Chicken Salad Chick celebrates record year

Chicken Salad Chick reported that it closed out 2025 in record fashion.

The fast-casual chicken salad restaurant concept said it awarded nearly 100 franchise deals last year, which is the brand’s strongest to date. Additionally, Chicken Salad Chick opened 42 new locations in 13 states in 2025—another company record for the franchise.

Growth arrived from both new and existing franchise partners—17 existing franchisees expanded into new territories while 12 new franchise partners joined the brand. Chicken Salad Chick also initiated development into five new states this past year, including Arizona, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, and Utah. New openings included the fast-casual concept’s first restaurants in Kansas and Maryland.

When it comes to market coverage, Chicken Salad Chick reports that Florida and Texas led the way in overall growth with nine and seven new locations, while Kansas, Maryland, and New Mexico “emerged as fast-growing markets with strong early performance.”

According to Chicken Salad Chick, its success in the prior year was driven by partnering with proven operators.

“This highly selective approach continues to resonate with sophisticated multi-unit and multi-brand operators seeking a scalable concept backed by a strong brand and operational support,” Chicken Salad Chick said in a statement issued by the company. “By pairing thoughtful market selection with experienced franchisees, Chicken Salad Chick has built an authentic, highly differentiated concept with strong unit economics and a culture that resonates with guests.”

“We don’t spend time chasing what others are doing. We stay focused on who we are,” said Mark Verges, vice president of franchise development at Chicken Salad Chick. “That means serving the best chicken salad with genuine hospitality in clean, welcoming restaurants, and continuously refining what works. We live our mission of spreading joy, enriching lives, and serving others every day. I’m excited for the future of Chicken Salad Chick and how well positioned the brand is for its next phase of growth.”

Founded in 2008 by Stacy and Kevin Brown in Auburn, Alabama, Chicken Salad Chick has grown to 325 locations in 22 states. The brand is now based in Atlanta, Georgia.