Consider turning your love for fried chicken into a business opportunity by investing in one of the leading chicken franchises. The food industry is prone to trends that come and go, but chicken has proven to be a category with staying power. The popularity of chicken skyrocketed in 2019 during the “chicken sandwich wars” between Popeyes and Chick-fil-A. This competition led to an increase in revenue for both franchises and other concepts began introducing their own chicken products. As a result, some franchises now focus solely on chicken. If you have a passion for chicken, or are simply interested in joining an expanding and exciting industry, investing in a chicken franchise could be a wise choice.
And our client, Slim Chickens, is rank #4 in top chicken franchises for 2023, based on 44th Annual Franchise 500 List.
We have compiled a list of the top 12 chicken franchises for 2023.
Number of U.S. units: 2.786
Popeyes is a highly successful quick-service restaurant (QSR) chain in the United States, a country famous for its fast-food industry. The restaurant is famous for its New Orleans-style fried chicken, which offers great taste at an affordable price. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen is widely recognized as one of the most popular fast-food chains in the United States, with a strong presence from New York to Texas to Florida. Its popularity is not limited to the U.S., as it has more than 600 franchises across the world, and Canada alone has 200 Popeyes locations.
Number of U.S. units: 1,618
Wingstop is a fast-casual food franchise that specializes in chicken wings and french fries. It started as a small buffalo wing shop in 1994 and began franchising in 1998. By 2002, it had already served one billion wings. Today, Wingstop has more than 1,200 franchises across the United States and over 100 international locations.
Wingstop’s mission goes beyond just selling wings. The company strives to be a leader in the world of flavor, offering the freshest and most flavorful wings possible. In addition to their signature chicken wings, Wingstop also takes great pride in their hand-cut french fries, which are seasoned to perfection.
Number of U.S. units: 22,405
KFC is famous for its fried chicken served in a bucket and often accompanied by sides to create a complete meal for individuals or families. Although this classic dish is the restaurant’s mainstay, they frequently introduce new items to the menu to balance familiarity with novelty.
KFC seeks motivated and dedicated individuals who are willing to be actively involved in the daily operations of their franchise. The company places a strong emphasis on constantly improving, streamlining, and innovating to meet customer needs. If you’re ready to fully commit to a company that prioritizes progress, KFC might be a good option for you.
Number of U.S. units: 200
Slim Chickens is a restaurant chain that specializes in hand-breaded chicken dishes, including tenders, wings, and wraps. Since its establishment in 2003, Slim Chickens has been committed to using the freshest ingredients to serve its customers the best meals. Its foundation lies in 100 percent all-natural premium tenderloins.
At Slim Chickens, the focus is on going above and beyond to create high-quality food. In addition to its main course chicken meals, Slim Chickens also serves a variety of side dishes, such as southern-fried pickles and fried mushrooms. For those with a sweet tooth, the restaurant offers delicious desserts like strawberry cheesecake and chocolate brownies. All menu items are typically served in mason jars, adding a fun and unique touch to the dining experience.
Number of U.S. units: 198
Golden Chick was originally known as Golden Fried Chicken when it first opened in San Marcos, Texas in 1967. The restaurant changed its name to Golden Chick in 1996 and added new menu items, such as golden roasted chicken. Today, there are over 175 Golden Chick locations throughout the United States, with franchise opportunities available in various locations.
For many franchisees, investing in Golden Chick is considered a golden opportunity. Franchisees come from diverse backgrounds, including military veterans, experienced franchise owners, and corporate professionals, each bringing their unique experiences and skills to their franchisees.
Number of U.S. units: 496
Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits is renowned for its extensive menu, featuring various biscuits such as Cheddar Bo biscuits, melted butter and buttermilk biscuits with country ham, chicken filet, steak, bacon, cheese or jelly. Originally a meeting place for friends and family, the company has now become a leader in the chicken franchise industry. In addition to its status as a well-known company in the industry, Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits offers a great opportunity due to its large base of devoted customers.
Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits operates under a well-planned model that aims to stay ahead of competitors. The franchise places a strong emphasis on generating high sales throughout the day. By joining this franchise, you will become part of a business that has established a reputation for supporting and collaborating with its franchisees for over four decades.
Number of U.S. units: 768
Zaxby’s is a casual dining restaurant that specializes in buffalo wings, sandwiches, chicken fingers, and salads. The chain is primarily located in the southern region of the United States and has over 900 locations. While franchisees own most of the Zaxby’s restaurants, the company operates more than 140 of them.
To be a successful Zaxby’s franchisee, one should be dedicated to providing opportunities to others and making a positive impact in their community. Maintaining high standards and never compromising on quality, service, and effort are also crucial qualities. Zaxby’s places a great deal of importance on loyalty, teamwork, and honesty from their franchisees.
Number of U.S. units: 424
Champs Chicken was established in 1999 and takes pride in its modest origins. The company started in Missouri with its founders working out of their garage, driven by the desire to “do things better.” Today, Champs Chicken has grown to encompass hundreds of locations throughout the United States. The brand’s guiding principles are centered around providing exceptional service, offering the ultimate food experience, and fostering an enjoyable atmosphere for all.
Number of U.S. units: 1,047
Chester’s is a quick-service restaurant that was established in 1952. The restaurant specializes in serving fresh, never frozen, marinated chicken that’s double-breaded and fried using a secret family recipe. With more than 1,300 locations in convenience stores, truck stops, and supermarkets, Chester’s has been in business for over 50 years, and their employees are experts in frying with love and passion.
By opening a Chester’s franchise, you will be joining a company that values a winning attitude. Every employee is willing to perform any job, and success is achieved through teamwork. The company also values open and honest communication and encourages everyone to do the right thing, even when no one is watching. While hard work is essential, Chester’s also strives to foster a fun and enjoyable atmosphere.
Number of U.S. units: 271
For many, there’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a juicy piece of crispy fried chicken. Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken recognizes this love for delicious fried chicken with an unforgettable crunch. In 2002, Jinduk Seo had a dream to share his flavorful chicken recipes with the world, and thus, Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken was born.
As a Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken franchise owner, you’ll be a part of this dream to bring signature Asian dishes to the United States. The franchise offers a range of dining experiences, including traditional sit-down restaurants, sports bars, and quick-service restaurants, making it appealing to families, corporate clients, and busy professionals alike.
Number of U.S. units: 157
In 2008, Stacy Brown, a stay-at-home mom, founded Chicken Salad Chick after making and selling chicken salad in her neighborhood. However, the local health department restricted her from running the business from her home kitchen.
Today, the Chicken Salad Chick franchise has a unique position in the fast-casual space as the only restaurant chain specializing in homemade, fresh chicken salad. Their restaurants offer a wide range of sandwiches, desserts, soups, and chicken salad made with only the freshest and highest quality ingredients. The company is dedicated to providing more than just a delicious meal to their customers to ensure they keep coming back.
Number of U.S. units: 662
Buffalo Wild Wings is a well-known casual dining restaurant that was founded in 1982 and began franchising in 1991. It has grown to become one of the largest casual dining chains in the world, with franchises in multiple countries. The franchise is famous for its wings, specialty sauces, beer and sports. As a franchisee, you may join a global network of restaurants that offer affordable food in a casual and fun environment, providing a place for people and families to come together and enjoy a great meal.
If you need a qualified master or area franchise in Asia, or you want to make your business franchisable, VF Franchise Consulting is ready to support. Please not hesitate to contact us by email info@vffranchiseconsulting.com or visit us https://vffranchiseconsulting.com/services/
