KFC, the iconic fast-food chain known for its finger-lickin’ good fried chicken, has been keeping a secret up its sleeve – a secret menu that offers unique and delicious items beyond its regular offerings. While the famous “11 herbs and spices” recipe that seasons KFC’s original chicken remains a closely guarded trade secret, the company has been experimenting with new flavors and combinations to delight its loyal customers.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of KFC secret menu, part of the KFC menu with prices exploring the hidden gems that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From mouthwatering burgers to indulgent desserts, KFC’s secret menu has something for everyone. So, get ready to discover the best-kept secrets in the world of fried chicken!
What is the KFC Secret Menu?
The KFC Secret Menu is a hidden list of exclusive food items that aren’t found on the standard KFC menu. These items are often experimental or custom creations that have gained popularity through word of mouth and online communities. The secret menu allows KFC fans to explore new flavors and combinations, offering a unique twist on the classic KFC experience.
Unlike the regular menu, the secret menu isn’t advertised by KFC, so it’s something only in-the-know customers might ask for. Items on the secret menu vary by location and can include creative modifications of existing menu items, such as adding extra ingredients or combining different dishes in unexpected ways.
Obtaining access to KFC’s secret menu is not as straightforward as one might think. While the company has made some items available through its mobile app and select promotions, the majority of the secret menu remains hidden from plain sight.
To access the secret menu, customers must be savvy and persistent. Keeping an eye out for limited-time offers, special promotions, and even insider knowledge can be the key to unlocking the hidden flavors of KFC’s secret menu.
The Origins of the Secret Menu
The idea of a secret menu at KFC stems from the legendary status of the chain’s original 11 herbs and spices recipe. Developed by Colonel Harland Sanders himself, this blend of seasonings is the foundation of KFC’s iconic fried chicken. The recipe is so closely guarded that it is stored in a vault at the company’s headquarters, with only a select few individuals privy to the exact proportions.
This air of mystery and exclusivity has fueled the desire for KFC fans to uncover hidden menu items that only a select few have access to. Over the years, KFC has strategically released certain secret menu items, building anticipation and excitement among its loyal customer base.
KFC Secret Menu Items
| Menu Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Build-Your-Own Bowl | Customize your own KFC bowl with a choice of base (mashed potatoes or rice), chicken, corn, cheese, and gravy, tailored to your taste. |
| Hot Pocket Bowl | A twist on the traditional KFC bowl with Hot Pocket-style chicken, corn, melted cheese, and gravy for a warm, comforting meal. |
| Poutine | Canadian-inspired dish with crispy fries, cheese curds, and hot gravy, offering a savory, indulgent flavor. |
| Triple Down | An extreme version of the Double Down, featuring three chicken fillets, extra bacon, and cheese for a massive, protein-packed meal. |
| Double Down | A legendary sandwich with two fried chicken fillets replacing the bun, filled with bacon, cheese, and sauce. |
| Drumstick and Dip | KFC’s crispy drumsticks paired with a variety of dipping sauces like BBQ, ranch, and buffalo, perfect for a customizable, flavorful experience. |
| Zinger Stacker | A double-decker version of the Zinger sandwich with two spicy chicken fillets, double cheese, and extra spicy mayo. |
| Ultimate Zinger | An upgraded Zinger sandwich with extra chicken fillets, cheese, bacon, and spicy mayo, offering a more filling and flavorful experience. |
| Double Zinger | A heartier version of the Zinger sandwich, featuring two spicy fillets, extra cheese, and toppings for a bold and satisfying meal. |
| Sloppy Shots | A messy, flavorful sandwich with KFC chicken pieces mixed in a tangy, savory sauce, served on a soft bun, reminiscent of a Sloppy Joe. |
| Colonel’s Belgian Bites | Mini Belgian waffles served with crispy chicken bites and syrup, offering a sweet and savory combination perfect for breakfast or a snack. |
| Add Bacon | Enhance any KFC meal by adding crispy, smoky bacon, perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or bowls. |
| Add Mashed Potatoes | Incorporate KFC’s creamy mashed potatoes into any meal, whether in a sandwich, bowl, or wrap, for added comfort and flavor. |
| Biscuits on the Side | Add KFC’s warm, buttery biscuits to any meal, perfect for dipping in gravy or enjoying on their own with honey or butter. |
Build-Your-Own Bowl
The KFC Build-Your-Own Bowl is a customizable menu option that allows customers to create a personalized bowl using various ingredients available at KFC. This secret menu item enables patrons to mix and match from a wide selection of KFC’s offerings, making it a unique dining experience.
