Investing in Fried Chicken: The Six Best Franchise Opportunities

The fried chicken industry is sizzling with franchise opportunities that position owners to capture a strong return on investment while capitalizing on serious growth potential. As consumer demand for chicken continues to soar, investing in a chicken franchise could be the next right thing.

But, in the ever-saturated chicken market, how do you know which to choose? From the household name of Chick-fil-A to the standout twist offered by Pollo Campero*, there’s something for everyone. Here are six of the top chicken franchise opportunities to consider.

Chick-fil-A

Unit Count: 3,000+

Initial Investment: $10,000 — must be non-gifted, non-borrowed funds

Chick-fil-A is known by consumers everywhere, but that isn’t the only reason franchisees love it. While the business model has strong profit potentials, it’s actually quite affordable for franchisees to get into. Though opening a Chick-fil-A restaurant can cost over $2.7 million, franchisees are only responsible for the $10,000 franchise fee. The process is highly selective, but if you make it through, a Chick-fil-A franchise can be a great investment.

Church’s Texas Chicken

Unit Count: 1,500+

Initial Investment: $676,500 - $1,464,335

Ranked one of the fastest-growing brands in the industry by Entrepreneur, Church’s Texas Chicken has established over 820 U.S. locations and a network over 1,500-plus around the world. The franchise has a strong segment of franchisees who own three or more locations, indicating a viable option for entrepreneurs aspiring to multi-unit ownership.

Wingstop

Unit Count: 2,000+

Initial Investment: $259,400 - $912,100

Wingstop considers itself to be a group of “wing experts.” With over 20 years of experience in the industry, the brand has had plenty of time to perfect its wings — and business model — and has since done a great job of catching the attention of consumers and investors alike. 

Dave’s Hot Chicken

Unit Count: 180+

Initial Investment: $619,800 - $1,963,000

Dave’s Hot Chicken has nearly 200 open restaurants, but it has hundreds more in development. With a simple menu consisting of four combo options, three sides and seven heat levels, the brand has built a streamlined model. 

Though it has a relatively small footprint, Dave’s Hot Chicken has strict ownership requirements. Franchisees must own or operate at least five quick-service or fast-casual restaurants in the market, they cannot own any other fried chicken concepts, and they must have strong metrics and a referral from a current franchisor. With aggressive growth plans and high expectations of its owners, Dave’s Hot Chicken could be on its way to becoming the next big name in chicken franchising.

Pollo Campero

1851 Brand Page 

Unit Count: 350+

Initial Investment: $1,287,250 - $2,491,500

Pollo Campero is a Central American chicken franchise. Founded in Guatemala, the brand has since seen steady growth in the U.S., passing the 100-unit mark in the states earlier this year. With a decades-old family recipe and flavorful-to-the-bone chicken, Pollo Campero brings a new twist to an American go-to meal, positioning franchisees to capture and retain guests’ attention.

Buffalo Wild Wings

Unit Count: 1,200+

Initial Investment: $2,481,500 - $4,804,800

Buffalo Wild Wings is a sports bar franchise concept that, while offering a diverse menu, places a huge spotlight on its chicken offerings. As part of the larger Inspire Brands network, Buffalo Wild Wings has a depth and breadth of knowledge and experience many other franchisors simply cannot offer.

Every great franchisee had help buying a franchise. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit www.1851growthclub.com and start your journey.