5 of the Best Chicken Franchises and How to Choose

You’ve seen the undeniable popularity of chicken restaurants, and now you’re considering diving into the world of chicken franchises. It’s a lucrative field, but with so many options and factors to consider, where do you begin? Explore different chicken franchise choices, from fried chicken to wings and more.

Understanding the Different Types of Chicken Franchises

Chicken franchises come in various flavors and styles. Broadly, they can be categorized into two types: those that specialize exclusively in chicken and those where chicken is part of a more extensive menu.

• Chicken-only franchises: These are establishments that focus solely on chicken — fried chicken, grilled chicken, chicken sandwiches, and wings. Their specialization allows for a streamlined menu, often leading to more efficient kitchen operation and inventory management.
• Diverse menu franchises: These restaurants offer chicken among a variety of other dishes. Teriyaki Madness is a prime example of a well-crafted Asian-inspired menu that makes it much more than a chicken franchise. This approach caters to a broader customer base and can be an advantage in areas with diverse culinary preferences.

Choosing Between Specialized or Diverse Chicken Franchises

Your decision here hinges on your target market and personal business preferences.

• Specialized chicken franchises: If you’re passionate about a particular type of chicken cuisine (think: wing franchise) and aim to operate in an area with high demand for it, a specialized chicken franchise can be a gold mine. The focused menu simplifies operations but remember, your market is also narrower.
• Diverse menu franchises: Opting for a fast-casual franchise with a broader menu can be a safer bet in areas with diverse tastes or where chicken isn’t the primary preference. It allows flexibility and can attract a wider range of customers, but it also means a more complex operation and potentially higher overhead costs.

Profitability of Chicken Franchises

The profitability of a chicken franchise varies based on several factors, including location, brand recognition, and operational efficiency. Generally, chicken-only franchises benefit from lower operational costs due to a simpler menu and supply chain. However, franchises with diverse menus can potentially generate higher revenue by appealing to a broader customer base.

Most Popular Chicken Franchises

When considering popularity, look for brands that resonate with consumers and have a proven track record. Some of the most popular chicken franchises, according to Entrepreneur and Franchise Chatter, include:

• KFC: A global giant known for its fried chicken, KFC is a leader in the chicken sector, with over 3,800 locations across big cities and small towns alike.
• Popeyes: Famous for its New Orleans-style fried chicken, authentic creole sides, and a fried chicken sandwich to rival Chik-fil-A’s, Popeyes is a global brand with franchising opportunities around the world.
• Wingstop: Wingstop locations boast low overhead and a small footprint, with higher sales per square foot. They specialize in a variety of flavored chicken wings.
• El Pollo Loco: Known for its unique flame-grilled chicken and Latin flavors, El Pollo Loco is available in many domestic markets with plans for expansion.
• Chicken Salad Chick: With neither grilled nor fried chicken on their menu, Chicken Salad Chick stands out with its menu of over a dozen chicken salads as well as soups and sandwiches, in a fast-casual setting.

These brands not only have strong customer loyalty but also offer comprehensive support to franchisees, which can be crucial for your success.

Drawbacks of Owning a Chicken-Focused Franchise

While specializing in chicken has its advantages, there are also drawbacks to consider:

• Market saturation: In some areas, the market for chicken restaurants can be saturated, making it challenging to stand out.
• Limited audience: Your customer base might be limited to chicken enthusiasts, potentially reducing the number of repeat customers.
• Vulnerability to market changes: Being specialized means you’re more susceptible to changes in the poultry market, such as price fluctuations or supply chain disruptions.

Making Your Decision

In choosing the right chicken franchise, consider these key factors:

• Market research: Understand the local market and customer preferences. Is there a demand for a specialized chicken restaurant, or would a diverse menu be more appealing?
• Brand strength: Consider franchises with strong brand recognition and customer loyalty.
• Support and training: Look for franchises that offer comprehensive training and ongoing support.
• Financials: Review the initial investment, ongoing fees, and profitability projections. Ensure they align with your financial goals and capabilities.
• Personal preference: Ultimately, choose a franchise that aligns with your passion and business style.

Beyond Chicken

Remember, in the world of franchising, it’s not just about serving great food; it’s about creating a sustainable business model that resonates with your customers and stands the test of time. Whether you choose a specialized chicken-focused franchise or one with a more diverse menu like Teriyaki Madness, success lies in understanding your market, aligning with a strong brand, and being prepared for the operational and financial aspects of the business.

Teriyaki Madness a leader in two of the largest restaurant sectors: Asian food and chicken. Teriyaki Madness combines healthy, flavorful food that’s affordable and convenient for customers of all taste preferences.

With estimated startup costs ranging from $312,500–$731,260* and $1.10 million in average unit volume (AUV), Teriyaki Madness offers qualified investors the opportunity to join a brand that is quickly expanding with both single- and multi-unit deals being signed every day.

To learn more about joining Teriyaki Madness, download our franchise report.

* Refer to our Franchise Disclosure Document.