Did you know that Kentucky Fried Chicken, or KFC as it is commonly known, is one of the most recognizable brands in the world?
Since its humble beginnings in 1930, KFC has become a beloved fast-food institution across the globe. But there’s so much more to this iconic brand than meets the eye. Read on to discover 11 amazing facts you didn’t know about Kentucky Fried Chicken!
1) Colonel Sanders was real
Most people know the name Colonel Sanders as synonymous with Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), but did you know that the famous founder of KFC was actually a real person? Colonel Harland David Sanders was born in 1890 in Henryville, Indiana. In his early life, he held various jobs such as steam engine stoker, insurance salesman, and railroad fireman.
The Colonel’s first venture into the restaurant business began in 1930 when he opened a service station in Corbin, Kentucky. In addition to selling gasoline, he also served hot meals to travelers. He began experimenting with different recipes for fried chicken and eventually perfected his own recipe. By 1940, Sanders had become so popular that he was given the honorary title of “Kentucky Colonel” by the state governor.
Sanders’s popularity continued to grow and he opened several more restaurants across the south. He also began franchising his recipe and the first franchisee opened their doors in 1952. Sanders was so passionate about his recipe that he personally trained all of his franchisees on how to prepare the chicken.
Today, Colonel Sanders is still an iconic figure in American culture, representing the deliciousness of KFC. The Colonel’s signature white suit and glasses remain an unmistakable symbol of the restaurant. As Colonel Sanders famously said, “It’s finger-lickin’ good!”
2) KFC is the world’s second-largest restaurant chain
Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) is one of the most popular fast-food restaurants in the world. In fact, it is the second largest restaurant chain in terms of sales behind McDonald’s. The company was founded by Colonel Harland Sanders in 1930 and continues to thrive today with over 21,000 locations in more than 135 countries and territories around the globe.
KFC has come a long way since it first opened its doors and now serves a wide variety of menu items, from its classic Original Recipe chicken to fried chicken sandwiches and salads. The company also offers various sides such as mashed potatoes and gravy, coleslaw, biscuits, and corn on the cob. For dessert, you can choose from KFC’s tasty treats like the Chocolate Chip Cake or Peach Cobbler.
The Colonel’s famous Original Recipe has remained unchanged since 1940 when it was first created. This secret blend of 11 herbs and spices is what makes KFC so popular around the world. In addition to its signature fried chicken, KFC also offers grilled chicken that is marinated in herbs and spices and cooked over an open flame.
In addition to its popular menu items, KFC also offers value meals that include a combo of chicken, a side, and a beverage. KFC is also well-known for its unique marketing campaigns and special promotions, such as its annual “Finger-Lickin’ Good” campaign.
No matter where you are in the world, you can find a KFC nearby and enjoy their delicious chicken. From their classic Original Recipe to their grilled chicken, KFC offers something for everyone. So why not give them a try?
3) KFC sells more than chicken
When it comes to Kentucky Fried Chicken, we all know the brand is synonymous with delicious fried chicken. But did you know KFC sells more than just chicken? Yes, it’s true! Beyond its classic fried chicken, KFC offers a variety of menu items sure to satisfy any taste.
KFC’s menu includes staples like popcorn chicken, chicken tenders, chicken wings, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, biscuits and gravy, and coleslaw. But KFC also serves up some interesting dishes such as bacon-wrapped chicken bites, hot & spicy fried chicken, Nashville Hot Chicken, pot pies, and even Cheetos Chicken Fries. For those looking for an indulgent treat, KFC serves up the Chocolate Chip Cake and the famous KFC Double Down Sandwich.
So if you’re ever in the mood for something other than the classic Kentucky Fried Chicken, remember that KFC has a lot more to offer. Try something different next time you stop by and you’ll be sure to find something you love.
4) KFC recipes are kept in a safe
The secret recipes behind the famous taste of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) are closely guarded. In fact, only a handful of people in the world have access to them, and these individuals have taken an oath of secrecy. All the recipes are kept in a safe so that no one outside the company knows exactly how each dish is prepared.
