19 Must-Try KFC Menu Hacks: The Ultimate Guide for Smart Eaters

Who doesn’t love KFC? Crispy chicken, mouthwatering sides, and finger-lickin’ good flavors! But here’s the thing: did you know secret hacks can level up your KFC experience and save money? Yup, you can outsmart the menu with some clever tips and tricks!

In this guide, I will reveal the ultimate list of KFC hacks that’ll make you feel like a deal-hacking pro. Get ready to unlock all the secrets, from custom orders to insider menu items. Let’s dive in!

In this post, you’ll learn:

• How to build your own KFC combo and save
• Tricks for scoring more food for less
• Menu items you didn’t know you could order
• How to take advantage of special deals, rewards, and more

1. Create Your Own Combo (And Save Big)

KFC’s combo meals are great, but have you noticed they’re not always the best value? Sometimes, it’s cheaper to DIY your combo. Here’s how:

• Order individual pieces of chicken rather than a combo box. The cost of two to three pieces can sometimes be less than a full meal.
• Skip the drink. Fast-food restaurants mark up drinks. You can easily cut costs by asking for a cup of water or bringing your drink!
• Substitute your sides. Did you know you can swap sides for more filling options, like mac & cheese or coleslaw? Adding a side of fries can sometimes be cheaper than upgrading your combo meal.

Pro Tip: If you’re with a friend, splitting a larger meal, like a family-sized bucket, will almost always be a better value than ordering two meals.

2. Use the KFC App for Secret Menu Items

Like other fast-food chains, KFC has a secret menu. What is the best part? It’s hiding in plain sight, right in the KFC app! From time to time, the app drops exclusive, limited-time offers that you won’t find anywhere else.

Secret Menu Items Include:

• Chicken Littles: Mini sandwiches packed with flavor but lighter on the wallet.
• Extra Crispy Chicken Tenders: A twist on the classic, but crunchier!
• Double Down: Yup, it’s back on the secret menu and more indulgent than ever: two pieces of fried chicken instead of bread.

Not only do you unlock secret items, but you can also snag exclusive coupons just by using the app. So, if you’re not downloading the app, you’re missing out on free food and unbeatable deals.

3. Hack the Family Meals

This one’s a personal favorite. KFC’s family meals aren’t just for families. You can use them to stretch your budget to the max, even if you’re eating solo or with a friend.

Here’s a trick: Order a family-sized bucket and sides, then save the leftovers for later. It’s cheaper than ordering multiple meals; you can mix and match the pieces you want. Plus, you’ll have plenty for tomorrow’s lunch.

Family Bucket	Includes	Price
8-piece bucket	Chicken + 2 sides	$20.99
12-piece bucket	Chicken + 3 sides	$27.99
16-piece bucket	Chicken + 4 sides	$36.99

Money-Saving Tip: Look for coupon deals and promotions allowing you to upgrade your sides or drinks for free, making the family meal an even better bargain.

4. Score More Chicken with the “Add a Piece” Trick

You’ve ordered your meal, but that one extra piece of chicken would hit the spot. Guess what? You can add a piece of chicken to almost any meal for just a couple of dollars. It’s easy to stretch your meal without paying for a whole second order.

How to Add:

• Ask politely at the counter or in the app if you can add a piece of chicken to your meal.
• The cost is usually minimal, around $1.49 – $2.49, depending on your location.

Pro Tip: Adding an extra piece of chicken is especially useful if you’re splitting a combo meal and just want that little extra without overordering.

5. Mix-and-Match Sides for the Ultimate Meal

Sides are the unsung heroes of any KFC meal. Instead of sticking with the default options, mix and match to get the best bang for your buck.

• Upgrade your fries to KFC’s secret-recipe fries for just a small upcharge.
• Swap your biscuit for mashed potatoes and gravy, a filling option that will keep you satisfied longer.
• Combine sides for a complete meal: Pair mac & cheese with a side of mashed potatoes to turn your meal into a comfort food feast.

