Golden Opportunities — Why These Chicken Franchises Are Sizzling in 2024

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Golden Opportunities — Why these chicken franchises are a hot commodity in 2024 (194590000)

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Chicken franchises are a great choice for fast food favorites. They offer an array of delicious flavors and crispy treats. These franchises, which offer everything from classic chicken fried recipes to new and innovative ways of preparing poultry, hold a very special place in food lovers’ hearts. Franchise opportunities within the poultry industry are a great way for entrepreneurs to carve out a niche market.

We invite you to join us for a delicious journey through the Top Chicken Franchises in 2024. This is according to the ranking of the 2024 franchise 500. These franchises, which range from beloved local joints to chains that have gained national acclaim and are praised by customers, serve crispy, juicy goodness. Grab a snack and prepare to cluck your way through the top chicken franchises of today.

Consider franchise ownership. Start now by creating a personalized list of franchises based on your budget, lifestyle and interests.

1. Popeyes Lousiana Kitchen

  • Founded: 1972
  • Since: 1976
  • Rankings: 3
  • The number of units is: 4,796
  • Change in units: Over 3 Years, +34.2%
  • 9Initial investment: $471,000-$3,700,000
  • Leadership: Jeff Klein, President
  • Company: Restaurant Brands Int’l.

Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, a New Orleans style fried chicken chain that is known for delicious food at affordable prices, was established in 1972 by Al Copeland as Chicken on the Run. The franchise expanded quickly after rebranding as Popeyes, and introduced spicy fried poultry. It now has over 4,000 outlets in the U.S., and more than 30 other countries. It remains one of the leading fast food chains more than 50 years after its founding. Popeyes franchises offer the chance to be a part of a successful, quick-service brand that is popular both in and outside the United States.

Click here to learn more about Popeye franchise opportunities.

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2. KFC

  • Founded: 1930
  • Since: 1952
  • Rankings: 12
  • The number of units is: 30,680
  • Change in units: Over 3 Years, you can earn +19.5%
  • Investment: $1,900,000-$3,800,000
  • Leadership: Tarun Lal, President
  • Company: Yum! Brands Inc.

KFC is a popular franchise in the fast food industry. Its iconic recipe for fried chicken, created by Colonel Harland, has made it one of its most famous products. KFC has more than 28 000 restaurants in 115 different countries. It offers a unique menu and instant brand recognition. KFC franchises provide access to an enormous customer base. In the U.S., approximately 185,000,000 people are exposed to KFC advertisements every week. Menu expansions, such as chicken wings, sandwich and side dishes, are a way to maintain market appeal and keep customers interested.

Click here to learn more about KFC franchising opportunities.

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3. Wingstop

  • Founded: 1994
  • Since: 1998
  • Rankings: 14
  • The number of units is: 2,352
  • Change in units: Over 3 Years, +44.8%
  • Investment: $259,000-$912,000
  • Leadership: Michael Skipworth, President & CEO
  • Company: Wingstop Restaurants Inc.

Since its founding in 1994, Wingstop has enjoyed great success as a fast food franchise. It is known for serving buffalo-style wings. Wingstop, with over 2,000 locations, offers excellent corporate support and comprehensive training materials to franchisees. It also has relatively low start-up costs and royalties fees when compared to others. Wingstop also offers a franchise that is attractive to aspiring entrepreneurs because of its focus on online orders.

Click here to learn more about Wingstop franchising opportunities.

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4. The Slim Chicken

  • Founded: 2003
  • Since: 2011
  • Rankings: 84
  • The number of units is: 251
  • Change in units: Over 3 Years, +109.2%
  • Investment: $1,500,000-$4,400,000
  • Leadership: Sam Rothschild, COO & Partner
  • Company: The Slim Chicken

Slim Chickens, founded in 2003, specializes in serving freshly prepared chicken that is hand-breaded. It has more than 200 outlets and offers chicken main courses with side dishes like Southern-fried pickles, as well as desserts in Mason Jars. Slim Chickens focuses on community service, catering and various events. The ideal franchisee should be able to prioritize customer satisfaction and quality food, while having a hospitality or restaurant background is preferred. It is essential that the franchisee has sufficient financial resources to pay for fees up front and on-going, and meet any net worth requirements.

Click here to learn more about Slim Chickens franchising opportunities.

