Walkers has confirmed the return of its popular KFC collaboration crisps, with two flavours hitting shelves next week after a five-year absence. The Walkers MAX KFC Original Chicken will become a permanent addition to the lineup, while the Walkers MAX KFC Zinger will be available for a limited time only.
Fans celebrate the return of 'crack cocaine in crisp form'
Social media users have long praised the Kentucky Fried Chicken crisps. A Reddit user described them as 'crack cocaine in crisp form,' while an X user said: 'I would genuinely rank them among one of the best flavours ever.' TikToker @soulfula5 called the Zinger crisps 'the best thing the UK ever made… and they just discontinued it like it was nothing.'
What the flavours offer
The Original Chicken flavour aims to 'perfectly capture' the peppery, salty, and spiced essence of KFC's blend of 11 herbs and spices. The Zinger variant delivers a spicy and zesty kick mimicking the 'zing' of a KFC staple. Walkers says the returning crisps promise the same nostalgic, punchy taste that made them a household staple.
Walkers responds to demand
Wayne Newton, senior marketing director at Walkers, commented: 'We knew the nation missed the Walkers MAX KFC collab after its highly successful run in 2021, but we underestimated the sheer scale of the devotion. Luckily, the wait is over, and we’re thrilled to officially confirm the rumours: MAX KFC crisps are back. With the Original Chicken flavour here to stay permanently and the Zinger back for a limited time, Walkers MAX is giving the fans what they’ve been longing for.'
Rollout details and pack formats
The nationwide rollout begins the week of July 20, 2026, landing in all major UK supermarkets, convenience stores, and wholesalers. Both flavours will be available in sharing and price-marked packs. Walkers MAX KFC Original Chicken will also be sold in singles and vending formats.
KFC also launches new burgers and fries
In related news, KFC has unveiled two new burgers featuring naan bread. The Crispy Naan range includes a Tandoori Zinger Crispy Naan — a fiery Zinger chicken fillet with Tandoori sauce, tomato, red onion, lettuce, and melted cheese between two naan breads — and a Creamy Original Crispy Naan with a cooler yoghurt and shallot sauce. Both burgers cost £7.49 each, or £9.49 as a meal. Additionally, KFC is launching Tandoori Loaded Fries at £3.99, combining spiced chips with Popcorn Chicken and both creamy yoghurt and tandoori sauces. These items will be available from July 20 until August 23.
