KFC is taking a different approach to the new year by rejecting rigid dietary restrictions in favor of affordable, hearty comfort food. As January brings colder weather and rising lunch costs, the brand is focusing on “intentional indulgence” to help guests find balance without compromising their budgets.
Reclaiming the Lunch Hour with $5 Bowls
To address the fact that many Americans find current lunch prices unaffordable, KFC has introduced a lineup of five $5 Bowls. This value-driven menu is headlined by a special culinary collaboration with chef and cultural icon Matty Matheson.
Matty’s Cheesy Nuggy Gravy Bowl serves as KFC’s unique take on poutine, featuring fries, brown gravy, crispy chicken nuggets, and coated cheese curds. “It’s the kind of food you crave and can’t stop thinking about,” said Matheson.
The full $5 Bowl lineup includes:
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Matty’s Cheesy Nuggy Gravy Bowl: Fries, gravy, nuggets, and cheese curds.
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Mac & Cheese Bowl: Homestyle mac and cheese with nuggets and a three-cheese blend.
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Mashed Potato Bowl: Mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, nuggets, and cheese.
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Spicy Mac & Cheese Bowl: The classic mac and cheese bowl with a spicy kick.
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Spicy Mashed Potato Bowl: Mashed potatoes and nuggets finished with Nashville Hot Sauce.
Beating “Quitters Day” with $10 Tuesdays
Recognizing that many New Year’s resolutions—specifically rigid meal-prepping—often fade by the second week of January, KFC is offering a sustainable alternative. The brand is bringing back $10 Tuesdays, featuring an eight-piece bucket of dark meat or tenders for just $10.
This weekly deal provides a protein-packed solution for those tired of the repetition and time commitment of home meal prep, offering a high-value ritual that is easy to maintain throughout the year.
The Rise of “Colonel Core”
In a nod to current Western-inspired fashion trends and the heritage of Colonel Sanders, KFC is also venturing into apparel with the Bowl-o-Tie. This playful, bowl-shaped twist on the classic bolo tie will be available for purchase soon via an exclusive drop on social media.
“2026 will certainly be the year of balance,” said Melissa Cash, KFC U.S. CMO. “KFC has something for everyone to keep the focus on what matters most: you and the balance you deserve.”
Guests can explore the full value lineup and prepare for the Bowl-o-Tie drop by visiting the KFC app or following the brand on social media.