When building your own bowl, you can choose from a variety of ingredients, including:
- Base: Mashed potatoes, fries, or rice
- Proteins: Fried chicken, chicken nuggets, or popcorn chicken
- Vegetables: Corn, green beans, or other available sides
- Toppings: Gravy, cheese, and additional sauces
This flexibility allows customers to design a bowl that suits their taste preferences, whether they desire a hearty meal with mashed potatoes and gravy or a lighter option with vegetables and chicken.
To order a Build-Your-Own Bowl, simply ask the staff at your local KFC if you can customize your bowl. Not all locations may officially recognize this option, so it’s advisable to confirm beforehand.
Hot Pocket Bowl
The KFC Hot Pocket Bowl is a secret menu item that features a hot pocket of dough filled with chicken, covered in cheese, corn, and gravy. However, it is no longer regularly available at most KFC locations.
To order a Hot Pocket Bowl, you would need to ask if the restaurant has the necessary ingredients on hand and if they are willing to make this off-menu item. Due to its limited availability, you may have difficulty finding a location that can accommodate this request.
Poutine
The KFC Poutine is a secret menu item that combines the classic Canadian dish of poutine with KFC’s signature ingredients. It consists of: French fries, Cheese curds and KFC gravy
To order the KFC Poutine, simply ask for a “Poutine” from the secret menu. If the staff is unfamiliar with it, you can order French fries and request them to add cheese curds and gravy on top. However, the availability of KFC Poutine is limited to certain locations. Not all KFC restaurants may have the necessary ingredients or be willing to make this off-menu item.
Triple Down
The KFC Triple Down is a secret menu item that expands on the concept of the KFC Double Down. It consists of three pieces of KFC’s famous fried chicken stacked together, with layers of bacon and cheese, and notably, it does not include a bun.
The sandwich is essentially a triple-decker version of the Double Down, which originally featured two pieces of fried chicken fillet as the “buns.”
You can request additional layers of chicken, bacon, and cheese according to your preference. There is also an option to have it made with grilled chicken instead of fried if you prefer a lighter version.
The KFC Triple Down is available at most KFC locations, but not all restaurants may offer it.
Double Down
The KFC Double Down is a unique sandwich that replaces traditional bread with two pieces of fried chicken fillets.
This iconic creation consists of:
- Two fried chicken fillets (100% white meat)
- Two slices of cheese
- Two pieces of crispy, hickory-smoked bacon
- Sauce (either the Colonel’s real mayo or spicy sauce)
It was first introduced in 2010 and quickly gained a cult following, selling over 10 million units in its first month alone.
After a nearly ten-year hiatus, KFC announced the return of the Double Down on March 6, 2023, for a limited time of four weeks. This re-release was highly anticipated, with fans expressing their desire for its comeback through social media and petitions. The sandwich was marketed as a “bunless” option, appealing to those looking for a high-protein meal without the carbs associated with bread.
Drumstick and Dip
The “Drumstick and Dip” is a delightful secret menu item at KFC that takes the classic drumstick experience to the next level. At its core, this item features KFC’s famous drumsticks, which are celebrated for their crispy, golden-brown exterior and tender, juicy meat. These drumsticks are seasoned with KFC’s signature blend of 11 herbs and spices, delivering that iconic flavor that fans have loved for generations.
What sets the Drumstick and Dip apart is the array of dipping sauces that accompany the chicken. Customers can choose from a variety of KFC’s dipping sauces, including smoky barbecue, tangy honey mustard, creamy ranch, spicy buffalo, and the unique KFC Signature Sauce, which combines sweet, tangy, and savory notes. This variety allows diners to customize their experience, enhancing the flavor of each bite by pairing it with the sauce of their choice.
Zinger Stacker
The KFC Zinger Stacker is a standout item from KFC’s menu, particularly popular among fans of spicy chicken sandwiches. This burger features two crispy Zinger fillets, which are known for their signature blend of spices, stacked between a lightly toasted bun.
Each fillet is topped with two slices of melted cheese, enhancing the sandwich’s richness. For added flavor, the Zinger Stacker includes a combination of Supercharger sauce and sweet chili sauce, providing a delightful kick that complements the chicken perfectly.
To order the Zinger Stacker, simply ask for it at the counter, and you can enjoy it as part of a meal that typically includes regular Signature fries and a drink. The Zinger Stacker is celebrated not only for its bold flavors but also for its satisfying texture, making it a popular choice for those seeking a hearty and spicy meal.
