Fried chicken lovers know there’s no shortage of choices out there.

But while some big names continue to dominate the spotlight, a quieter player is gaining serious attention.

It’s not a new name, but rather a bold twist from a familiar brand.

And now, it’s gearing up for a nationwide push that has food fans watching closely.



In an effort to regain momentum after closing over 250 US stores in the past two years, a well-known chicken chain is turning to a new concept that’s already performing well above expectations.

Launched in late 2024, Saucy is a spin-off restaurant developed by KFC, aimed at capturing younger customers and standing out in a crowded market.

The restaurant offers a streamlined menu focused on crispy chicken tenders and an exclusive lineup of 11 sauces—most of which aren’t available at regular KFC locations.

According to KFC CEO David Gibbs, Saucy locations are delivering more than double the sales of the average US KFC restaurant.


The reaction has been overwhelmingly positive.

Foodies are praising Saucy for its customizable experience—letting customers choose from sauces like tangy Korean BBQ, zesty garlic parmesan, or Nashville hot.

This new flavor-first approach has won over many fans who say the tenders are not only crispier but also juicier and more satisfying than the competition.

The buzz has led KFC to announce that at least 20 new Saucy locations are in the works.

Though exact locations have not been shared yet, Gibbs confirmed the rollout would prioritize areas where existing infrastructure can help boost visibility.

He explained the goal is to “unlock marketing synergies through geographic proximity,” suggesting that KFC strongholds could soon see a Saucy open nearby.



Also read: Fast food shakeup: A popular sandwich chain faces bankruptcy

If you live near an existing KFC, there’s a good chance you might be first in line when one of the new Saucy restaurants opens.

The timing of this rollout comes as fast-food competition continues to intensify, especially in the value and convenience space.

Gibbs acknowledged that other chains are already seeing traffic gains by offering broader relevance and strong value meal options.

That’s where KFC is also stepping up—with new offerings beyond just Saucy.

Recently, KFC partnered with Mike’s Hot Honey to create a limited-time flavor addition that’s already turning heads.

The hot honey-drizzled tenders offer a sweet and spicy twist that fans are calling “crispy, juicy, salty, spicy, sweet”—or as the company describes it, “food alchemy that’s meant to be.”



Alongside this, KFC has introduced the $25 Fan Favorites Box, which includes:

• Four pieces of bone-in chicken with hot honey,
• A 12-piece order of nuggets,
• Secret Recipe fries,
• Four biscuits,
• Four sauces of your choice.

KFC is also making moves to improve in-store experiences.

Over 1,000 locations will soon be equipped with self-order kiosks, and a new staff app is being launched to improve back-of-house operations.

These upgrades aim to reduce wait times, improve service speed, and make dining at KFC more convenient than ever.

Read next: Ready, get set, go, KFC fans! A classic favorite is here again (for now).
Have you seen a new Saucy location open near you? Tried the hot honey chicken or one of the new combo boxes? Think this chain really does beat Popeyes? Share your take in the comments—we’d love to hear your fried chicken stories!