Fun Hack: You can combine sure sides to make your custom bowl, like the famous KFC Famous Bowl, but with your choice of fillings.

6. Order Lunch at Dinner for the Best Deals

This might sound counterintuitive, but here’s a clever hack: Order from KFC’s lunch menu during dinner hours. Many KFC locations offer special lunch deals with smaller portions and lower prices, but the kicker is that they often serve them even after lunch hours. You can save your meal by asking if the lunch menu is still available!

How to do it:

• Call ahead or ask if the lunch specials are still served at the counter. Sometimes, especially during slower times, you’ll find locations extending the lunch deals into dinner hours.
• If they don’t offer the lunch menu after a particular time, combo meals or smaller bucket sizes can be your next best option.

Insider Tip: Some locations have “off-menu lunch specials” that only regulars know about. It doesn’t hurt to ask!

7. Take Advantage of “Chicken Tuesdays”

Few people know this, but KFC Tuesdays are among the best days to grab a deal. Many KFC locations run a “Chicken Tuesday” promotion, where you can snag discounted buckets or extra chicken pieces for a fraction of the regular price.

Examples of Chicken Tuesday Deals:

• $2 for 2 pieces: Two chicken pieces for just $2! (Varies by location)
• $10 bucket specials: A bucket of chicken for only $10, typically offered as part of a Chicken Tuesday promotion.

It’s a simple yet effective way to load up on your KFC favorites without burning a hole in your wallet. Check your local KFC’s promotions page or app notifications to catch these deals.

Pro Tip: Chicken Tuesday is the perfect time to stock up. Buy a more significant portion, enjoy your meal, and save the rest for later!

8. Hack the KFC Famous Bowl for More Value

The KFC Famous Bowl is a fan favorite because it’s a meal! But what if I told you there’s a way to get more for less? Here’s how to hack your bowl to make it even better:

• Double the gravy: You can usually ask for extra gravy at no additional cost, which enhances the entire bowl.
• Add a side of fries: Instead of ordering a full meal, get a Famous Bowl plus a small side of fries for less than the price of a regular combo meal.
• Customize your toppings: Want more cheese? How about an extra scoop of corn? Many KFC locations let you add more toppings for little to no additional cost. Just ask!

Expert Tip: For true KFC fans, you can sometimes substitute the mashed potatoes for mac and cheese. This isn’t on the menu, but they’ll make the swap depending on your location.

9. Maximize Savings with KFC’s Rewards Program

One of the best ways to score free food and get discounts is by signing up for the KFC Rewards program. The program is simple: earn points with every purchase, which you can redeem for free items or discounts on future orders.

Here’s why you should join:

• Free food after your first order: Many locations offer a free side or dessert just for signing up.
• Exclusive discounts: As a member, you’ll have access to coupons and promotions unavailable to the general public.
• Earn points faster: For frequent KFC customers, this is a no-brainer. Every dollar you spend earns you points, and it adds up fast.

Pro Tip: Combine your points with coupon deals for double the savings!

10. Request Freshly Cooked Chicken

This is a little-known secret, but you can request freshly cooked chicken at KFC. Rather than accepting the pre-prepared items sitting under the heat lamp, politely ask for your order to be cooked fresh. You might have to wait a few minutes longer, but trust me, it’s worth it!

Why it matters: Fresher chicken means hotter, crispier bites with better texture. Plus, if you’re ordering for a large group, everyone will appreciate that just-cooked freshness.

Insider Tip: This works exceptionally well when ordering a larger meal or a bucket. Fresh chicken = happier taste buds!

11. Go for Grilled Chicken to Save on Calories

KFC may be famous for its fried chicken, but they also offer a grilled option for those looking to enjoy a healthier meal. Grilled chicken is lower in calories and fat than the classic fried variety, making it a great choice if you watch your waistline without giving up on flavor.

