Over the years, KFC has introduced a variety of menu items that have tantalized the taste buds of fast-food lovers. However, not all of these dishes have remained on the menu, leaving fans longing for their favorite flavors. Here are nine discontinued KFC items we desperately miss.
1. Double Down Sandwich
The KFC Double Down was a game-changer in fast-food innovation. Instead of a traditional sandwich bun, KFC replaced the bread with two crispy fried chicken fillets. The sandwich was stuffed with bacon, cheese, and a special sauce, creating an indulgent, protein-packed meal. Though polarizing, the Double Down had a cult following, and fans were devastated when it disappeared from the menu. Its limited-time reappearances only remind us of how much we miss this outrageous creation.
2. KFC Potato Wedges
KFC’s Potato Wedges were beloved for their golden, crispy exterior and fluffy interior, making them a perfect side to complement a bucket of fried chicken. These wedges were seasoned to perfection, offering a flavorful alternative to the standard French fry. Unfortunately, KFC swapped them out for their Secret Recipe Fries, leaving wedge lovers longing for the return of the thick, crispy bites.
3. Honey BBQ Sandwich
The Honey BBQ Sandwich was a sweet, smoky masterpiece, featuring tender, shredded chicken coated in KFC’s signature honey BBQ sauce, all packed into a soft sandwich bun. It was a satisfying mix of tangy and savory flavors. Fans of the sandwich were heartbroken when it disappeared from the menu, as it was a reliable option for those looking for a barbecue fix at KFC.
4. Original Recipe Bites
Original Recipe Bites were a hit for those seeking a snackable version of KFC’s famous chicken. These bite-sized pieces were made with KFC’s signature blend of 11 herbs and spices, delivering the same flavor as their larger fried chicken counterparts but in convenient, poppable form. They were perfect for people on the go or those who simply wanted a smaller portion, but sadly, they didn’t last long on the menu.
5. Snacker Sandwiches
KFC’s Snacker Sandwiches were an affordable and tasty option for those seeking a lighter meal or snack. These mini sandwiches featured a crispy chicken fillet topped with lettuce and mayonnaise on a soft bun. They were available in various flavors, such as the classic chicken, honey BBQ, and buffalo. Simple but delicious, the Snacker became a quick go-to for many customers, and its absence is still felt today.
6. Fiery Grilled Wings
For those who preferred their chicken with a little more kick, KFC’s Fiery Grilled Wings were the perfect solution. These wings were marinated and grilled to perfection, packing a spicy punch with every bite. They provided a healthier, non-fried option for spice lovers but were still bursting with flavor. Their discontinuation was a blow to fans looking for a flavorful, low-calorie alternative to KFC’s fried menu items.
7. Colonel’s Crispy Strips
Colonel’s Crispy Strips were a fan favorite for years, offering tender chicken strips with a crunchy, golden-brown coating. These strips were available in a meal or as part of a combo, making them a versatile choice for diners of all ages. Although KFC replaced them with their Extra Crispy Tenders, many fans still miss the original version’s perfect balance of crispy and juicy goodness.
8. Lemonade Chiller
KFC’s Lemonade Chiller was the perfect summer refreshment. This icy, tangy drink was a blend of sweet lemonade and crushed ice, offering a cool, refreshing reprieve from the heat. It quickly became a favorite during warm weather, but its seasonal availability wasn’t enough to keep it on the permanent menu. Fans still reminisce about how the Lemonade Chiller paired perfectly with a crispy chicken meal.
9. Chicken Littles (Original)
While KFC still serves a version of Chicken Littles, fans of the original recipe know it’s just not the same. The old Chicken Littles were simple sandwiches made with a crispy chicken patty, pickles, and mayonnaise on a soft bun. These mini sandwiches had a nostalgic appeal and were a huge hit in the 1980s and 1990s. The newer version has a different recipe, leaving fans of the original Chicken Littles longing for their return.
KFC has continually adapted its menu over the years, but some of the discontinued items left a lasting impression on customers. Whether it was the indulgence of the Double Down or the simplicity of the Snacker Sandwiches, each of these items had its own unique charm. While KFC still offers a variety of delicious options, fans can’t help but wish some of these discontinued favorites would make a comeback.