Are you dreaming of opening your own chicken restaurant but don’t want to start from scratch? A chicken franchise might be the perfect solution! As someone who’s researched extensively in this space, I’m excited to share everything you need to know about starting your own chicken franchise in 2025.
Chicken remains one of America’s favorite proteins, with demand continuing to grow year after year. With the right approach, a chicken franchise can be both profitable and fulfilling as a business venture.
Why Consider a Chicken Franchise in 2025?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s talk about why chicken franchises make good business sense:
- Built-in brand recognition: Customers already know and trust established brands like KFC, Popeyes, and Chick-fil-A
- Proven business models: You’ll benefit from systems perfected over decades
- Ongoing support: Access to professionals who can help with marketing, operations, and training
- Purchasing power: Leverage the franchisor’s size for supplier discounts
- Menu diversity: Most chicken franchises offer variety beyond just fried chicken
- Innovation support: Established franchises continuously update menus and operations
One of my friends started a chicken franchise last year and was profitable within 6 months, largely due to the established systems and brand recognition!
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Chicken Franchise
Step 1: Research and Choose a Franchise Brand
This first step is critical! Consider these factors when selecting your franchise:
- Concept: Does the brand focus on fried chicken, rotisserie, wings, or tenders? Make sure it aligns with your interests and local market demand.
- Financials: Review startup costs, profit margins, royalty fees, and financing options.
- Growth trajectory: Look at recent brand expansion – this indicates success and future potential.
- Support structure: Examine training programs, operational assistance, and marketing support.
- Company culture: Ensure the brand’s values align with yours.
- Franchisee feedback: Check reviews from current franchisees for red flags.
I’d recommend consulting with a franchise attorney before making your final selection They can help you understand the legal implications of different franchise agreements
Step 2: Apply and Get Approved
Once you’ve chosen your preferred franchise, you’ll need to:
- Complete a detailed franchise application
- Provide proof of capital to cover startup costs
- Agree to background and credit checks
- Pay an application fee (which can be up to $50,000 for some franchises)
Be aware that franchise approval processes can be competitive – many franchisors approve just 1 out of every 10-15 candidates! Put your best foot forward by highlighting relevant experience and demonstrating your passion for the business.
Step 3: Sign the Franchise Agreement
If approved, you’ll receive a franchise agreement outlining all terms. Review this carefully with your lawyer and look for:
- Contract duration and renewal terms
- Required startup investment amount
- Ongoing royalties and marketing fees
- Supply restrictions
- Operational standards
- Training requirements
- Territory restrictions
Get any negotiated terms in writing before signing. This contract will be the foundation of your business relationship with the franchisor.
Step 4: Complete Training
Most franchisors provide comprehensive training that includes
- Classroom sessions on management systems and marketing
- On-the-job training at an existing location
- Food preparation protocols
- Ordering and inventory systems
- Customer service standards
- Point-of-sale software training
This training is invaluable – take full advantage of it! One franchise owner I spoke with said the training was worth the franchise fee alone because it helped him avoid costly mistakes.
Step 5: Set Up Your Location
Location can make or break your chicken franchise. Look for:
- High foot traffic areas (malls, entertainment districts)
- Easy accessibility for customers
- Ample parking
- Limited direct competition
- Strong brand awareness in the region
- Convenience for deliveries
Once you’ve secured a location, you’ll work with contractors to build out the space according to brand specifications.
Step 6: Market Pre-Opening
In the weeks leading up to opening, create buzz through:
- Social media announcements and special offers
- Local radio and TV promotions
- Community partnerships
- Print advertising
- Direct mail campaigns
- Collaborations with local influencers
We found that geofencing mobile ads targeting nearby customers were particularly effective for a recent franchise opening I consulted on.
Step 7: Host a Grand Opening Event
Make your grand opening memorable with:
- Free food samples or special deals
- Contests and giveaways
- Entertainment (music, face painting, etc.)
- Festive decorations
- Local dignitary attendance
- Social media content capture
A successful grand opening can create momentum that carries your business forward for months!
