Zaxbys Signs Second Chicagoland Development Deal as Midwest Expansion Gains Momentum

Midwest expansion deal

June 18, 2026 // Franchising.com // CHICAGO – Zaxbys®, the rapidly growing Georgia-based QSR franchise known for its Chicken Fingerz™, wings and 12 signature sauces, has signed a seven-restaurant development agreement in the Chicagoland area, marking the brand’s second multi-unit deal in the market.

The seven-restaurant agreement was signed by a local entrepreneur who will lead development efforts in the region. They were drawn to Zaxbys' strong unit economics, flexible development model, and growing momentum throughout the Midwest.

The announcement follows a separate multi-unit agreement signed in Chicagoland earlier in 2025, along with the opening of Zaxbys first restaurant in the Chicago DMA in Plainfield earlier this year. Together, these milestones underscore the brand’s growing momentum across the Midwest as Zaxbys continues expanding beyond its Southeastern roots.

Chicago market growth

Chicago remains a priority market for the brand due to its strong population growth in surrounding suburbs, high-volume commuter corridors, and favorable conditions for Zaxbys' flexible restaurant formats. As the brand expands beyond its Southeastern roots, Zaxbys continues to target high-growth markets where its off-premise-focused business model and modern prototypes can scale efficiently.

“The response we've seen in Chicagoland has validated what we believed about the market from the beginning,” said Russ Holland, Chief Development Officer at Zaxbys. “Between the success of our Plainfield opening and the strong interest from experienced operators, we're building meaningful momentum in the region. This second development agreement is another important step in establishing Zaxbys as a long-term growth brand throughout Chicago and the broader Midwest.”

Zaxbys has been serving up its signature sauces and bold flavors since its inception in 1990. Beloved for its 12 signature sauces and Chicken Fingerz™, Zaxbys has become a standout chicken concept in the QSR industry, growing to more than 1,000 locations across the U.S.

The brand’s commitment to quality and innovation has earned it numerous industry accolades, including recognition in Franchise Times’ 2024 Franchise Times Top 400 List, QSR Magazine’s 2024 Top 50 Fast-Food Chains, Entrepreneur, Forbes, and Newsweek. With a strong leadership team and a focus on long-term, sustainable growth, Zaxbys continues to stay true to its mission of delivering mouthwatering food and memorable experiences to its loyal fanbase.

Founded in 1990, Zaxbys® is committed to serving delicious Chicken Fingerz™, Zalads®, wings, and signature sauces with Southern hospitality and a modern twist. Zaxby's is a five-star VetFran partner and has been ranked a top franchise on Entrepreneur's esteemed Franchise 500 list each year since 2013. Zaxbys has over 1,000 locations in 22 states and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.

Zaxbys is a fast-growing QSR brand specializing in the highest quality chicken and sides. Established in 1990 in Statesboro, Georgia, the company pioneered the concept of serving chicken tenders as an entrée, a novel idea at the time.