Ultimate Zinger
The KFC Ultimate Zinger is a delicious offering from KFC’s secret menu, designed for those craving a flavorful twist on the classic Zinger sandwich. This unique creation features a combination of ingredients that elevate the standard chicken sandwich experience.
The Ultimate Zinger includes two mini crispy chicken fillets, which provide a satisfying crunch and juicy flavor. It is also layered with pulled barbecue chicken, adding a smoky richness to the sandwich.
Fresh lettuce and cheese complement the chicken, while southern-style coleslaw introduces a creamy texture and additional flavor. The combination of these ingredients results in a flavor explosion that balances moderate heat with savory elements, making it an appealing choice for spice lovers without overwhelming them.
To order the Ultimate Zinger, simply ask the staff for a pulled chicken ultimate burger and request the addition of a Zinger filet on top. This sandwich is perfect for those looking to indulge in a hearty meal that combines the best of KFC’s offerings with a zesty kick.
Double Zinger
The KFC Double Zinger is a heartier and more indulgent version of the classic Zinger sandwich, catering to those with a bigger appetite or a craving for more of KFC’s spicy chicken goodness. This secret menu item doubles up on everything that makes the original Zinger sandwich so popular.
The Double Zinger features two crispy, spicy Zinger fillets stacked together in one sandwich, providing a substantial boost in both size and flavor. These fillets are coated in KFC’s signature Zinger seasoning, which delivers a spicy kick that fans of the Zinger sandwich love. Along with the double chicken, the sandwich includes fresh lettuce, slices of cheese, and a generous amount of spicy mayo, all encased in a soft bun.
The Double Zinger is perfect for those who find the regular Zinger sandwich delicious but want something more filling. The additional chicken fillet adds more protein and amplifies the sandwich’s spicy profile, making it a satisfying meal for anyone who enjoys bold flavors and a bit of heat.
Sloppy Shots
KFC Sloppy Shots is a creative and messy secret menu item that combines KFC’s signature crispy chicken with a tangy, savory sauce, reminiscent of a classic Sloppy Joe. Instead of using ground beef like a traditional Sloppy Joe, KFC’s version uses pieces of their crispy fried chicken as the base, which are then mixed with a rich, flavorful sauce that’s both sweet and savory.
The “Sloppy Shots” are typically served on a soft bun, making them a handheld meal that’s both delicious and delightfully messy. The sauce, which is the star of this dish, coats the chicken pieces, creating a juicy, flavorful filling that’s different from KFC’s usual offerings.
The combination of the crispy chicken with the gooey sauce makes this item a unique treat for those who enjoy bold flavors and don’t mind a bit of messiness while eating.
While it might not be as well-known as some other secret menu items, KFC Sloppy Shots are definitely worth trying if you’re looking for something different and flavorful at KFC.
Colonel’s Belgian Bites
Colonel’s Belgian Bites is a delicious and unique KFC secret menu item that combines the sweet and savory in a way that only KFC can. These bites consist of mini Belgian waffles paired with crispy, golden-brown chicken bites, creating a perfect blend of textures and flavors. The dish is typically served with a side of syrup, allowing you to drizzle the sweet syrup over the warm waffles and chicken, creating a mouthwatering contrast between the sweet and savory elements.
The idea behind Colonel’s Belgian Bites is similar to the classic chicken and waffles dish, but in a smaller, more snackable form. This makes it a great option for breakfast, brunch, or even as a dessert, depending on your preference. The crispy chicken bites add a savory crunch, while the Belgian waffles provide a soft, slightly sweet base that pairs perfectly with the syrup.
Add Bacon
You can easily add bacon to any KFC menu item by simply asking for it when you place your order. Bacon, with its rich, smoky flavor and crunchy texture, enhances just about any dish, and KFC offers the flexibility to include it in sandwiches, wraps, bowls, or even on top of their famous fried chicken.
This secret menu hack is perfect for bacon lovers who want to take their KFC meal to the next level. Whether you’re enjoying a Zinger sandwich, a KFC bowl, or even a bucket of chicken, asking for bacon adds an extra layer of flavor and satisfaction. The bacon used at KFC is typically thick-cut and cooked until crispy, providing a delicious contrast to the tender chicken menu and creamy side menu like mashed potatoes or coleslaw.
Add Mashed Potatoes
KFC lets you add their creamy, buttery mashed potatoes into almost any meal. This hack is all about enhancing your favorite KFC items with the comforting, rich flavor of mashed potatoes, creating a more filling and indulgent dish.
