15 Countries Where the KFC’s Menu Will Totally Shock You

I still remember the first time I walked into a KFC outside the U.S. — it was in Bangkok. I thought I’d grab a classic bucket and some fries.

Instead, I got handed a tray with spicy chicken rice, a side of corn pie, and a glass of sweet green tea.

I just stood there staring at it like… what even is this?

That’s when I realized something: KFC isn’t just fried chicken and biscuits everywhere. In different corners of the world, they’ve got menus that’ll make you do a double-take — or three.

I wrote this to show you just how wildly creative fast food gets when it leaves American soil. These aren’t made-up, limited-time gimmicks. These are real, everyday menu items that locals love.

So if you’re the kind of traveler who sneaks into a chain restaurant just to see what’s different, you’re about to be very entertained.

Here are 15 countries where KFC took a sharp left turn and never looked back.

1. Philippines — Spaghetti and Fried Chicken, Together

Yep, this is normal. You walk into a KFC in Manila and order chicken with sweet-style spaghetti.

It’s got hot dog slices, banana ketchup, and cheese. And Filipinos love it.

Honestly? It’s not bad once you get past the surprise.

2. Japan — Fried Chicken Christmas Feasts

In Japan, KFC is Christmas.

No joke — people preorder buckets weeks in advance, complete with cake and champagne.

They don’t do turkey in Japan. So KFC became the next best thing. It’s festive, it’s fried, and it’s everywhere in December.

3. Portugal — Hello, Egg Tarts

This one blew my mind.

You’ll find golden, flaky Portuguese egg tarts (called pastéis de nata) right on the KFC dessert menu.

And they’re actually… better than they have any business being.

4. India — Curry Buckets and Biryani Bowls

KFC India goes full spice mode.

You can order rice bowls, chicken biryani, zinger wraps with chili sauce, and even curried chicken gravy.

The spice level isn’t for the faint of heart. But it’s fire.

5. Thailand — Chicken with Sticky Rice

You get a crispy chicken leg… and instead of mashed potatoes, a pack of sticky rice.

That’s how Thailand does comfort food. KFC here feels more like a fusion joint than a fast food chain.

6. China — Squid Balls and Mushroom Chicken

China’s KFC menus are massive. Like, restaurant-level variety.

You’ll find seafood rice bowls, mushroom chicken wraps, congee, and even spicy squid balls.

Oh — and no biscuits. That’s just not a thing here.

7. South Korea — Sweet Heat Everything

Think Korean-style fried chicken with gochujang glaze, cheese-covered fries, and corn salad as a side.

They also sell rice cakes (tteokbokki) sometimes.
And yes, it slaps.

8. Indonesia — Sambal Overload

In Indonesia, it’s all about the sambal — that bold, spicy chili sauce.

You get it on the chicken, in the rice, and even in your soup.
Order a chicken rice bowl and prepare to sweat.

9. Pakistan — Zinger Stacks and Fiery Nuggets

You’ll see zinger burgers the size of your face, chicken tikka wings, and yes, green chutney for dipping.

There’s even a special local soda brand they offer instead of Pepsi.

10. Egypt — Stuffed Chicken Shawarma Style

KFC Egypt gives you something wild: stuffed twister wraps that taste like a mashup of fried chicken and shawarma.

There’s also Molokhia rice on the side sometimes, depending on the branch.

11. Malaysia — Rice Boxes and Curry Sides

KFC Malaysia has full-blown meals with steamed rice and curry sauce.

The chicken’s familiar, but the plate looks like you ordered from a local café.

Pro tip: try the Cheezy Wedges. They’re kind of legendary.

12. Nigeria — Jollof Rice + Fried Chicken Combo

Walk into a KFC in Lagos and you’ll get jollof rice, spicy as ever, with your fried chicken.

It’s one of the most flavorful pairings on this list.

13. Taiwan — Porridge and Soy Milk?

Yep. You can get congee (rice porridge) for breakfast and soy milk to go with it.

It’s nothing like a U.S. breakfast combo. But it’s deeply comforting — especially on a rainy morning.

14. Venezuela — Arepas and Plantains

KFC Venezuela taps into the local food scene with arepas, sweet fried plantains, and even yuca fries on the side.

It’s familiar, but with a totally Latin twist.

15. Jamaica — Jerk Chicken-Style Heat

In Jamaica, KFC doesn’t hold back on the spice.

You can get spicy fried chicken that leans into jerk seasoning territory — and it’s got a legit kick.

The flavor’s bold, and the locals swear by it.

Final Thoughts

Who knew a brand like KFC could feel this different across borders?

Turns out, fried chicken is just the starting point. Around the world, KFC has reinvented itself in ways that blend perfectly with local tastes.

So next time you’re abroad and spot that red and white sign, go in.

Skip the regular combo and order whatever looks weirdest.

Because the world’s best culture shocks? Sometimes comes with fries on the side.