Back in March, a viral TikTok video depicting a KFC customer successfully receiving a free refill on a bucket of chicken sent fans into a frenzy. The video, which has since amassed nearly 30 million views, tested a claim that the chain offers free bucket refills as long as customers finish their original order within 60 minutes and do not leave the store. But is this hack true? KFC's bucket refill policy states otherwise.
In the video, the TikTok user records himself ordering an eight-piece bucket of chicken. After finishing the initial bucket, he returns to the counter and asks for a free bucket refill while mentioning the "refill policy." The employee refills his bucket, prompting the user to say, "Wow, it works."
The video spread like wildfire on social media, with hundreds of thousands of users sharing it and trying to replicate the supposed hack.
"I guarantee [KFC] is going to end that policy today," wrote one user in the comments, while another said the deal "seemed too good to be true."
@itsallenferrell KFC Bucket Refill Policy?? 😎🍗
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So, Does KFC Actually Refill Buckets of Chicken for Free?
Unfortunately for those who relish fried chicken, the reality is that KFC does not extend such an offer. A KFC representative confirmed to Cheapism via email that the restaurant chain does not provide free bucket refills. But there's some good news: free drink refills are offered depending on franchise location.
KFC also responded to the rumor on Twitter, noting that while "the free bucket refill rumor is a lie," the chain is running an offer for $10 buckets. Fans will also be happy to note the recent (albeit temporary) return of KFC's much-loved Double Down.
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Bummed about not getting those extra chicken pieces? There are other actually legitimate secret menus and hacks out there at chains like Chick-fil-A, McDonald's, and Waffle House. Just remember to be kind to fast food employees while you're ordering — and don't believe everything you see on TikTok.