Popeyes and Hot Ones: Limited-Time Menu Packed with Fiery Levels of Flavor

Popeyes partnered with UEG to bring to life a groundbreaking collaboration with Hot Ones, the viral interview series recognized for its celebrity guests and signature sauces. After initial outreach attempts had stalled, UEG reopened the conversation and secured a first-of-its-kind QSR partnership, making Popeyes the first chicken brand to be featured within the Hot Ones platform. Leveraging deep industry relationships and strategic negotiations, UEG delivered a limited-time menu that seamlessly blended the two brands, offering items such as Sizzlin’ Sriracha Dippers, the Smokin’ Rojo Sandwich, and Ghost Pepper Wings featuring the iconic Last Dab sauce.

To maximize cultural impact, UEG executed a comprehensive communications strategy designed to generate awareness and engagement across multiple channels. The team secured embargoed coverage with top-tier media, coordinated high-impact mailers and food drops to creators, and produced a custom Hot Ones episode featuring Keke Palmer. Additional activations, including a press event at Popeyes’ Times Square location, experiential tasting events in key markets, and digital-first influencer challenges, further amplified visibility and positioned the partnership as a relevant and timely cultural moment.

The collaboration successfully extended beyond product innovation to establish Popeyes as a category leader in cultural integration. By aligning its bold, Louisiana-inspired flavors with Hot Ones’ signature heat, Popeyes delivered an authentic experience that resonated with both loyal guests and new audiences. This campaign set a new benchmark for QSR partnerships, blending entertainment, media, and culinary innovation into a cohesive program that strengthened brand equity and generated meaningful consumer engagement.

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