KFC Launches Plant-Based Beyond Fried Chicken

Starting August 27, Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) will introduce plant-based Beyond Fried Chicken at one test restaurant located on Cobb Parkway, in Atlanta, GA. The new option will feature chicken made by vegan brand Beyond Meat in two styles: as nuggets served with a choice of dipping sauce (the Sweet N Tangy is vegan-friendly) and as boneless wings tossed in Nashville Hot, Buffalo, or Honey BBQ sauces (none of which are vegan-friendly). “KFC Beyond Fried Chicken is so delicious, our customers will find it difficult to tell that it’s plant-based,” Kevin Hochman, president and chief concept officer for KFC United States, said. “I think we’ve all heard ‘it tastes like chicken’—well our customers are going to be amazed and say, ‘it tastes like Kentucky Fried Chicken.’” Customers can order the Beyond Fried Chicken nuggets as part of a six- or 12-piece combo meal (which includes a side and a medium drink) for $6.49 and $8.49, respectively, or four pieces à la carte for $1.99, while the Beyond Fried Chicken wings can be ordered in six or 12-piece options for $6 and $12 plus tax. “KFC is an iconic part of American culture and a brand that I, like so many consumers, grew up with,” Beyond Meat CEO and founder Ethan Brown said. “To be able to bring Beyond Fried Chicken, in all of its KFC-inspired deliciousness to market, speaks to our collective ability to meet the consumer where they are and accompany them on their journey. My only regret is not being able to see the legendary Colonel himself enjoy this important moment.” KFC will consider a national rollout of the new item based on feedback from the Atlanta test restaurant—where customers can sample the Beyond Fried Chicken for free tomorrow with the purchase of another menu item.