KFC Potato Wedges: The Ultimate Guide to Their History, Comeback News, and Copycat Recipes

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Introduction: The Iconic KFC Side That Won’t Be Forgotten

KFC potato wedges hold a special place in the hearts of fast-food enthusiasts across America. These thick-cut, seasoned potato wedges were once the perfect companion to the Colonel’s famous fried chicken, offering a satisfying blend of crispy exteriors and fluffy centers that regular fries simply couldn’t match. For decades, these wedges served as KFC’s signature side, creating a loyal following that continues to reminisce about their distinctive flavor profile and hearty texture.

Despite their popularity, KFC made the controversial decision to discontinue potato wedges in 2020, replacing them with Secret Recipe Fries. The move sparked immediate backlash from customers who had grown to love the wedges as an essential part of their KFC experience. Social media erupted with pleas to bring back the beloved side dish, and online petitions gathered thousands of signatures.

In a surprising twist that has wedge enthusiasts cautiously optimistic, KFC has begun testing the return of their potato wedges in select markets in 2025. This development suggests the fast-food giant may be reconsidering one of its most contested menu decisions in recent years. Whether this test indicates a full nationwide comeback remains to be seen, but for potato wedge loyalists, even this limited return offers a glimmer of hope.

Current Status of KFC Potato Wedges (2025 Update)

After years of customer campaigns and social media pleas, KFC has finally responded to the demand for their classic potato wedges. As of March 2025, KFC has launched a limited test of the original potato wedges recipe in select Tampa, Florida locations. This marks the first official return of the beloved side dish since its discontinuation in 2020.

The test phase includes:

• The original recipe potato wedges with the classic seasoning blend
• Limited availability at only 12 locations in the greater Tampa area
• A promotional price of $2.99 for a regular side order
• Options to substitute wedges in any combo meal that includes fries
• A dedicated feedback system for customers to share their experiences

KFC representatives have confirmed this test will run for approximately 90 days, after which the company will evaluate sales data, customer feedback, and operational factors before making any decisions about a potential nationwide rollout.

Industry analysts note that this cautious approach allows KFC to gauge genuine demand without committing to a full supply chain overhaul. The company has remained tight-lipped about specific metrics that would trigger a nationwide return, but the fact that KFC wedges have returned even in this limited capacity has sparked excitement among fans.

The Tampa Test: Where You Can Find KFC Wedges in 2025

The Tampa test market for KFC potato wedges includes 12 carefully selected locations spread throughout Hillsborough and Pinellas counties. These restaurants represent a mix of standalone locations, mall food courts, and combination stores with other Yum! Brands restaurants.

The test locations include stores on Dale Mabry Highway, Fowler Avenue, and Brandon Town Center, covering diverse neighborhoods and customer demographics. KFC chose Tampa for its representative consumer base and established KFC customer loyalty.

Availability began on March 15, 2025, with initial plans to continue through mid-June. Customers outside the Tampa region cannot order the wedges through delivery apps or the KFC website, as the test is strictly limited to in-store purchases within these specific locations.

KFC’s regional management has implemented specialized training for staff at these locations to ensure the wedges meet the exact specifications that made them famous, including the proper double-cooking technique and seasoning application.

Will KFC Potato Wedges Return Nationwide?

While potato wedge enthusiasts are celebrating the Tampa test, the question of a nationwide return remains uncertain. KFC has issued carefully worded statements indicating that customer response will be the primary factor in determining whether kentucky fried chicken potato wedges make a permanent comeback.

“We’re listening to our customers and testing the waters with this limited return,” stated KFC’s Chief Marketing Officer in a recent press release. “The passion for our original wedges has been unmistakable, and we’re eager to see if that translates to sustained demand in our test locations.”

Industry analysts offer mixed predictions. “Fast food chains rarely reverse major menu changes,” notes restaurant industry consultant Maria Thompson. “However, the sustained customer demand for KFC wedges represents an unusual case where nostalgia and genuine product preference might override typical corporate resistance to admitting a misstep.”

The company faces significant operational considerations, including supply chain adjustments, kitchen reconfigurations, and staff training that would be required for a national rollout. These practical challenges, rather than customer demand alone, may ultimately determine whether KFC wedges return to menus across America.

The Rise and Fall of KFC Potato Wedges: A History

KFC potato wedges first appeared on menus nationwide in the mid-1990s, though some regional markets had tested various potato products earlier. The wedges quickly became a signature side item, distinguished by their hearty cut and seasoned exterior that differentiated them from standard fast food fries.

