According to a report from KFC's parent company Yum Brands, the chicken chain has faced recent sales and customer traffic declines; Yum's reported second quarter of 2025 posted a 5% decline in US performance. KFC is focused on changing these declines.

After bringing back its popular Wedges and Wings as part of its "comeback era," KFC is reintroducing one of its most requested menu items: Original Honey BBQ, returning Oct. 6, 2025.

First introduced in the late 1990s, Original Honey BBQ quickly became a cult classic thanks to its balance of sweet and smoky flavor. Over time, consumers have taken to social media asking for its comeback, trading copycat recipes, and reminiscing about the unique sauce. Now, consumers can order the Honey BBQ sauce on all KFC chicken offerings.

"KFC's Original Honey BBQ wasn't just a menu offering, it became a cultural touchstone that fans have been craving and asking us to bring back for years," said Catherine Tan-Gillespie, president for KFC US. "What better way to continue our KFC comeback than to bring back this legendary flavor and reintroduce it in a bigger and bolder way — on everything." 

Source: Kentucky Fried Chicken