Unhappy customers sue KFC over giveaway

updated 5:52 p.m. ET June 18, 2009

NEW YORK - A couple of unhappy customers who missed out on free grilled chicken at KFC after Oprah promoted it are taking their beef to court.

Two California residents who were unable to use the online coupon sued KFC owner Yum Brands Inc. in state court in Los Angeles on Wednesday.

They claim the fast-food company's grilled chicken giveaway last month was a "bait and switch" to get people to spend money at the chain.

For days after the 24-hour posting began, the company was swamped with customers craving the freebie. At some locations, lines snaked around the block and caused traffic jams.

The company has offered rain checks to those who could not redeem the coupons.

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