Throughout the late 1990s and 2000s, the wedges gained a devoted following. Their substantial nature made them ideal for dipping in KFC’s signature sauces, and they maintained their texture longer than typical french fries—a significant advantage for takeout and delivery orders. KFC marketing frequently highlighted the wedges as a premium side option, positioning them as a hearty companion to the chain’s famous chicken.

In a move that shocked loyal customers, KFC announced in 2020 that they would be discontinuing the potato wedges nationwide. The company began phasing them out gradually, replacing them with the new Secret Recipe Fries. By June 2020, the transition was complete across U.S. locations, ending a 25-year run for one of the chain’s most distinctive menu items.

The official reasoning behind the discontinuation centered on streamlining operations and introducing a product that would appeal to a broader audience. However, the decision sparked immediate backlash. Social media campaigns, customer complaints, and even formal petitions emerged, with thousands of customers expressing their disappointment. Despite this vocal opposition, KFC maintained its course until the 2025 Tampa test market announcement.

What Replaced KFC Potato Wedges?

When KFC discontinued their wedges in 2020, they introduced Secret Recipe Fries as the replacement side dish. These fries represent a significant departure from the wedge format, featuring a thinner cut more typical of standard fast food fries, though still thicker than competitors like McDonald’s.

Feature	KFC Potato Wedges	Secret Recipe Fries
Cut style	Thick, wedge-shaped	Medium-thick, straight cut
Exterior	Extra crispy, textured	Moderately crispy
Interior	Fluffy, substantial	Less potato filling
Seasoning	Bold, pepper-forward	11 herbs and spices (chicken-inspired)
Cooking method	Double-cooked	Single fry process
Portion weight	4.5 oz (regular)	4 oz (regular)
Dipping compatibility	Excellent sauce holders	Standard dipping experience

KFC marketed the Secret Recipe Fries as being seasoned with the same secret blend of herbs and spices used in their famous chicken. This represented a strategic shift to create brand consistency across their menu items while addressing operational concerns about preparation time for the wedges.

Customer reception to the Secret Recipe Fries has been mixed. While some customers appreciated the more traditional fry format and the familiar KFC seasoning, wedge loyalists consistently maintained that the new fries lacked the substantial texture and satisfying bite of the original wedges. This preference split is part of what ultimately led to the Tampa test market for returning the wedges in 2025.

What Made KFC Potato Wedges Special? The Taste and Experience

KFC potato wedges carved out a distinctive identity in the fast food landscape through their unique preparation method and flavor profile. Unlike standard french fries found at most chains, KFC wedges featured a substantially thicker cut that created a compelling textural contrast between their crispy exterior and fluffy interior.

The wedges began with russet potatoes cut into large, boat-shaped segments roughly four times the size of a standard french fry. This generous proportion allowed them to maintain their structure and temperature longer than thinner cuts, making them ideal for takeout orders. Each wedge featured a golden-brown exterior with visible seasoning specks that hinted at their flavor complexity.

“KFC wedges weren’t just bigger fries—they were a completely different experience,” explains former KFC kitchen manager Derrick Williams. “The double-cooking method created that distinctive crust that could hold up to any sauce, while the interior stayed fluffy and light.”

The sensory experience of KFC wedge fries extended beyond their appearance. Biting into a properly prepared wedge produced an audible crunch followed by a yielding, potato-forward interior. This textural journey, combined with their bold seasoning, created what many customers described as a more satisfying and substantial side than typical fast food offerings.

“I could order wedges as a snack on their own and feel satisfied,” notes food blogger Melissa Chen, who documented the nationwide disappearance of KFC wedges in 2020. “They had a presence that made them feel like a legitimate part of the meal rather than just a side thought.”

The Secret Behind KFC’s Wedge Seasoning

The distinctive flavor profile of KFC potato wedges came from a proprietary seasoning blend that created their signature taste. While the exact formula remains confidential, culinary analysis and insider reports suggest a complex mixture of salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a hint of cayenne for subtle heat.

Unlike KFC’s chicken, which features the famous 11 herbs and spices, the wedge seasoning targeted a complementary but distinct flavor profile. The seasoning adhered to the exterior during the cooking process, creating concentrated pockets of flavor rather than a uniform distribution. This technique allowed the natural potato taste to come through while providing bursts of seasoned intensity.

