KFC Set To Open Its Own Chicken Tenders-Focused Restaurant

Is Raising Cane’s collar about to get tight?

KFC is set to shake up the fast food scene with Saucy, a new dining concept launching December 20 in Orlando, Florida. Positioned as a “flavor-forward dining destination,” Saucy puts chicken tenders at the forefront, offering them with 11 signature sauces, including Chimichurri Ranch, Spicy Mango Chutney, and a Smokey Bacon Ranch. The tenders, hand-breaded and fried in small batches, are complemented by sides like toasted Hawaiian rolls, crinkle-cut fries, and coleslaw (dupe alert?).

Diners can customize their experience with over 4,000 possible flavor combinations and combos starting at $7.99 for three tenders, fries, a toasted roll, a drink, and a dipping sauce. The menu also includes options like the EZ Crispy Sandwich and Spicy Queso Crunch Sandwich, alongside desserts such as Chocolate Mousse Cake and Key Lime Cake. To round it out, Saucy leans into the beverage craze with 11 specialty drinks, featuring Peach-Mango Lemonade, Hot Honey Watermelon Refresher, and Blue Raspberry Freezes.

The restaurant breaks from KFC’s traditional branding, swapping its iconic red for a pink palette and offering kiosks, drive-thru lanes, and live entertainment like Friday night DJs at “Saucy Soirées.” It also integrates advanced tech to streamline operations and cut down wait times, ensuring tenders are served hot and fresh.

According to KFC U.S. President Tarun Lal, the concept aims to innovate while refining customer and team member experiences, with plans for gradual expansion based on early learnings. Backed fully by Yum Brands, Saucy signals a bold experiment in redefining KFC’s signature flavors for a modern dining experience.