KFC Might Finally Be Getting Better ― And Here’s Why

Even the most casual of fried chicken observers (and yes, there are observers of fried chicken) will have noticed that KFC lost its grip on the market years ago. What was once a go-to restaurant became a lot of people’s third, fourth, or last choice – and while much of that was to do with other chicken chains stepping up and dominating, it was also to do with the fact that KFC looked like it was on the decline. Increasingly, people felt that the chicken was getting worse, the standards were slipping, and it was losing its way.

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2026, though, has seen KFC making a big push to return to its former glory – but it’s doing that by refreshing, well, pretty much everything. It’s just announced its vision for its future, and you can expect to see it focusing a lot more on certain things from now on. Here’s what we know.

KFC’s Next Chapter

In a press release published yesterday, KFC mapped out what looks to be a big brand refresh, which feels like an attempt to reposition the business to a younger audience. “This next chapter brings new energy and expression to what makes us iconic, while doubling down on our chicken and reimagining how fans experience KFC around the world,” said KFC Global’s CEO, Scott Mevzinksy. 

On a menu level, this “new energy and expression” essentially means that it’s focusing way more on boneless items, dips, and drinks. KFC’s around the world will soon feature its “global sauce pantry,” with more than 20 sauces to choose from, some of which will be tailored to local tastes. It’s also expanding its Dunked menu items, which are already available in South Africa and India, and which feature dip-drenched wings, tenders, and sandwiches. Oh, and new Tenders and nine new sauces will be landing in US stores in the coming weeks, it says. 

KFC is also permanently rolling out its global beverage platform, KWENCH by KFC, in Australia and Canada (it’s already available at some UK and Ireland stores). Boba Refreshers, Krunch Shakes, Sparkling Lemonades, and Iced Coffees will now all be on the menu. There’s no word yet on when this will arrive in the US, but if it’s a hit in these countries, it’d be surprising if it didn’t move them over pretty soon.

Better Chicken Needs Better Vibes

Alongside all the menu stuff going on, KFC is also revamping its store designs with its rollout of next-gen restaurants. The redesigned stores will feel brighter, airier, more open-concept, and adaptable, while still retaining a sense of a throwback to the chain’s heritage. 

So… a lot’s going on. And that’s on top of what KFC’s already been up to in the last few weeks alone, bringing back its fried pickles, dropping limited-time deals, and releasing its Supergirl menu (which we tried). Is this the year that it finally turns a corner? It definitely hopes so.