Kentucky Fried Chicken, better known as KFC, has been a fast-food favourite since 1952, thanks to its signature blend of herbs and spices. With nearly 27,000 locations across 150 countries, it’s no surprise KFC topped a 2022 Business Financing analysis as the world’s most popular fast-food brand, beating out McDonald’s. But even dedicated enthusiasts can make decisions that result in a less enjoyable meal or increased expense. Below are 13 universal faux pas to avoid, filled with insider information from KFC employees and customers, to ensure your next trip in Columbus, GA, or elsewhere is absolutely unforgettable.
1. Omitting Mashed Potatoes and Bacon Add-Ons
KFC’s mashed potatoes and gravy are a comfort food staple, but too many others view them as a mere side item. You can elevate your meal by adding a scoop to a chicken sandwich or pot pie just ask the staff to treat it that way. Bacon, which is more often found in KFC kitchens than not, is another winner. Add it to wraps, sandwiches, or bowls for a smoky, savory kick. These minor adjustments have the power to make a good dinner into an excellent one.
2. Having Ice in Your Drink
A cold beverage seems like a requirement, but ice in KFC is a roll of the dice. A former KFC worker posted on TikTok that ice tends to sit for hours in uncovered coolers on slow days, potentially causing contamination. A 2017 BBC Watchdog investigation discovered bacteria in ice at certain fast-food restaurants, and a 2016 BBC investigation raised similar concerns at a KFC. Ask for your drink without ice to receive a cleaner, more full drink and improved value.
3. Ordering Sides or Entrees Solo
Taking only a chicken leg or side such as mac and cheese may appear to be an affordable, quick choice, but it ends up costing more than expected. A single side costs over $3, while meal deals reduce it to less than $2. Opting for a combo meal packages your entree and sides into one, so you get more for less and are more fulfilled.
4. Skipped Local Menu Specials
KFC adapts its menu to the region’s flavor, with surprise items you won’t find elsewhere. In certain U.S. locations, you can enjoy fried livers or gizzards, which are fan favourites for their strong taste. Abroad, menus only get crazier behold, shrimp burgers in China or a “Chizza” (pizza toppings on chicken) in Asia. Look on your local KFC’s menu to try unique dishes and mix things up with your order.
5. Sticking to Standard Orders
KFC’s menu lends itself beautifully to hacks, but people mostly play it by the book. One favourite trick is peeling the crispy skin off a drumstick, wrapping it around fries, and dipping it in mashed potatoes and gravy for a taste explosion. You can also assemble a Double Down chicken patties instead of buns by ordering each piece separately. Secret menu dishes such as poutine (fries topped with gravy and cheese curds) allow for additional customization. Don’t hesitate to try new things.
6. Ignoring KFC/Taco Bell Combo Locations
If you happen to have a KFC/Taco Bell combo place close to where you live, you’re in luck. Both restaurants are available there, and you can cross-use them. Experiment with putting Taco Bell’s sour cream on KFC potato wedges or shredded cheese on a Famous Bowl. It’s a never-ending list of possibilities that makes your meal more enjoyable and suited to your preferences.
7. Not Considering Secret Menu Items
KFC’s secret menu is an untold treasure for bold diners. The fan favourite is the Poutine, crispy fries topped with gravy and cheese curds. You can also order up a custom bowl filled with layers of mashed potatoes, chicken, and more. For those with large appetites, the Triple Down is a third chicken patty on top of the Double Down, topped with bacon and sauce. These off-menu entries allow you to customize your meal in new ways.
8. Not Using the KFC App
The KFC app is a must for frequent visitors, but many skip it, thinking the drive-thru is enough. The app lets you reorder favorites with one tap, pick up ASAP or schedule later, and track your order’s progress. It also offers deals like a free chicken sandwich with a $12 purchase or 50% off a Famous Bowl. Download it to save time and money.
9. Ordering Delivery During Busy Hours
Delivery from Uber Eats or DoorDash is convenient, but ordering during busy times can result in delays and soggy chicken. The crunch KFC has built its brand on diminishes if food sits for too long. For the freshest meal possible, go to the restaurant yourself, especially on busy days, to get that perfect crunch.
10. Throwing Away Your Receipt
Don’t throw away your KFC receipt it’s usually your key to deals. A lot of them have a survey link on the bottom, and filling it out within 48 hours will get you deals or free stuff, such as 15% off or a free sandwich. Reuse the cycle: use the coupon, acquire a new receipt, and do it again for continuous deals.
11. Selecting Low-Value Sides
Not all KFC sides are money-worthy. Daily Meal put corn at the bottom, which tastes like warmed-up frozen kernels and is priced $3.99 in some stores. For that price, you can have mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, or biscuits, which are fuller of flavor. For large meals, better value per piece comes from the 16-piece bucket compared to smaller ones.
12. Keeping the Combo Drink
When you order the combo meal, you can exchange the drink for a second side such as mashed potatoes or a biscuit, as posted by a veteran KFC worker on TikTok. This easy exchange gets you more food on your plate without an added fee, and you get to avoid the soda and indulge in more of KFC’s delicious sides.
13. Paying Full Delivery Fees
Delivery prices differ between apps such as Uber Eats or DoorDash, and free delivery is available occasionally from KFC via its app, as observed in 2020. Compare prices and look for promotions on the KFC app before placing an order. A bit of research can save you from excess spending and keep you with more cash in your pocket.
KFC Locations near Columbus, GA
In Columbus, GA, KFC has a number of locations to accommodate:
- 2801 Airport Thruway, Columbus, GA 31909: Serves dine-in, drive-thru, and delivery, with such fan favorites as fried chicken and biscuits.
- 1934 Manchester Expy, Columbus, GA 31904: An excellent location for KFC’s classic menu and meal offers.
- 3710 US-280, Phenix City, AL 36867: Right across the state line, meeting Columbus-area fans with the same great offerings.
Visit the KFC website or app to confirm hours and check for local specials that might spice up your order.
Make Every KFC Visit Count
KFC’s global popularity and diverse menu make it a go-to for quick, delicious meals. By avoiding these 13 mistakes from missing creative add-ons to overpaying for delivery you can elevate your experience. Use the app, order secret menu items, and opt for high-value items so each bite is full of flavor and each dollar stretches further. Whether you’re in Columbus, GA, or halfway around the world, these tips will help you order like a pro and make your KFC meal “finger-lickin’ good.
