Does KFC Have Turkey? Your Guide to KFC’s Cajun Deep Fried Turkey

As Thanksgiving approaches, home cooks everywhere are starting to think about how they will prepare the star of the meal – the turkey. For some, roasting a turkey in the oven is a time-honored family tradition. Others prefer to deep fry their bird for a crispy exterior and juicy meat. But for those who want a delicious turkey without the hassle and stress of cooking it themselves, KFC’s Cajun Deep Fried Turkey is an convenient option.

KFC first introduced their deep fried turkey in 2010 and it has been a popular menu item ever since. The turkey is hand-rubbed with a blend of Cajun seasonings, deep fried to golden perfection, and available to order ahead of time from select KFC locations. So does KFC have turkey? Here’s what you need to know about getting your hands on this finger-lickin’ good holiday centerpiece.

Availability of KFC’s Deep Fried Turkey

KFC’s Cajun Deep Fried Turkey is a seasonal menu item that is only available for a limited time each year around Thanksgiving. In 2022, the deep fried turkey returned to KFC on October 24th and will remain on the menu through December 26th.

However, it is not available nationwide This year, the deep fried turkey can only be purchased from select KFC locations in four states – California, Colorado, Utah and Washington.

Within those states, you can find out which specific KFC restaurants are offering the Cajun Deep Fried Turkey by contacting your nearest locations. Availability varies by franchise, so calling ahead is the best way to confirm.

KFC’s fried turkey cannot be ordered online or shipped nationwide, unlike Popeyes’ Cajun Style Turkey which is available for delivery. For those not located near a participating KFC, trying this specialty dish may require a road trip. But for fried chicken fanatics, it could be well worth it!

Ordering KFC’s Deep Fried Turkey

The Cajun Deep Fried Turkey can be purchased from KFC in a few different ways. It is available a la carte for $70, as part of a Holiday Meal for $100, or a Holiday Feast for $110.

The Holiday Meal includes a fried turkey along with family size mashed potatoes and gravy, coleslaw, and a dozen biscuits. Opting for the Holiday Feast will get you all of that plus family size sweet corn, mac and cheese, chocolate cake.

KFC’s turkey weighs anywhere from 9 to 13 pounds and feeds 6 to 8 people. All options come fully cooked so you can pick up your meal hot and ready to serve on Thanksgiving Day. Orders must be placed 48 hours in advance.

When you place your order, you will select a date and time for pickup. KFC locations with the fried turkey will be open on Thanksgiving Day until 4pm, but hours may vary by franchise so confirm when you order.

Taste and Reviews

KFC’s Cajun Deep Fried Turkey offers the ultimate crispy, juicy fried turkey experience without the hassle or risk of deep frying at home. The Cajun seasoning provides a bold kick of flavor that sets it apart from your average roasted turkey.

Reviews of the deep fried turkey have been overwhelmingly positive over the years. Fans rave about the tender, moist meat encased in a perfectly seasoned crispy coating. Many say it’s the best turkey they’ve ever tasted.

The sides and desserts included in the holiday meals are classic KFC favorites like mashed potatoes, biscuits and mac and cheese. Having these crowd-pleasing sides made by KFC lets you focus on other dishes to round out your Thanksgiving spread.

KFC vs. Popeyes Fried Turkey

Fried chicken aficionados may be wondering how KFC’s version compares to Popeyes’ Cajun Style Turkey. Popeyes’ turkey is available nationwide through delivery, while KFC’s is only regional.

Popeyes’ turkey is $99 for a 13-14 pound turkey including shipping. KFC’s is $70 for 9-13 pounds, but only available for takeout. Both come pre-cooked so you just have to reheat.

As for taste, they both deliver on juicy, crispy fried turkey goodness with a spicy Cajun kick. But KFC uses their signature 11 herbs and spices while Popeyes uses Louisiana-style seasoning, so the flavor profiles differ slightly.

Some reviewers give Popeyes the edge for having more blackened, charred bits on the skin. But KFC’s seasoning blend and technique produce a very tender, moist interior meat. It comes down to brand preference and availability.

Other Turkey Options at KFC

Beyond the seasonal Cajun Deep Fried Turkey, fried chicken fans do have one other way to enjoy turkey with KFC’s iconic flavor. The Famous Bowl is available year-round and features turkey paired with mashed potatoes, sweet corn, gravy and cheese.

This menu item lets you get your KFC fix combined with turkey any time a craving strikes. It offers a similar comfort food experience to the deep fried turkey in bite-size form.

Occasionally, KFC locations in select markets will test limited-time turkey sandwiches and other items containing turkey or turkey sausage. But outside of the holidays, turkey is not a primary protein on KFC’s menu. Chicken remains the undisputed star.

Convenient and Delicious

KFC’s Cajun Deep Fried Turkey provides a mouthwatering turkey feast for Thanksgiving or Christmas without intensive prep and cook time. Having it prepared by the Colonel’s cooks frees up your oven while still letting you serve a buzzworthy dish.

If you live near California, Colorado, Utah or Washington, be sure to check availability and get your order in early. Combining KFC’s iconic flavors and frying technique with a juicy turkey is finger-lickin’ genius. This convenient holiday meal lets you focus on quality time with family and friends while enjoying the best fried turkey around.