Grilled Chicken Nutritional Benefits:

• Fewer calories: A piece of grilled chicken at KFC contains roughly 220 calories, while the original recipe piece packs over 300.
• Lower in fat: Grilled chicken weighs about 7 grams per piece, whereas the fried version contains over 20 grams.
• High in protein: Both options are high in protein, but grilled chicken gives you the protein boost without the extra grease.

Healthier Swap Hack: Next time you’re at KFC, swap out a couple of pieces of fried chicken for grilled to enjoy the same great taste with a fraction of the guilt.

12. Use KFC’s Catering Menu for Large Orders (And Save Time)

Planning a party, event, or family gathering? Instead of ordering individual meals, try tapping into KFC’s catering menu for a better deal on large orders. This isn’t widely advertised at many locations, but most KFCs offer catering packages that provide more food for less. You can feed a crowd without the headache of overpaying for individual items.

Catering Options Include:

• 50-Piece Chicken Bucket: Perfect for large gatherings (and significant savings).
• Sides in bulk: You can order large servings of mashed potatoes, gravy, mac & cheese, and more.

By going the catering route, you’ll save money and reduce the hassle of placing multiple orders. Plus, everyone loves KFC at a party, right?

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask for extra sauces or utensils. They’re often included for free with catering orders!

13. Get Creative with Your Leftovers

One of the best things about KFC is that it reheats beautifully. If you’ve ordered a bucket or have leftover chicken, you can get creative with using the next-day food.

Here are a few ways to repurpose your KFC leftovers:

• Chicken Salad: Shred your leftover chicken and toss it with some lettuce, veggies, and dressing for an easy chicken salad.
• Chicken Tacos: Use leftover fried or grilled chicken to make quick and delicious tacos. Add your favorite toppings and wrap it all in a tortilla.
• Chicken Alfredo: Mix the leftover chicken into a creamy Alfredo sauce to pair with pasta.

Leftover Hack: Reheat your KFC chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore its crispy texture without drying it out.

14. Split the Meals for Kids (or Light Eaters)

Don’t overpay for full meals if you’re ordering for kids or someone who prefers smaller portions. You can split one KFC meal into two smaller portions and save some cash.

Meal-Splitting Ideas:

• 1 combo, 2 kids: One KFC combo meal can often be more than enough to feed two young children. Split the chicken and sides between two plates.
• Add a few extra sides: If you’re splitting meals, order a couple of extra sides, like mashed potatoes or corn, for just a dollar or two to round out the meal.

Money-Saving Hack: Instead of ordering separate kids’ meals, which often come with smaller portions, order a regular meal and divide it between two. It’s much more economical!

15. Check the KFC Website for Limited-Time Deals

Regularly check the KFC website to stay ahead of the game and score the best offers. KFC often posts limited-time promotions that are unavailable in-store or on the app. These can range from discounts on family-sized meals to buy-one-get-one-free offers.

Some Common Limited-Time Offers Include:

• $5 Fill-Up Boxes: These are a fan favorite and frequently rotate through different menu options.
• BOGO Chicken Deals: From time to time, you’ll find buy-one-get-one-free deals on specific chicken buckets or tenders.

These deals usually don’t last long, so it pays to be quick and keep your eyes on the prize.

Tip: Sign up for the KFC email newsletter to receive notifications about these promotions so you don’t miss out.

16. Ask for Extra Sauces for Free

This might be one of the easiest yet most underrated KFC hacks: Ask for extra sauces! Whether you love their classic Honey BBQ, the tangy Buttermilk Ranch, or the spicy kick of Nashville Hot Sauce, most KFC locations will give you extra sauces at no additional cost if you simply ask.

Why This Hack Rocks:

• More flavor: Having an extra dipping sauce on hand can take your meal to the next level. It’s especially great for dipping your fries, biscuits, or chicken into something new.
• No extra charge: Many fast food chains limit the number of sauces or charge for additional, but KFC tends to be more lenient. If you ask nicely, you can usually score a few more packets for free.