The most famous of all the KFC recipes is the 11 herbs and spices mix that coats each piece of chicken. This mix has remained unchanged since its inception in 1940, and while some rumors have surfaced as to what’s inside it, the recipe remains a closely guarded secret.
In addition to the 11 herbs and spices, KFC is well known for its gravy recipe. Its special blend of ingredients gives it a unique flavor and smooth texture. This recipe too is kept in a safe and only a few people have access to it.
KFC also has many other secret recipes for sides, desserts, and sauces, all of which are kept in a secure safe. This ensures that these recipes remain confidential and that KFC is able to maintain its signature taste for generations to come.
5) The original KFC recipe had 11 herbs and spices
KFC, one of the most beloved fast-food restaurants in the world, has a long and interesting history. Few people know that the original KFC recipe had 11 herbs and spices that blended together to create the iconic taste of fried chicken. Colonel Sanders, the founder of KFC, was very secretive about his original recipe and even went so far as to never write it down.
In 2016, Colonel Sanders’ nephew, Joe Ledington, revealed that the original recipe consisted of 11 herbs and spices including salt, pepper, oregano, basil, thyme, paprika, garlic salt, celery salt, sage, rosemary, and black pepper. He revealed that the herbs and spices were combined in two separate batches. The first batch contained the dry ingredients and the second contained the wet ingredients.
When Colonel Sanders created his original recipe in 1940 he had no way of knowing it would become an international sensation. His unique blend of herbs and spices has been enjoyed by millions around the world. Today KFC’s restaurants are found in over 115 countries across the globe and their menu has evolved with new items such as popcorn chicken and grilled chicken sandwiches.
Whether you’re a fan of fried chicken or not, it’s hard to deny that Colonel Sanders was ahead of his time in creating a dish that has become a global favorite. The combination of 11 herbs and spices in his original recipe is an important part of KFC’s legacy.
6) The first KFC opened in 1930
It may come as a surprise to many, but Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) was actually established all the way back in 1930. Founder Colonel Harland Sanders opened his first restaurant in the small town of Corbin, Kentucky, serving up delicious fried chicken that quickly gained popularity. The restaurant featured a buffet-style service where customers could choose from a selection of different dishes for one low price.
At first, the restaurant operated out of a small roadside shack, but the business quickly expanded over the years. By 1940, Sanders had opened three more KFC locations and had created a franchise model. His original restaurant in Corbin eventually closed down, but it was reopened by Sanders’ nephew as the Sanders Café in the late 1950s.
Today, KFC is one of the most recognizable fast-food brands in the world. With more than 22,000 locations in 150 countries, it’s no wonder why this fried chicken chain has been so successful. It all started with Colonel Sanders and his very first KFC location in 1930 – a true testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and the deliciousness of his fried chicken!
7) KFC is present in over 80 countries
Did you know that Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) has spread its wings to over 80 countries around the world? Yes, that’s right! From China to Costa Rica, from the United States to the United Arab Emirates, KFC has established itself as a global icon of finger-licking goodness.
In fact, KFC was among the first fast-food restaurants to become an international phenomenon. The company’s first foray into international markets was in Canada in the 1960s and by 1987 it had opened its first restaurant in China. Today, KFC is present in more than 20,000 locations in over 80 countries and territories, making it one of the largest quick-service restaurant chains in the world.
Interestingly, not all KFC restaurants serve the same menu. Every country gets unique items that reflect their local tastes. For example, the Indian menu includes Masala Chicken Wings and Paneer Zinger Wraps while Chinese customers can enjoy Egg Tart and Seaweed Shrimp Rolls.
The expansion of KFC internationally is a testament to the power of its brand and the quality of its offerings. Whether you’re in Shanghai or Sydney, KFC promises an enjoyable dining experience that will leave you licking your fingers!
8) KFC introduced the bucket meal in 1957
KFC is known for its delicious fried chicken, and the introduction of the bucket meal in 1957 helped to revolutionize the fast food industry. The bucket meal made it easier for customers to share meals, with larger portions of chicken offered in a single serving. KFC’s founder, Colonel Harland Sanders, is credited with the invention of the iconic bucket meal.