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5. Golden Chick

  • Founded: 1967
  • Since: 1972
  • Rankings: 86
  • The number of units is: 231
  • Change in units: Over 3 Years, +15.2%
  • Investment: $810,000-$1,900,000
  • Leadership: Mark Parmerlee, CEO
  • Company: Golden Franchising Corp.

Golden Chick was founded as Golden Fried Chicken in 1967 and then rebranded to Golden Chick in 1996. It offers franchising opportunities in more than 200 locations across the U.S., with franchisees from all walks of life, such as military veterans, corporate professionals and others, who are attracted to the warm atmosphere and high-quality service. Golden Chick’s experienced team provides franchisees with marketing and advertising support, as well as training. Prospective franchisees must be financially prepared for the initial fees and on-going costs, as well as meet set requirements for liquid capital and net worth.

Click here to learn more about Golden Chick franchising opportunities.

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6. Bojangles

  • Founded: 1977
  • Since: 1978
  • Rankings: 115
  • The number of units is: 813
  • Change in units: +4.9% in 3 Years
  • Investment: $720,000-$3,800,000
  • Leadership: Jose Armario, CEO
  • Company: The Jordan Company and Durational Capital Management LP

Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits offers franchises in nearly 800 U.S. locations. Bojangles’ is known for the variety of its menu and for its emphasis on sales all day long. It also has a good reputation in terms of franchise support and collaboration. New franchisees are offered marketing assistance and help in selecting a location. They also benefit from the expertise of industry veterans.

Click here to learn more about Bojangles franchising opportunities.

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7. Zaxby’s

  • Founded: 1990
  • Since: 1994
  • Rankings: 133
  • The number of units is: 960
  • Change in units: Over 3 Years, +5.7%
  • Investment: $1,400,000-$3,300,000
  • Leadership: Mike Mettler is the CDO
  • Company: Zaxby SPE Franchisor LLC

Zaxby’s has over 900 franchised outlets in the South, which offer buffalo wings, salads and sandwiches. Franchisees are sought who demonstrate community leadership and quality. Zaxby’s can offer high returns due to the growing popularity of healthier options for fast food. Financially prepared franchisees are required to pay initial fees and on-going costs, as well as meet set requirements for liquid capital and net worth.

Click here to learn more about Zaxby franchise opportunities.

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8. Buffalo Wild Wings

  • Founded: 1982
  • Since: 1991
  • Rankings: 195
  • The number of units is: 1,250
  • Change in units: Over 3 Years, -1.0%
  • Investment: $2,900,000-$4,800,000
  • Leadership: John Bowie Brand President
  • Company: Inspire Brands

Buffalo Wild Wings is a franchised restaurant that was founded in 1982. It offers beer, wings and sports themed dining. Over 1,200 franchises specialize in specialty sauces and wings. Franchisees who are part of Inspire Brands’ family must follow standards, but they can also be creative in their decor or promotions. The ideal candidate is someone who has a love for community, food and building businesses. Buffalo Wild Wings is a great opportunity to join a worldwide network that offers affordable dining and a fun, casual atmosphere.

Click here to learn more about Buffalo Wild Wings franchising opportunities.

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9. Chester’s

  • Founded: 1952
  • Since: 2004
  • Rankings: 267
  • The number of units is: 1,062
  • Change in units: Over 3 Years, -16.0%
  • Investment: $28,000-$297,000
  • Leadership: Wynn Gilles, Director
  • Company: N/A

Chester’s was founded in 1952 and specializes in double-breaded, fresh, marinated fried chicken made with a family secret recipe. The brand, which has over 1,000 stores in truck stops, convenience stores and supermarkets began franchising its stores in 2004, after initially only focusing on company-owned outlets. Menu items include bone-in, tender chickens, biscuits, and potato wedges or mashed potatoes. Chester’s promotes teamwork and honesty, and offers extensive support and training for its franchisees. The company provides guidance in all aspects of operations including upselling, waste management, and margin calculations.

Click here to learn more about Chester franchise opportunities.

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10. Wings Etc.

  • Founded: 1994
  • Since: 2005
  • Rankings: 383
  • The number of units is: 80
  • Change in units: Over 3 Years, +3.9%
  • Investment: $368,000-$2,600,000
  • Leadership: Rob Hensmann is CEO
  • Company: Wings Etc. Inc.

