Popeyes is teaming up with the viral YouTube series Hot Ones for a limited-time menu that brings bold Louisiana-style chicken together with iconic Hot Ones sauces.
Starting September 15, fans can try a range of crave-worthy creations like the mild-but-tangy Sizzlin’ Sriracha Dippers, the medium Smokin’ Rojo Sandwich, and the daringly hot Ghost Pepper Wings with The Last Dab Ranch.
This one-of-a-kind partnership is the first time a QSR (quick service restaurant) brand’s wings are featured on the Hot Ones show, proving once again that spice, flavor, and entertainment can share the spotlight.
Heat meets crunch: why this collab is more than hype
When Popeyes and Hot Ones come together, it’s not just about wings; it’s about turning flavor into an experience. Fans are in for a taste adventure that tests both their spice tolerance and their love for bold, craveable chicken. Here’s what you need to know:
- What happened: On September 15, Popeyes launched the Popeyes x Hot Ones menu nationwide, making it the first QSR brand to appear on the iconic YouTube series.
- Who’s involved: Popeyes, Hot Ones host Sean Evans, and celebrity guest Keke Palmer in a reunion episode that spotlights the limited-time menu.
- What’s on the menu:
- Sizzlin’ Sriracha Dippers – Pickled garlic sriracha-marinated chicken dippers with a buttermilk ranch dip and a Hot Ones Sriracha sachet for a mild-but-fiery kick.
- Smokin’ Rojo Sandwich – A crispy chicken fillet topped with Hot Ones Los Calientes Rojo spread and tangy pickles on a toasted brioche bun for medium heat and maximum flavor.
- Darin’ Dab Ghost Wings – Bone-in or boneless wings coated in ghost pepper dry rub and served with The Last Dab Ranch for fans craving serious heat.
- The Last Dab – The legendary Hot Ones hot sauce, available as an add-on sachet for those ready to take the ultimate spice challenge.
- Why now: Popeyes aims to expand its bold-flavor reputation, while Hot Ones ventures into QSR territory for the first time, blending viral culture with craveable food.
- Industry impact: This collaboration showcases the power of pop culture tie-ins in the restaurant industry, illustrating how entertainment-driven marketing can elevate customer engagement, create social media buzz, and drive limited-time menu success.
Flavor firepower: a menu that brings the challenge to you
Bart LaCount, Popeyes’ Chief Marketing Officer, explained:
“This limited-time menu is more than a product launch, it’s a cultural moment.”
Sean Evans, host of Hot Ones, added:
“Popeyes’ bold flavors make this partnership a no-brainer—it’s the perfect match to test spice lovers in the most delicious way.”
Some key takeaways for the food and QSR industry include:
- Crossovers are hot: QSRs can successfully collaborate with viral media to create unforgettable experiences.
- Spice sells: Consumers are seeking customizable heat levels, from mild sriracha to fiery ghost pepper.
- Bundles bring value: The Popeyes x Hot Ones bundle ($16.99) offers multiple heat levels and menu items in one order, enhancing both taste and bragging rights.
- Loyalty perks: Popeyes Rewards Members can earn double points from September 22–28, encouraging online and app orders.
Fans can order the menu across participating Popeyes locations, apps, and online.
Wrapping it up: why this spicy drop matters
The Popeyes x Hot Ones collab proves that food is more than sustenance; it’s entertainment, culture, and conversation all on a plate. By blending iconic viral content with bold, craveable flavors, Popeyes elevates both its menu and brand relevance, showing how limited-time releases can energize customers, drive social engagement, and highlight culinary creativity.
For QSRs, this is a perfect example of how to keep offerings fresh, exciting, and newsworthy.
So, can you handle the heat? Don’t wait too long. This fiery menu is available for a limited time. For more insights, inspiration, or to explore a range of crave-worthy chicken options and private label solutions, feel free to connect with us.