Step 8: Manage Ongoing Operations
Once open, focus on:
- Maintaining brand standards for cleanliness, service, and food quality
- Daily inventory management
- Financial reporting and analysis
- Staff motivation and monitoring
- Equipment maintenance
- Process improvement
- Regular communication with franchisor representatives
Step 9: Continue Marketing Initiatives
Keep customers coming back with:
- Loyalty programs
- Seasonal offerings
- Limited-time specialty items
- Geofencing mobile ads
- In-store events
- Delivery app partnerships
Track your results to identify which marketing tactics work best for your location.
Step 10: Consider Expansion
After achieving success with your first location, you might want to:
- Open additional stores in your territory
- Request additional territories
- Acquire existing franchise units
- Explore non-traditional locations (airports, stadiums)
Common Questions About Starting a Chicken Franchise
How much does it cost to start a chicken franchise?
Costs vary significantly depending on the brand and location. Initial investments can range from tens of thousands to millions of dollars. For example, a Chick-fil-A franchise has a very low initial franchise fee of $10,000, but they’re extremely selective. Other brands may require $250,000 to $1 million+ in startup capital.
Do I need previous experience in the food industry?
While helpful, prior experience isn’t always required. Most franchisors provide comprehensive training programs to equip you with necessary skills. That said, having some restaurant or management experience can strengthen your application.
What ongoing support can I expect from the franchisor?
Typically, franchisors offer support with:
- Marketing strategies
- Operational guidelines
- Staff training programs
- Supply chain management
- Technology systems
Can I choose my own suppliers?
Most franchisors have approved vendors that franchisees must use to maintain consistency. However, some may allow flexibility for certain locally-sourced ingredients.
How long does it take to open a chicken franchise?
From application to grand opening, the process usually takes several months to a year, depending on factors like location availability, construction timelines, and permit processes.
Can I operate multiple franchise locations?
Absolutely! Many franchisees expand to multiple locations after proving success with their first store. Multi-unit operators often receive additional benefits from franchisors.
Do I have to pay royalty fees?
Yes, most franchise agreements include ongoing royalty fees, typically calculated as a percentage of sales (often 4-8%). These fees fund the franchisor’s continued support and brand development.
Can I sell my franchise in the future?
Most franchise agreements allow for the sale of your business, though the franchisor typically retains the right to approve the buyer and terms.
Is a Chicken Franchise Right for You?
Starting any business requires serious consideration. A chicken franchise might be perfect if you:
- Have a passion for food service
- Prefer an established concept over building a brand from scratch
- Value ongoing support systems
- Enjoy customer and staff interactions
- Are willing to follow proven systems
- Can afford the required startup capital
I’ve seen many successful chicken franchisees who love the food business but didn’t want to face the high failure rate of independent restaurants. The franchise model gives them the best of both worlds – entrepreneurship with reduced risk.
Beyond Traditional Chicken Franchises: The Chicken Francese Example
If you’re interested in chicken but not sure about a full franchise, consider specialty chicken dishes like Chicken Francese that could become your signature item in a smaller restaurant concept.
Chicken Francese is a delicious Italian-American dish featuring:
- Thinly pounded chicken cutlets
- Dredged in flour then egg (different from piccata, which is egg then flour)
- Fast sautéed until golden
- Finished in a lemony butter and wine sauce
- Often served with angel hair pasta
The beauty of specialty dishes is that they can help differentiate your restaurant even if you’re not operating under a major franchise brand.
Final Thoughts
Starting a chicken franchise in 2025 can be a rewarding venture both financially and personally. The chicken industry continues to show strong growth, and consumers always seem to crave new and delicious chicken options.
By following the steps outlined above and doing your due diligence, you’ll be well on your way to creating a successful chicken franchise business. Remember to leverage the franchisor’s expertise while adding your own personal touch to make your location stand out.
Have you considered which chicken franchise brands interest you most? I’d love to hear about your franchise journey in the comments!
6 Basic Steps For Making Chicken Francese
Step 01 Pound the Chicken Cutlets
Step 02 Dredge in Flour Mixture
Step 03 Coat in Egg Mixture
Step 04 Lightly fry in Oil and Butter
Step 05 Make the Gravy
Step 06 Serve and Squirt with Lemon
Dredge in Flour Mixture
Pour the flour onto a platter or plate. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper and the 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Gently mix together with a fork.