Wings Etc. is the perfect place to enjoy a family-friendly meal and a relaxed atmosphere. This grill and pub was founded in 1994 by Jim Weaver. They have perfected their art of cooking hearty food, such as burgers, wraps, and jumbo chicken wings. There’s plenty to do, whether you want to watch the big game on the flat screen TVs or challenge your friends in arcade video games. Wings Etc. has more than fifty franchises in the United States and 25 corporate owned locations. Wings Etc. continues to be a favorite destination for those families looking for wholesome entertainment and tasty food.

Click here to learn more about Wings Etc. Click here to learn more about franchise opportunities.

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11. Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken

  • Founded: 1966
  • Since: 1967
  • Rankings: 415
  • The number of units is: 130
  • Change in units: Over 3 Years, 0.0%
  • Investment: $568,000-$2,000,000
  • Leadership: Ryan Weaver, CEO
  • Company: Artemis Restaurant Corp.

Established in 1966, Lee’s Famous recipe Chicken is a fast-food restaurant chain that’s known for their delicious biscuits, chicken dishes and homestyle side dishes. Lee’s, with over 50 years of experience in the restaurant industry, has refined its recipe to provide customers with a delicious and satisfying meal. With its focus on traditional cooking techniques and quality ingredients, the franchise has gained a following in all of its locations. Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken is committed to providing mouthwatering classic Southern food with friendly service.

Click here to learn more about Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken franchising opportunities.

Here are the top 15 fast food franchises, from global giants like McDonald’s and Taco Bell to emerging brands such as Crumbl.

12. Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken

  • Founded: 2002
  • Since: 2006
  • Rankings: 474
  • The number of units is: 448
  • Change in units: Over 3 Years, +19.1%
  • Investment: $191,000-$1,200,000
  • Leadership: Amanda Millikan, VP, Development
  • Company: Bonchon Franchise LLC

Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken was founded by Jinduk Seo in 2002. It offers double-fried, hand-battered chicken, with signature sauces. It has grown to more than 400 outlets since 2006 when it began franchising. The franchisees have access to a variety of dining options that appeal to sports enthusiasts, families and professionals. Restaurant experience is not required, although owners should be prepared to get their hands dirty. Bonchon’s brand support and strength has been recognized by Entrepreneur Franchise 500.

Learn more about Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken Click here to learn more about franchises.

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13. Dave’s Hot Chicken

  • Founded: 2018
  • Since: 2019
  • Rankings: 482
  • The number of units is: 211
  • Change in units: Over 3 Years, +1 072.2%
  • Investment: $620,000-$2,000,000
  • Leadership: Bill Phelps, CEO
  • Company: DHC Franchise

Dave’s Hot Chicken, originally conceived as a concept by four friends who fried chicken on a parking garage with only one fryer in the beginning, has grown into a franchise that boasts more than 150 outlets worldwide. Drake, a well-known artist and investor has been attracted by its meteoric success. Dave’s Hot Chicken has grown from humble beginnings into an international success. Its signature spicy chicken dishes and innovative fast-casual approach continue to attract taste buds.

Learn more about Dave’s Hot Chicken Click here to learn more about franchises.

Related: Are you a good candidate for franchising? You can find out by asking yourself these 9 questions

14. Champs Chicken

  • Founded: 1998
  • Since: 2013
  • Rankings: N/R
  • The number of units is: 409
  • Change in units: +0.7% in 3 Years
  • Investment: $9,000-$349,000
  • Leadership: Shawn Burcham is the CEO
  • Company: Pro Food Systems Inc.

Champs Chicken was founded in 1999 and takes pride in its humble origins. In the garage of the Missouri founders, the company was born. “doing things better.” Champs Chicken is now available in hundreds of restaurants across the nation. Its core values are incredible service, the ultimate food experience, and a good time.

Learn more about Champs Chicken Click here to learn more about franchises.

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15. Wings and rings

  • Founded: 1984
  • Since: 1988
  • Rankings: N/R
  • The number of units is: 87
  • Change in units: Over 3 Years, +7.4%
  • Investment: $1,500,000-$2,00,000
  • Leadership: Nader Masadeh is the CEO
  • Company: Buffalo Wings & Rings LLC

Wings and Rings (formerly Buffalo Wings and Rings) has become a popular sports-inspired chain of restaurants with more than 80 outlets in the U.S. and abroad. It is a popular destination among foodies and sports fans alike for its vibrant and flavorful atmosphere. Wings and Rings is looking for franchisees who have a strong understanding of their local market and experience managing several restaurants. They should also be passionate about community involvement. A diverse menu featuring the brand’s famous onion rings and buffalo wings, along with VIP service, creates an exciting experience for customers.

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