KFC Reintroduces Potato Wedges and Hot & Spicy Wings After Five-Year Absence

KFC is bringing back its potato wedges and Hot & Spicy Wings after a five-year wait. The decision came after years of fan petitions and a successful limited test run in Florida. The menu items will return nationwide on August 18 as part of KFC's "Kentucky Fried Comeback" effort to reconnect with customers. The comeback is a response to fan demands and the success of a limited test run in Florida.

Title: KFC Announces Nationwide Return of Potato Wedges and Hot & Spicy Wings

KFC has announced a significant move in its ongoing "Kentucky Fried Comeback" campaign, with the return of its beloved Potato Wedges and Hot & Spicy Wings. The decision to bring back these fan-favorite items comes after years of petitions and a successful limited test run in Florida. The nationwide return is scheduled for August 18, aiming to reconnect with customers and boost market share.

The Potato Wedges, which were last available in 2020, will be available nationwide while supplies last. The Hot & Spicy Wings, which had a brief hiatus of nearly two years, will also return with a spicy marinade and double hand-breading in KFC's signature Extra Crispy flour. The return of these items is part of KFC's broader strategy to regain market share and enhance customer satisfaction.

Catherine Tan-Gillespie, President of KFC U.S., stated, "Wedge-lovers, we heard you—and we agree it’s been five long years without wedges. But the wait is over. This isn’t just a nostalgic nod. It’s an example of how we’re turning feedback into action as we chart our Kentucky Fried Comeback, a bold, brand-wide rally to give people more reasons to fall in love with us all over again."

In addition to the return of these classic menu items, KFC is offering several promotional deals to coincide with the launch. Customers can order wedges on their own, substitute any side for wedges, or try them as part of a new six-piece wings-and-wedges combo that comes with a medium drink. A $20 Wings & Wedges Fan Favorites Box is also available, including 10 Hot & Spicy Wings, 12 KFC Chicken Nuggets, Potato Wedges, four biscuits, and four dipping sauces.

KFC's comeback campaign, which began in July, has been aimed at regaining its position in the competitive fast-food market. The chain faced a challenging 2024, with sales down 5.2% according to Technomic data [1]. However, the chain has shown progress in the first quarter of 2025, with same-store sales declining by just 1%. The recent return of the Potato Wedges and Hot & Spicy Wings is seen as a strategic move to capitalize on customer demand and nostalgia, potentially boosting sales and market share.

References
[1] https://www.nrn.com/quick-service/kfc-s-potato-wedges-return-to-the-menu-as-part-of-the-chain-s-comeback-plan
[2] https://www.morningstar.com/news/pr-newswire/20250811ny48100/kfc-answers-the-call-of-passionate-fans-potato-wedges-and-hot-spicy-wings-make-a-nationwide-comeback
[3] https://www.southernliving.com/kfc-bringing-back-potato-wedges-11787588?srsltid=AfmBOoq8b6PoTBo7r0iFfC_OOLguFF2hm3t4wmQ5LUHMuqX8ibDHH4DB