KFC potato wedges are once again available across the U.S., making a triumphant return after a five-year hiatus. The much-loved side dish is set to be back in restaurants starting August 18, igniting excitement among fans nationwide.
Nostalgia and Demand Drive Return
KFC potato wedges originally debuted in the mid-1990s and enjoyed cult-favorite status through the early 2000s before being discontinued in 2020 during a menu simplification that introduced Secret Recipe Fries nrn.comAllrecipesSouthern Living.
Since then, fans rallied relentlessly—many signed petitions (one reportedly surpassed 8,100 signatures) and flooded social media with calls to bring the wedges back AllrecipesSouthern LivingChange.org.
From Tampa Test to Nationwide Rollout
In March, KFC teased the comeback with a surprise limited rollout in Tampa, Florida, where the wedges quickly sold out in some restaurants, proving that diner demand was real nrn.comSouthern LivingThe Sun.
The successful test triggered a broader reinstatement. An initial soft launch reportedly began around August 11—leaked by an employee—followed by confirmation of a full nationwide debut from August 18 The Sun.
Menu Strategy & Value Offers
KFC potato wedges aren’t returning alone. The chain is also reviving Hot & Spicy Wings, which feature a spicy marinade and double hand-breading in the Extra Crispy flour, making a return after nearly two years Southern LivingABC NewsAllrecipes.
The comeback is part of KFC’s “Kentucky Fried Comeback” campaign aimed at reclaiming lost ground in the U.S. fast-food market nrn.comrestaurantdive.com.
A suite of value deals is accompanying the re-launch, including:
- Wings & Wedges combo: six-piece wings with wedges and a medium drink.
- $20 Fan Favorites Box: includes 10 Hot & Spicy Wings, 12 Chicken Nuggets, Potato Wedges, four biscuits, and four dipping sauces.
- Additional offers: $3.99 Chicken Sandwich, 20 Wings for $20 (digital-only, Sept 4), and $10 Tuesdays for eight pieces of fried chicken or tenders restaurantdive.comABC News.
Brand Turnaround & Consumer Insight
KFC has struggled to maintain market share, notably being overtaken by competitors like Raising Cane’s, Chick-fil-A, and Popeyes in recent years nrn.comrestaurantdive.com. The return of wedge and wings is a direct response to consumer feedback—an example of using menu nostalgia to reinvigorate brand appeal restaurantdive.comSouthern Living.
Company leadership, including KFC U.S. president Catherine Tan-Gillespie, reinforced that this isn’t just a nostalgic play, but a strategic move to reconnect with customers Southern Livingnrn.com.
Social Media Buzz
The response was swift on social media. Funny memes, heartfelt posts, and emotional reactions flooded platforms.
Fans on Reddit celebrated the return:
“These coming back will ensure I gain at least a few pounds… before they are inevitably gone again” Reddit.
Elsewhere:
“They must have seen my text yesterday…” and “I’m so hyped about the return of Potato Wedges!” The Sun.
What to Watch
- Will the potato wedges and wings sell out quickly? Availability is limited—“while supplies last” Southern LivingAllrecipes.
- Will this limited-time launch catalyze long-term menu inclusion?
- Can this nostalgia-infused campaign help KFC reverse its sales decline and strengthen customer loyalty?
In summary, the KFC potato wedges are riding a wave of fan passion back into U.S. restaurants. Their comeback underscores the power of consumer voice and nostalgia in fast food strategy—proving once again that sometimes, old favorites make the biggest impact.