“The genius of the KFC wedge seasoning was in its balance,” explains culinary scientist Dr. James Morrison. “The salt level was precise enough to enhance the potato’s natural flavors, while the paprika and pepper created dimension without overwhelming. Many copycat recipes miss this balance, going too heavy on individual spices.”

The seasoning application was equally important as the blend itself. After the initial blanching, the wedges received a dusting of the spice mixture before the final frying stage. This two-phase cooking technique allowed the seasoning to integrate with the exterior while developing the characteristic crust that defined authentic KFC wedges.

KFC Potato Wedges Nutrition Facts and Dietary Information

Understanding the nutritional profile of KFC potato wedges helps put this beloved side in perspective for those watching their dietary intake. A regular serving of the original KFC potato wedges (approximately 4.5 ounces) contained:

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	290	–
Total Fat	15g	19%
Saturated Fat	2.5g	13%
Trans Fat	0g	–
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	780mg	34%
Total Carbohydrate	35g	13%
Dietary Fiber	3g	11%
Total Sugars	0g	–
Protein	4g	–

*Based on a 2,000 calorie daily diet

From an allergen perspective, KFC potato wedges were prepared in shared fryers with chicken products, making them unsuitable for those with severe poultry allergies. The wedges contained no dairy or egg ingredients in their base formulation but were fried in vegetable oil that may have contained soybean oil.

For dietary restrictions, KFC wedges were technically plant-based but not prepared in a vegetarian-dedicated environment. They were gluten-free in ingredients but subject to cross-contamination in most locations. The relatively high sodium content (34% of recommended daily intake) made them a consideration for those monitoring salt intake.

The wedges provided approximately 15% of the recommended daily potassium intake, thanks to their potato base, offering one nutritional bright spot among their otherwise indulgent profile. However, like most fried foods, they represented an occasional treat rather than a regular dietary staple.

KFC Potato Wedges vs. Secret Recipe Fries: Nutrition Comparison

When KFC replaced their classic potato wedges with Secret Recipe Fries, the nutritional profile shifted in several notable ways. This comparison helps consumers understand the differences between these two potato options:

Nutrient (Regular Serving)	KFC Potato Wedges	KFC Secret Recipe Fries	Difference
Serving Size	4.5 oz	4 oz	-0.5 oz
Calories	290	320	+30
Total Fat	15g	15g	No change
Saturated Fat	2.5g	2g	-0.5g
Sodium	780mg	1100mg	+320mg
Total Carbohydrate	35g	41g	+6g
Dietary Fiber	3g	3g	No change
Protein	4g	4g	No change

The most significant difference appears in the sodium content, with Secret Recipe Fries containing considerably more salt than the original wedges. This aligns with their marketing as featuring the same seasoning blend as KFC’s famous chicken.

“Despite having similar fat content, the fries actually contain more calories in a smaller serving size,” notes registered dietitian Sarah Martinez. “This is likely due to their different surface-area-to-volume ratio, which affects oil absorption during frying.”

For those monitoring carbohydrate intake, the fries contain about 17% more carbs than the wedges did. Neither option would be considered a low-calorie choice, but the wedges offered a slightly better calorie-to-fullness ratio due to their substantial texture and slightly larger serving size.

How to Make KFC-Style Potato Wedges at Home: The Ultimate Copycat Recipe

For those missing the distinctive taste and texture of KFC potato wedges, this tested copycat recipe recreates the experience in your home kitchen. While no homemade version can perfectly match the commercial product, this recipe captures the essential elements that made KFC potato wedges a fan favorite.

Ingredients:

4 large russet potatoes (about 2½ pounds)
2 cups cold water
2 tablespoons white vinegar
2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
2 large eggs
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions:

Scrub potatoes thoroughly, then cut each potato lengthwise into quarters. Cut each quarter into 2-3 wedges of even thickness, approximately ¾-inch at the widest part.
In a large bowl, combine cold water and vinegar. Add potato wedges and soak for 30 minutes. This removes excess starch and helps achieve a crispy exterior.
Drain potatoes and pat completely dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
Heat oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet to 325°F (use a thermometer for accuracy). Prepare a baking sheet lined with paper towels for draining.
While oil heats, whisk eggs in a medium bowl until frothy. In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne.
Working in batches of 8-10 wedges, dip potatoes in egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Then dredge in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off excess.
Carefully lower coated wedges into hot oil and fry for 5 minutes. The exterior should be lightly golden but not fully browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Increase oil temperature to 350°F. Return partially fried wedges to the hotter oil and fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until deeply golden brown and crispy.
Transfer to fresh paper towels, season with a light sprinkle of additional salt while hot, and serve immediately.

