KFC tests chicken and doughnut sandwich in Pittsburgh region

Finger lickin’ good at Kentucky Fried Chicken is taking on a whole new meaning.

KFC is testing — for a limited time — the public’s appetite for its fried chicken and glazed doughnut pairing in just two markets: Norfolk, Va., and the Pittsburgh region.

On Wednesday, Leo Wozniak tried KFC’s new Chicken & Donuts in Monroeville for the first time. Because the chicken was larger than the glazed doughnut buns, it took two bites before Wozniak got a mouthful of fried crispies and sweet dough.

“It’s not the kind of food that you’d get and eat driving down the turnpike,” the Level Green resident said.

Between finger licks Wozniak added, “It’s good. A little strange, but it’s good.”

Mark Bowman, of Irwin, agreed, noting the doughnut chicken sandwich required a little “smooshing.”

“It’s Pittsburgh,” Bowman said. “It’s not supposed to be nice when you eat.”

Wozniak and Bowman are among the first in the Pittsburgh region to try the new concoction.

The fried chicken giant began selling its Fried Chicken & Donuts earlier this week at dozen sites in Allegheny County and four in Westmoreland. Customers can choose between a doughnut sandwich for $5.99 or a combo for $7.99 and a basket meal for $5.49. Guests can also add a doughnut to any meal for $1.

Only the fried chicken is made in house. The doughnuts are outsourced.

It’s the not first time KFC has changed things up on their customers’ taste buds. The national chain in May served Cinnabon Dessert Biscuits. A year ago, it was Chicken & Waffles.

Food trend watchers have noticed a growing hunger for chicken and doughnuts in areas such as Philadelphia, San Diego and Portland.

“As part of its food innovation strategy, KFC is always looking for ways to serve its customers with new delicious and innovative choices,” a KFC spokesperson said.

Kentucky Fried Chicken & Donuts will be available in both markets through October 13 or until supplies last.

To see the test sites in the region, click here.