You can ask to add mashed potatoes to sandwiches, wraps, or even KFC bowls. For example, you could have mashed potatoes layered inside a sandwich, providing a soft, creamy contrast to the crispy chicken. This option works particularly well with items like the Famous Bowl, where you can mix the mashed potatoes directly with corn, gravy, and chicken for an even heartier version of the classic dish.
Biscuits on the Side
KFC biscuits are known for their fluffy, buttery texture and slightly crispy exterior, making them a perfect complement to the rich and savory flavors of KFC’s chicken dishes.
Normally, KFC biscuits are included with certain meals or family combos, but by specifically asking for “biscuits on the side,” you can ensure that these warm, buttery delights are part of your order, even if they’re not included by default. This option is particularly useful when you’re ordering individual items or smaller meals that don’t typically come with biscuits.
These biscuits can be enjoyed on their own, slathered with butter or honey, or used to sop up gravy from mashed potatoes or sauces from your chicken. They add a comforting, homestyle touch to any meal and can also be a great snack or dessert after you’ve finished your main course.
Conclusion
The KFC Secret Menu offers a thrilling way for fans of the fast-food chain to explore new and creative ways to enjoy their favorite dishes. From indulgent options like the Triple Down to unique creations like Poutine and the Ultimate Zinger, the secret menu provides a variety of choices that cater to those who love bold flavors and hearty meals.
While the secret menu is largely driven by word-of-mouth and varies by location, its appeal lies in the ability to customize and experiment with different ingredients and combinations.
Whether you’re a long-time KFC enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the secret menu invites you to step outside the traditional offerings and discover something new. So next time you visit KFC, don’t hesitate to ask about the secret menu items—you might just find a new favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I order from the KFC secret menu?
To order from the KFC secret menu, you need to access the secret menu in the KFC app. Go to the menu, select a certain store, then pull down to reload the menu page but hold it for about 5 seconds and release it. This should bring up an “unlock now” button that allows you to access the secret menu. Alternatively, you can simply ask the employee to make specific secret menu items. Just be prepared for some staff members to be unfamiliar with the secret menu, as it can vary by location.
Are all secret menu items available at every KFC location?
Not all secret menu items are guaranteed to be available at every KFC location. The availability of these items can vary based on regional preferences, local ingredient availability, and individual store policies. While some locations may be well-versed in the secret menu and regularly offer its items, others may not have the same level of familiarity. Therefore, it’s a good idea to call ahead or inquire with the staff at your local KFC to see if they can accommodate your request for a specific secret menu item.
How much do secret menu items cost?
The cost of secret menu items at KFC is not explicitly listed, as these items are often unofficial and can vary widely by location. Prices may depend on the specific ingredients used and the region in which the KFC is located.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options on the KFC secret menu?
Currently, KFC’s secret menu is not known for offering vegetarian or vegan options. Most of the items on the secret menu are centered around KFC’s signature fried chicken, which is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. However, you can inquire at your local KFC about any potential customizations, such as ordering sides like corn or green beans, but these would still be limited and likely cooked with animal products, so strict vegetarians and vegans might find it challenging to find suitable options at KFC.
Can I mix and match secret menu items?
Yes, one of the fun aspects of KFC’s secret menu is the ability to mix and match items. Customers are often encouraged to get creative with their orders, combining different secret menu items or adding extra ingredients like bacon or mashed potatoes to create a unique meal. For instance, you could add bacon to a Double Zinger or mix mashed potatoes into a Hot Pocket Bowl. This customization allows you to enjoy a more personalized dining experience at KFC.
What are some of the most popular secret menu items at KFC?
Some of the most popular secret menu items at KFC include the Triple Down, which is an even more indulgent version of the Double Down, featuring three chicken fillets, extra bacon, and cheese. The Poutine, a Canadian-inspired dish with fries, cheese curds, and gravy, is also a fan favorite. Additionally, the Zinger Stacker and the Ultimate Zinger, which add extra spice and layers to the classic Zinger sandwich, are highly sought after by those who love bold flavors.
How often does KFC update its secret menu?
KFC doesn’t have a set schedule for updating its secret menu, as it tends to be more of a word-of-mouth phenomenon rather than an officially promoted feature. The availability of secret menu items can vary by location and might change based on customer demand or regional preferences. While some secret menu items have become staples, others might appear temporarily or be available only in specific regions, so it’s always a good idea to ask at your local KFC if they offer any new or unique secret menu items.