Coles takes on KFC with twist on $13 roast chicken
The bachelor's handbag has had a mouth-watering makeover.
Coles has announced a new addition to its ever-popular barbecue chook range, introducing a Southern Style Hot Roast Chicken to stores from today.
Inspired by southern US cuisine, the new flavour features a blend of smokey paprika, herbs, garlic and onion designed to create a sweet and tangy taste that Coles says rivals KFC.
Priced at $13, the limited-edition item is released as the rising living costs prompt Aussies to increasingly prioritise spending their food budgets on groceries over dining out or takeaway.
Grocery spending surge
In March, financial comparison site Finder released its Cost of Living report, which highlighted the impact of rising prices on eating habits, with a staggering 71 per cent of Australians saying they've adjusted their dining preferences to make ends meet.
According to the study, the most prominent change in eating behaviour has been the reduction in restaurant dining and takeaway, with 46 per cent of Aussies opting for home-cooked meals instead.
The report also revealed an increase in grocery spending, with the average Australian household spending $185 a week on groceries in February 2023, a $37 increase on the previous year.
Both Coles and Woolworths' hot roast chickens have remained a popular choice for households seeking affordable dining options, with Coles alone selling close to 500,000 per year.
Aussies crave affordable options
Coles Product Developer for Seafood & Deli, Tim Hickox said the supermarket giant is excited to expand the range of ready-made meal options available in-store.
"As the weather is cooling down, Aussies want comforting and hearty meals that are easy to prepare but won't break the bank," Mr Hickox said.
Building on the success of previous flavours including Honey BBQ and Vegemite, Mr Hickox said the new Southern Style chicken is a response to growing demand for convenient alternatives to the standard roast chook.
"We also know that when our customers are time-poor, our range of convenient meals are great take-home options that don't compromise on flavour. Our Southern Style Hot Roast Chicken will take an easy weeknight meal or Sunday lunch to the next level," he said.
The new flavour is now available nationally, except for the Northern Territory, and hits stores a week after rival Woolies released its Memphis BBQ Hot Roast Chicken.
Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter and download the Yahoo News app from the App Store or Google Play.
