Chicken Salad Chick

Chicken Salad Chick is a fast-casual restaurant chain known for its diverse selection of made-from-scratch chicken salads, along with sandwiches, soups, and desserts. The company was founded in 2008 by Stacy and Kevin Brown in Auburn, Alabama. It began as a home-based business with Stacy selling her chicken salad door-to-door before opening the first storefront. The brand quickly gained popularity, and by 2012, it started franchising, which significantly accelerated its growth across the Southeast and beyond.

As of November 2025, Chicken Salad Chick operates over 315 locations in 22 states, with a strong foothold in the Southeast and ongoing expansion into the Midwest and Texas. The company is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, marking its transformation from a local favorite to a prominent regional player. The menu features more than a dozen chicken salad flavors, each named after individuals significant to the founder, complemented by fresh sides, gourmet soups, and signature desserts.

Chicken Salad Chick is recognized for its community-oriented approach, frequently collaborating with local organizations and hosting events to build neighborhood ties. The brand offers various store formats, including dine-in, takeout, drive-thru, and catering, which cater to different markets and consumer needs. Its growth strategy is robust, with new markets being explored through both corporate and franchise development, focusing on high-traffic retail centers and suburban areas.

For commercial real estate professionals, Chicken Salad Chick's consistent expansion and versatile store formats make it an attractive tenant for shopping centers and mixed-use developments. The brand's ability to offer stability and community engagement enhances its appeal in the real estate market.