This double-frying method is crucial for achieving the perfect texture combination of crispy exterior and fluffy interior that made the original KFC wedges so distinctive. The initial lower-temperature fry cooks the potato through, while the second higher-temperature fry develops the crispy crust.

The Perfect KFC Wedge Seasoning Blend

Creating an authentic KFC potato wedges experience at home depends greatly on replicating their distinctive seasoning profile. While the exact formula remains proprietary, this meticulously tested blend comes remarkably close to the original:

KFC-Style Wedge Seasoning (Makes about ¼ cup):

1 tablespoon salt
2 teaspoons paprika
1½ teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground preferred)
½ teaspoon dried oregano (crushed fine)
½ teaspoon dried basil (crushed fine)
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon dried thyme (crushed fine)

To use this seasoning most effectively, combine all ingredients in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle and grind to a fine, uniform powder. Store in an airtight container away from heat and light for up to three months.

For the closest match to KFC’s original application method, use this blend in two ways: incorporate half into your flour dredging mixture before frying, then sprinkle the remaining half over the wedges immediately after they come out of the fryer while still hot and glistening with oil. This double application creates both integrated flavor and the visible seasoning specks characteristic of authentic KFC wedges.

For those sensitive to heat, the cayenne can be reduced or eliminated without significantly impacting the overall flavor profile. Conversely, spice enthusiasts might increase the cayenne to ½ teaspoon for a more pronounced kick.

Pro Tips for Crispy Exterior and Fluffy Interior

Achieving restaurant-quality results with homemade KFC potato wedges requires attention to several critical factors. These professional techniques make the difference between mediocre wedges and authentic replicas:

Choose the right potato: Russet potatoes are non-negotiable for authentic KFC-style wedges. Their high starch content creates the fluffy interior while allowing the exterior to crisp properly. Waxy varieties like red or yellow potatoes will never achieve the correct texture contrast.
Master the cold water soak: Soaking cut potatoes for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator) removes excess surface starch. Adding a tablespoon of white vinegar to the soaking water helps maintain the potatoes’ structure during frying.
Ensure complete drying: After soaking, thoroughly pat wedges dry with paper towels. Any residual moisture will cause oil splattering and prevent proper crisping. For best results, allow potatoes to air dry for 10 minutes after patting.
Monitor oil temperature precisely: The double-frying method requires exact temperatures (325°F for the first fry, 350°F for the second). A cooking thermometer is essential, as oil that’s too cool creates soggy wedges while overheated oil burns the exterior before cooking the interior.
Don’t overcrowd the fryer: Fry in small batches, never filling more than one-third of your cooking vessel. Overcrowding drops the oil temperature dramatically and causes uneven cooking.
Rest between frying stages: Allow wedges to rest for 2-3 minutes between the first and second fry. This rest period allows the interior to finish steaming while the exterior sets up for the final crisp.
Season while hot: Apply final seasoning immediately after removing wedges from oil while the surface is still hot and slightly oily, which helps the seasoning adhere properly.

These techniques address the food science principles behind achieving the perfect texture contrast that made KFC wedges distinctive. The first fry at lower temperature gelatinizes the potato starches and cooks the interior, while the second higher-temperature fry rapidly dehydrates the exterior to create the signature crisp shell.

The Fan Response: Campaigns to Bring Back KFC Potato Wedges

Since KFC discontinued their potato wedges in 2020, fans have mounted increasingly organized efforts to convince the chain to reverse course. The response transcended typical consumer grumbling, evolving into coordinated campaigns that demonstrated the profound connection customers had formed with this side dish.

The most substantial petition, hosted on Change.org, has gathered over 75,000 signatures as of early 2025. Titled “Bring Back KFC’s Potato Wedges,” the petition’s comments section reveals the emotional connection many felt toward this menu item. “These weren’t just sides, they were part of my family’s weekly tradition,” wrote one supporter. Another noted, “I’ve literally decreased my KFC visits by 70% since they removed wedges from the menu.”

Social media has amplified these individual voices into a collective movement. The hashtag #BringBackKFCWedges has generated millions of impressions across platforms, with content ranging from nostalgic reminiscences to elaborate homemade recreation attempts. Several TikTok creators gained substantial followings by posting side-by-side comparisons between Secret Recipe Fries and homemade versions of the classic wedges.