The original KFC buckets were made of aluminum and featured a cardboard liner that protected the chicken from touching the metal. The buckets have since evolved and come in a variety of sizes and styles, but the concept remains the same.
In addition to being easy to share, KFC’s bucket meal has become an icon of American culture. It has been featured in movies, television shows, and commercials, becoming an instantly recognizable symbol of the brand.
KFC continues to innovate and create new menu items for customers to enjoy. But their bucket meal will forever be remembered as one of the most iconic inventions in fast food history.
9) KFC was the first restaurant chain to expand to China
When it comes to fast food, Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) is one of the most recognizable brands in the world. Founded in 1952 by Harland Sanders, KFC has become an international sensation with over 20,000 restaurants in more than 135 countries. But did you know that KFC was also the first restaurant chain to expand to China?
KFC entered the Chinese market in 1987, long before other Western fast-food chains. After opening its first store in Beijing, KFC quickly gained popularity due to its unique flavor and menu items. Today, KFC is the largest Western restaurant chain in China with over 5,000 locations throughout the country.
In addition to bringing its signature fried chicken and secret recipe to China, KFC has also tailored its menu to appeal to local palates. Over the years, KFC has added a variety of dishes such as congee, dan dan noodles, and a shrimp burger to its menu. It has also collaborated with local brands such as Starbucks and AliPay to offer a more comprehensive dining experience.
KFC’s success in China is a testament to the brand’s ability to adapt and grow in new markets. It has become a symbol of the power of globalization, proving that there is always the potential for growth and expansion when it comes to global business.
10) KFC sponsors the Yum! Center
Did you know that Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) is a major sponsor of the Yum? Center in Louisville, KY? It’s true – KFC has been a long-time partner of the Yum! Center and its home teams, the University of Louisville Cardinals, and the Louisville Bats.
KFC’s support of the Yum! The Center isn’t just financial. In addition to sponsoring the arena, they also provide food for the guests, including their famous Original Recipe fried chicken. The concession stands at the arena have even been nicknamed “The Colonel’s Kitchen” in honor of KFC founder Colonel Harland Sanders.
KFC also sponsors special events held at the Yum! Center. In recent years, they have partnered with the arena to host a variety of entertainment acts, such as WWE wrestling matches and country music concerts. KFC has also sponsored appearances by famous basketball players like Steph Curry and Kobe Bryant.
Finally, KFC also donates a portion of its profits from each Yum! Center event to a local charity of their choice. This is an example of the company’s commitment to supporting the community in which they operate.
If you’re a fan of either Louisville’s basketball team or baseball team, or if you’re just looking for some delicious fried chicken, you can thank KFC for their support of the Yum! Center.
11) KFC sells more than 1 billion chickens a year
It’s no surprise that KFC sells a lot of fried chicken, but did you know they sell more than 1 billion chickens each year? That’s enough to feed the entire population of the United States twice over! KFC’s iconic Colonel Harland Sanders started the business in 1930, and it has since become one of the most well-known fast food chains in the world.
In addition to their famous chicken, KFC also serves plenty of other dishes like sandwiches, salads, and sides. With more than 23,000 locations in 140 countries, it’s safe to say KFC has had a lasting impact on the global food scene.
Conclusion
As we’ve seen, there is a lot more to Kentucky Fried Chicken than meets the eye. From Colonel Sanders’ beginnings to the company’s international reach, it’s easy to see how KFC has become a staple in fast food culture around the world. Whether you’re a fan of the original recipe or a lover of the Extra Crispy variety, one thing is for sure: KFC is here to stay!
KFC may have changed over the years, but its commitment to serving up delicious fried chicken remains the same. And with the company’s growing range of menu items and innovative recipes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So next time you’re in the mood for some finger-licking-good fried chicken, be sure to swing by your local KFC!
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Hi I’m Bilal Malik, a digital marketing and blogging expert holding years of experience.
