I recently visited KFC for the first time in 15 years, chasing nostalgia — and left with no desire to return. A week later, another location surprised me with a fried feast that actually hit the spot.

In mid-July, KFC officially launched its "Kentucky Fried Comeback" turnaround campaign. The legacy fried chicken chain has lost market share to competitors like Popeyes and Raising Cane's. My first ...