KFC® Launches Comfort-First Value Menu for January 2026
KFC® is ushering in January 2026 with a flavor-packed lineup designed to make lunchtime more enjoyable and affordable. Featuring the introduction of five $5 Bowls*, a collaboration with celebrity chef Matty Matheson, and the much-anticipated return of $10 Tuesdays**, this initiative addresses the challenges many Americans face when it comes to rising lunchtime costs. As a subsidiary of YUM Brands, KFC aims to offer comfort food without compromising on value.
A Bold Approach to January Lunches
This January, KFC is focused on providing customers with comforting meal options that don’t sacrifice quality for affordability. In a recent survey, over 42% of Americans reported they do not set New Year’s food goals, while 58% feel guilty when indulging in comfort food. KFC is addressing these concerns by shifting the conversation from restriction to indulgence, as highlighted by Melissa Cash, KFC U.S. Chief Marketing Officer:
"Every January, the conversation around food gets smaller with focus on rules and restriction. But it shouldn't come at the cost of trading down. Self-improvement can mean intentional indulgence, comfort and abundant value."
Introducing Five $5 Bowls
KFC’s new lineup includes five delicious $5 Bowls, which provide a satisfying balance of comfort and value. Among the offerings are:
- Matty's Cheesy Nuggy Gravy Bowl: Fries topped with brown gravy, crispy chicken nuggets, and cheese curds.
- Mac & Cheese Bowl: A homestyle classic featuring mac & cheese, crispy chicken nuggets, and a three-cheese blend.
- Mashed Potato Bowl: Creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy, corn, chicken nuggets, and a three-cheese blend.
- Spicy Mac & Cheese Bowl: Mac & cheese with chicken nuggets and a blend of three cheeses.
- Spicy Mashed Potato Bowl: Mashed potatoes with gravy, corn, chicken nuggets, and Nashville Hot Sauce.
This variety aims to combat the common sentiment that 38% of Americans feel their lunches are merely "fine." With the cost of lunch increasingly on consumers' minds—with **31%** expressing negative feelings when prices rise above $15—KFC’s approach emphasizes providing affordable options that satisfy cravings.
$10 Tuesdays to Support Your Resolutions
The concept of “Quitters Day,” which often occurs in early January when many New Year’s resolutions fall by the wayside, is being tackled by KFC’s popular $10 Tuesdays. Launching on January 9, 2026, customers can enjoy an eight-piece bucket of dark meat or tenders for just $10. This initiative provides a cost-effective and comforting meal for those experiencing budget constraints.
With **65%** of Americans surveyed finding meal prep to be tedious, $10 Tuesdays offer a speedy alternative that anyone can stick with throughout the week.
Introducing the Bowl-o-Tie
In addition to its extensive menu, KFC is injecting fun into its brand personality with the introduction of the Bowl-o-Tie, a nod to Colonel Sanders' iconic fashion. This innovative product showcases KFC’s playful spirit while connecting with its heritage. Fans can look forward to purchasing the Bowl-o-Tie soon.
Conclusion
As January unfolds, KFC’s new offerings are designed to bring warmth, joy, and savings to a month often associated with cold weather and tight budgets. Through the rollout of the $5 Bowls and the return of $10 Tuesdays, KFC aims to offer comforting solutions to everyday dining challenges. For further updates and to explore the full lineup of value offerings, visit the KFC app or website.