before taxes and fees).
Redeem the “Free Bucket On Us” offer at checkout.
Once you’ve placed the order, a full bucket of chicken is yours—free of charge. But make sure to apply the reward before checking out, or the deal won’t work.
KFC is also asking customers to provide feedback after they try the chicken. The brand wants to know what customers think of its revamped recipe and kitchen improvements, so expect a follow-up form after your meal.
The free chicken promo runs through August 24, so you have a few weeks to grab your crispy prize. Just note: the deal can’t be combined with other discounts, and you’ll still be on the hook for taxes and delivery fees.
Why the Timing Matters for KFC
This isn’t just a feel-good giveaway—it’s part of a larger plan to shift public perception and reclaim market share. Over the past few years, fried chicken has become one of fast food’s most competitive categories, with players like Popeyes, Chick-fil-A, and McDonald’s battling it out over sandwiches and wraps.
While KFC has a long legacy and one of the most iconic flavor blends in the business, the chain has struggled to maintain dominance. The company says it’s made strides behind the scenes—streamlining operations and improving food quality. Now, it wants America to come taste the results.
Offering free food in exchange for feedback is a bold move—but one that could pay off big if customers like what they taste.
KFC Is Also Relocating Its Corporate Headquarters
In the middle of its fried chicken revival, KFC is also packing up and moving house. The company’s parent, Yum! Brands, announced plans earlier this year to relocate KFC’s headquarters from its long-time home in Louisville, Kentucky, to two new locations: Plano, Texas, and Irvine, California.
About 100 corporate employees will make the move to Texas in 2025, with around 90 remote workers set to follow by early 2027. The move marks a strategic shift in the brand’s operations and alignment with other Yum! Brands, which include Taco Bell and Pizza Hut.
While some loyal Kentuckians might feel a twinge of loss, the chain insists it’s not saying goodbye to its roots—just expanding its reach.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
If you’re a longtime KFC fan or someone who hasn’t visited in a while, this might be the perfect time to return. With just a $15 online order, you get a free bucket of chicken—a pretty solid deal in today’s fast-food landscape. Plus, the campaign brings a little nostalgia and fun to a crowded market that could use more of both.
The question is: will this fried chicken comeback stick the landing? That’s for fans—and future customers—to decide. One thing’s for sure: the battle for America’s favorite chicken is heating up fast.
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