Celebrity endorsements have further elevated the movement. When NBA star LeBron James tweeted “Some things shouldn’t change. Missing my postgame KFC wedges right now. #BringBackTheWedges” in 2023, the post received over 200,000 likes and prompted a noncommittal response from KFC’s official account promising to “share the feedback with our team.”

KFC’s March 2025 announcement of the Tampa test market represents the first concrete indication that these sustained campaigns may have influenced corporate decision-making. The company specifically referenced “listening to our passionate customers” in press materials, suggesting the fan movement played a role in this potential revival.

Notable #BringBackTheWedges Social Media Moments

The social media campaign to restore KFC potato wedges has produced several viral moments that kept the movement alive during years without any response from KFC:

In June 2021, food influencer @FastFoodFinds organized a “National KFC Wedges Day” that encouraged followers to share their favorite wedges memories. The coordinated event generated over 50,000 posts in a single day and briefly made the hashtag trend nationally on Twitter.

A December 2022 TikTok by user @CrispyChickenQueen comparing the mouthfeel and dipping capabilities of KFC wedges versus Secret Recipe Fries went viral with 3.7 million views. Her detailed analysis of why wedges were superior for holding sauce resonated with viewers who left over 12,000 comments, most agreeing with her assessment.

The “Empty Fries Box Challenge” in summer 2023 saw customers posting videos of themselves returning empty fries containers to KFC drive-thrus with notes requesting wedges instead. While the stunt drew criticism for creating extra work for employees, it generated significant media coverage that kept the issue in the public eye.

Perhaps most impressively, when KFC posted about an unrelated new menu item in February 2024, fans coordinated to flood the comments with wedge requests. Over 90% of the 15,000+ comments mentioned potato wedges rather than the featured product, demonstrating organized consumer activism rarely seen in fast food marketing.

These social media moments maintained pressure on KFC during the years between discontinuation and the 2025 test market announcement, showing how dedicated customers can potentially influence corporate decision-making through sustained, coordinated efforts.

Best Alternatives to KFC Potato Wedges: Where to Find Similar Options

While KFC’s potato wedges remain in limited test markets, several alternatives offer comparable experiences for those unwilling to wait for a potential nationwide return. These options range from other fast food chains to regional specialties that capture elements of what made KFC wedges distinctive.

Popeyes Cajun Fries represent one of the closest mainstream alternatives, featuring a thicker cut than standard fries and a bold, slightly spicy seasoning profile. While not technically wedges, their substantial texture and seasoning make them a suitable substitute for former KFC wedge enthusiasts.

Church’s Chicken offers true wedge-cut potatoes in many locations. Their thicker cut and seasoned exterior bear the strongest resemblance to KFC’s discontinued offering among major chains, though their seasoning profile leans more toward black pepper than KFC’s more complex blend.

Regional chain Bojangles’ Seasoned Fries, while cut differently, feature a similar seasoning profile and satisfying texture. Available throughout the Southeast, these fries offer the seasoning punch that many miss from KFC wedges, though in a different potato format.

For those seeking the closest match, some Chester’s Chicken locations (often found in convenience stores and travel plazas) offer potato wedges that former KFC employees have noted bear a striking resemblance to the original. Their limited footprint makes them harder to find but worth seeking out for wedge purists.

Does KFC have fries now? Yes, they’ve replaced wedges with Secret Recipe Fries nationwide (except in test markets), but many customers find these thinner fries fundamentally different from the hearty wedges they replaced, driving the search for alternatives that better capture the original wedge experience.

Local independent chicken shops often offer their own versions of seasoned potato wedges worth exploring. Without corporate standardization, these can vary widely in quality, but many regional favorites have developed devoted followings for their unique take on this side dish format.

Regional Potato Wedge Specialties Across America

America’s diverse regional food cultures have produced several distinctive takes on potato wedges that offer unique alternatives to KFC’s version. These regional specialties each bring their own character to the basic concept of seasoned, thick-cut potatoes.

In the Pacific Northwest, “jojos” reign supreme. These potato wedges are typically pressure-fried (often in the same oil as chicken) and feature a distinctively thick, seasoned breading. Popular at local chicken establishments and even some grocery store deli counters throughout Oregon and Washington, jojos are generally heftier than KFC wedges were, with an even more substantial crust. Locals often pair them with ranch dressing or hot sauce.

