A KFC favorite in multiple markets is finally making its debut in the United States.
On February 26, the quick service restaurant chain is introducing Chizza (like pizza with a ch, or for better or worse, cheats-uh) to KFC menus across the U.S.
What exactly is Chizza? Well, it’s sort of like a pizza, but instead of a crust made from dough, it uses two 100% white meat Extra Crispy fried chicken filets, and those filets are topped with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese and slices of pepperoni.
The history of Chizza
According to a press release, KFC first launched Pizza on menus at its locations in the Philippines in 2015. Since that time, the chain brought Chizza to Korea, Taiwan, India, Thailand, Germany, Spain and Mexico.
But not until now was it offered in the U.S. The company said it will be offered in the United States “for a limited time.” But as we all know, sometimes “a limited time” turns into a long-term or permanent thing.
"Fried chicken and pizza collaborated to create something even better – the Chizza," said Nick Chavez, CMO KFC U.S. "The fan-favorite mashup is finally available in the U.S. after making its way around the world – try it while you can!"
Along with the Chizza comes the Chizzaria
To bring additional fun to the U.S. rollout of the Chizza, KFC transformed its restaurant at 242 E 14th St. in New York City into a one-of-a-kind "Chizzeria" pop-up. I mean you can’t have a fun name like Chizza without creating an even more fun word like Chizzaria.
The KFC Chizzeria at 242 E 14th St. in New York City.Courtesy KFC
The Chizzaria offered customers the chance to try Chizza a few days before anyone else. The KFC Chizzeria exclusively offered the one menu item on February 23-24.
Will Chizza remain?
As I mentioned earlier, KFC says it will offer Chizza for a limited time, but will that really be the case?
I of course will have to give it a try, but if I’m totally being honest, do fried chicken and pepperoni belong together?
It’s a clever idea, and since Chizza has been around in other parts of the world for nearly a decade, it must have some appeal.
Part of me has to ask why it took so long to come to the U.S., but maybe, just maybe, it will be worth the wait, even if we didn’t realize we were waiting.