Pro Tip: If ordering online or through the KFC app, look for an option to add sauces to your order. Some locations let you select multiple sauce packets for no additional cost.

17. Go Vegetarian (Sort Of) with KFC Sides

While KFC may be famous for its fried chicken, they have some stellar vegetarian sides that can make for a satisfying meal on their own if you’re in the mood for something lighter or meat-free. You can order a combination of sides to create your mini feast.

Popular Vegetarian Sides Include:

• Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
• Mac & Cheese
• Corn on the Cob
• Cole Slaw
• Green Beans
• Biscuits (with honey or butter for extra flavor)

Vegetarian Hack: You can make your own “KFC Vegetarian Bowl” by combining mac & cheese, mashed potatoes, and a veggie side for a hearty meal without the meat.

18. Use the KFC Bucket Hack for Large Groups

The KFC Bucket Hack is your best bet if you’re feeding a large group or just want to meal prep for the week. Ordering a large bucket of chicken is significantly cheaper per piece than ordering individual meals.

How to Maximize the Bucket Hack:

• Order a bigger bucket: If you’re already planning on getting a meal, upgrading to a more giant bucket (like a 16-piece instead of an 8-piece) typically only costs a few more dollars, but it gives you double the chicken.
• Split it up for multiple meals: If you’re dining solo or as a couple, use the bucket hack to portion out meals over the next few days. Pair it with some sides or make sandwiches from the leftover chicken.

Pro Tip: You can usually freeze leftover chicken from the bucket for future meals. When ready, simply reheat it in the oven, and it’ll be as crispy!

19. Get Discounted Gift Cards for KFC

Looking for an easy way to save on every single visit? Discounted gift cards are the way to go. Several online platforms, such as Raise or Gift Card Granny, offer KFC gift cards at a reduced rate. You can sometimes score gift cards with a 10-15% discount, which means you’re automatically saving before you even place your order.

How It Works:

1. Purchase a discounted KFC gift card from a reputable gift card reseller.
2. Use the gift card to pay for your meal, like cash or credit.
3. Enjoy instant savings, whether you’re ordering online, in-store, or through the app.

Bonus Hack: Combine your discounted gift card with other promotions, like Chicken Tuesday or coupon deals, to maximize your savings!

Best KFC Menu Hacks and Savings

KFC Hack	Description	Estimated Savings
Create Your Own Combo	Build your own meal by ordering individual pieces and sides instead of a combo.	Save up to $3-$5 per meal
KFC App Secret Menu	Unlock hidden menu items and exclusive deals through the KFC app.	Access limited-time deals
Family Bucket Hack	Order family-sized buckets and save for later meals.	Save $5-$10 per bucket
Add Extra Chicken	Add an extra piece of chicken to your meal for a small fee.	More food for as low as $1.49
Chicken Tuesdays	Take advantage of KFC’s Tuesday deals for discounted chicken.	Save up to 50%
KFC Rewards Program	Sign up for the rewards program to earn points for free food and exclusive offers.	Earn free food and discounts
Use Discounted Gift Cards	Purchase KFC gift cards at a discount from third-party sites like Raise or Gift Card Granny.	Save 10-15% on every meal
Free Sides with Surveys	Complete KFC’s online surveys for free side items or discounts on future orders.	Get free sides with feedback
Mix-and-Match Vegetarian Sides	Create your own vegetarian meal by combining various KFC sides.	Customizable meal options for $3-$5
Lunch Menu at Dinner	Ask if lunch deals are available during dinner hours for cheaper meals.	Order family-sized buckets and save them for later meals.

Conclusion

With these KFC menu hacks, you can save money, enjoy custom meals, and unlock hidden deals every time you visit. These tips, from DIY combos to secret menu items and rewards programs, help you get the most out of your KFC experience. So next time you crave that crispy chicken, use these tricks to leave with a full stomach and a fuller wallet. Happy hacking, and enjoy your finger-lickin’s good savings!

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