New Jersey residents will soon have a new chicken tender option, as Slim Chickens announced a franchise agreement to bring 17 locations to the Garden State. The Arkansas-based quick-service restaurant, known for its tenders, wings, and signature sauces, is setting its sights on a significant expansion in the Northeast, with New Jersey as a key part of that growth. The first of these restaurants is anticipated to open in 2027.
This isn’t Slim Chickens’ first attempt at establishing a presence in New Jersey. A single location briefly operated on Route 31 in Flemington in 2021, but closed after only a few months. The company is hoping for a more sustained success with this larger-scale rollout, focusing initial development efforts on Middlesex, Mercer, and Essex counties. While specific addresses remain undisclosed, the franchise operator is a New Jersey-based group with established local market knowledge.
A Growing Footprint in the Northeast
The New Jersey expansion is part of a larger strategy for Slim Chickens to increase its presence throughout the Northeast. The company is also actively targeting markets in Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Ohio. According to Jackie Lobdell, Vice President of Franchise Development for Slim Chickens, “This agreement reflects the momentum Slim Chickens continues to build with experienced operators who see the long-term potential of a chicken-first brand built to scale.”
Slim Chickens currently operates over 250 locations globally. The company reports that nearly 75% of its multi-unit franchisees are currently developing new locations, with over 1,000 units in development overall. This indicates a strong level of confidence in the brand’s growth potential among its existing operators.
What’s on the Menu?
For those unfamiliar with the chain, Slim Chickens specializes in chicken tenders and wings, alongside a selection of sandwiches. The menu also includes a variety of sides, such as mac and cheese, fried mushrooms, potato salad, and Texas toast. Customers can also enjoy hand-spun milkshakes and dessert “jars” featuring flavors like Nilla banana pudding and chocolate brownie.
Franchise Flexibility and Growth
Slim Chickens offers franchisees a range of development options, including freestanding drive-thrus, endcaps, conversions, in-line restaurants, drive-thru-only “Fly-Thru” formats, and non-traditional locations. This flexibility allows operators to adapt to different real estate opportunities and trade areas. The representative from the New Jersey operating group stated, “We were looking to grow with a brand that delivers great food and offers a guest experience that feels genuine. Slim Chickens’ appeal, strong leadership team and commitment to quality made it the right fit, and we look forward to bringing Slims to New Jersey.”
As the company prepares for this expansion, potential customers in New Jersey can anticipate the arrival of the chicken tender chain in 2027. Further details regarding specific locations will be announced as they become available.
What are your thoughts on Slim Chickens coming to New Jersey? Share your opinions in the comments below.