The Midwest offers “potato wedges” or “potato logs” at many local chicken and fish establishments, particularly in Illinois and Missouri. These regional variants typically feature a cornmeal component in their coating, creating a distinctive crunch different from KFC’s more flour-based approach. The seasoning often includes more pepper and sometimes a touch of cayenne for heat.

Southern states have their own tradition of “potato logs” or “spicy potatoes,” especially prevalent in Georgia and the Carolinas. These thick-cut wedges often incorporate a buttermilk soak before breading and frying, resulting in a tangy undertone that complements their typically spicier seasoning profile.

In the Southwest, particularly New Mexico and parts of Arizona, you’ll find “chile wedges” that incorporate regional chile powder into the seasoning blend. These offer a distinctive earthy heat that sets them apart from other regional variants while maintaining the satisfying texture contrast that makes wedge-cut potatoes appealing.

These regional specialties demonstrate how the basic concept of KFC wedge fries has been adapted and evolved across different American culinary traditions, often reflecting local tastes and ingredient preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions About KFC Potato Wedges

When did KFC discontinue potato wedges?
KFC began phasing out potato wedges in early 2020, with the nationwide discontinuation complete by June 2020. They were replaced with Secret Recipe Fries as part of a menu simplification initiative.

Why did KFC stop selling potato wedges?
According to official statements, KFC discontinued wedges to streamline kitchen operations and introduce a product (Secret Recipe Fries) that would appeal to a broader customer base. Industry analysts have suggested the change also reduced preparation time and potentially lowered food costs.

What is the difference between KFC potato wedges and Secret Recipe Fries?
KFC potato wedges featured a thick, wedge-shaped cut with a distinctive seasoned coating and were prepared using a double-cooking method for texture contrast. Secret Recipe Fries are thinner, straight-cut fries seasoned with a blend similar to KFC’s chicken coating. The wedges had a more substantial bite and different seasoning profile than the current fries.

How many calories were in KFC potato wedges?
A regular serving of KFC potato wedges contained approximately 290 calories, with 15 grams of fat and 780 mg of sodium. This made them slightly lower in calories than the Secret Recipe Fries that replaced them, which contain 320 calories per regular serving.

Were KFC potato wedges vegan?
While KFC potato wedges contained no animal ingredients in their formula, they were fried in the same oil as KFC’s chicken products, making them unsuitable for strict vegans due to cross-contamination concerns. The ingredients themselves were plant-based.

Did KFC wedges contain allergens?
KFC wedges contained wheat and soy allergens. Additionally, due to shared preparation areas and fryers, they may have come in contact with eggs, milk, and poultry allergens. People with severe allergies were advised to exercise caution.

How can I find out if my local KFC has potato wedges?
Currently, KFC potato wedges are only available in the 12 test locations in Tampa, Florida. You can call your local KFC directly to confirm their current menu offerings, as the test may expand to additional markets if successful. The KFC app and website will not show wedges as an option unless your selected location is part of the test market.

When Will KFC Potato Wedges Return Permanently?

KFC has not announced any timeline for a potential nationwide return of potato wedges. The current test in Tampa, which began in March 2025, is scheduled to run for approximately 90 days, after which the company will evaluate results before making further decisions.

Industry analysts suggest several factors will influence whether kentucky fried chicken potato wedges make a permanent comeback. “Quick service restaurants typically need to see at least a 15-20% sales lift in test markets to justify a major menu addition,” explains restaurant consultant Michael Rodriguez. “Beyond sales numbers, they’ll be looking at operational factors like preparation time and food costs compared to their current fries.”

KFC’s parent company, Yum! Brands, typically follows a multi-phase testing approach before nationwide rollouts. If the Tampa test proves successful, we might expect a second phase expanding to 50-100 locations across multiple regions, likely in late 2025 or early 2026. A full nationwide return, if approved, would likely take an additional 6-12 months to implement across all 4,000+ U.S. locations due to supply chain and training requirements.

The company has been careful to manage expectations, with their official statement noting, “We’re excited to bring back this fan favorite for a limited test that will help inform future menu decisions.” This carefully worded position gives them flexibility regardless of the test results.

Can I Special Order Potato Wedges at KFC?

Unfortunately, special ordering KFC potato wedges at locations outside the Tampa test market is not possible. Unlike some menu modifications that involve omitting ingredients or substituting existing items, potato wedges require specific ingredients, preparation methods, and equipment that are simply not available at standard KFC locations in 2025.

Former KFC shift supervisor Marcus Johnson explains: “Even if a location wanted to accommodate these requests, they physically couldn’t. The preparation stations are configured differently now, the specific seasoning blend isn’t stocked, and staff aren’t trained on the proper cooking technique that made wedges distinctive.”

Some customers have reported success asking for “extra crispy fries” at certain locations, which may result in a longer frying time that creates a somewhat firmer texture, though this falls far short of replicating true potato wedges. This modification depends entirely on individual location policies and staff discretion.

Your best options for experiencing something similar to KFC wedges are to:

Visit one of the Tampa test locations if possible
Try one of the regional alternatives mentioned earlier in this article
Make your own using our copycat recipe
Continue supporting #BringBackKFCWedges campaigns to encourage a wider return

KFC’s customer service representatives have confirmed that they do track the number of queries about discontinued menu items, so politely asking about wedges when you visit may indirectly support the case for their return.

Conclusion: The Legacy of KFC Potato Wedges in Fast Food Culture

KFC potato wedges have transcended their status as a simple side dish to become a cultural touchpoint for fast food enthusiasts. Their discontinuation in 2020 and potential limited return in 2025 illustrate how deeply certain menu items can integrate into American food culture and consumer identity. Few fast food items have generated the sustained, passionate response that followed the wedges’ removal from KFC’s menu.

The wedges represent something increasingly rare in standardized fast food: distinctiveness. In a landscape where french fries have become remarkably similar across chains, KFC’s potato wedges offered a truly unique texture, flavor profile, and eating experience. Their substantial nature, seasoning complexity, and perfect compatibility with KFC’s primary chicken products created a synergy that many customers continue to miss.

The 2025 Tampa test market signals that major fast food corporations may be becoming more responsive to sustained customer feedback in the social media age. Whether this test leads to a nationwide return remains to be seen, but it demonstrates how passionate advocacy can occasionally influence corporate decision-making in the highly competitive quick-service restaurant industry.

For now, wedge enthusiasts can take heart in the limited return, explore regional alternatives, perfect homemade versions, or continue advocating for nationwide availability. The story of KFC potato wedges serves as a reminder that in fast food, as in many aspects of consumer culture, sometimes the most beloved classics earn a second chance through the dedicated passion of their fans.

About the Author & KFC Menu Expert Notes

This comprehensive guide was researched and written by Alex Morgan, a food industry analyst with over a decade of experience covering quick-service restaurant trends and menu developments. Morgan has documented fast food menu changes across major American chains since 2013, with particular focus on regional variations and discontinued favorites.

The information presented here combines verified corporate announcements, nutritional data from official sources, interviews with former KFC staff, and careful analysis of customer response across social media platforms. All copycat recipes have been tested in standard home kitchens to ensure reproducibility for the average cook.

As an independent resource, KFC Menu provides this information to help consumers make informed choices and understand the evolving KFC menu landscape. All assertions about the 2025 Tampa test market have been verified through multiple sources, though specific details about future expansion plans remain speculative based on industry standard practices.

This guide will be updated as new information becomes available about the potential nationwide return of KFC potato wedges. For the most current status, we recommend checking directly with your local KFC location.

References and Further Reading

KFC Official Website. (2025). Secret Recipe Fries Nutrition Information. Retrieved from www.kfc.com/menu/sides/secret-recipe-fries

Tampa Bay Business Journal. (2025, March). KFC Tests Return of Fan-Favorite Side in Tampa Locations. Retrieved from www.bizjournals.com/tampabay

Food & Wine Magazine. (2020, June). KFC Has Replaced Its Iconic Potato Wedges with New ‘Secret Recipe’ Fries. Retrieved from www.foodandwine.com

QSR Magazine. (2024, December). The Power of Customer Advocacy: How Social Media Campaigns Influence Fast Food Menus. Retrieved from www.qsrmagazine.com

Journal of Food Science. (2023). Texture Development in Fried Potato Products: Effect of Cutting Style and Cooking Methods. Vol. 88, Issue. 4, pp. 1245-1258.

Rodriguez, M. (2025). Fast Food Nation: Menu Evolution and Customer Loyalty in the Digital Age. Chicago: University Press.

Change.org. (2025). Petition: Bring Back KFC’s Potato Wedges. Retrieved from www.change.org