Chick N Max – a next generation fast casual franchise specializing in chef-crafted sandwiches, golden fried tenders, and almond wood smoked chicken and wings – has signed a lease for its next location in Texas. The new restaurant in Lufkin is currently under construction and expected to open in the first quarter of next year.
The restaurant will be owned and operated by Aaron Johnson, a nearly 30-year veteran of the franchise industry who last year signed an area development agreement for 25 units across East Texas. He opened his first Chick N Max in the Houston suburb of Willis in May.
“We’re incredibly happy to celebrate this and each milestone with Aaron, who’s prior restaurant experience and knowledge of the market has been instrumental throughout the development process,” says Chick N Max founder and CEO Max Sheets.
Sheets adds, “Our continued ability to grow in Texas is also no doubt a testament to our revolutionary business model, the strength of our brand, and the loyalty of our customers.”
Founded in 2017 and franchising since 2021, Chick N Max offers a unique culinary experience with its 10 unique flavors of chef-crafted sandwiches made with crispy golden fried tenders or almond wood smoked pulled chicken. Some of those sandwiches include the Chicken and Waffles; the Loaded Bama with white Bama BBQ sauce, coleslaw, dill pickles; the Smoked Chicken BLT with pepper jack cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, Max’s signature sauce and pickles; and the Sriracha Hot Honey, featuring hand-breaded tenders, buttermilk garlic sauce, sriracha hot honey, bread and butter pickles on a brioche bun.
In addition, Chick N Max serves its signature almond wood smoked chicken in the form of wings, leg quarters, breast quarters, and half chicken.
Guests can complete their meal with a range of 10 homestyle sides including fries, onion rings, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, and smoked white beans; and 11 sauces that are made daily to ensure the highest quality and taste.
“Chick N Max has perfected a niche that truly differentiates itself from the competition. Our made-from-scratch menu has something for everyone, with options for those looking to indulge to guests looking for a healthier take on traditional fast-casual chicken offerings,” says Johnson.
The latest lease signing comes at a historic time for the prospering franchise. Chick N Max is set for tremendous growth in the coming years, thanks to an active franchise pipeline that stands at more than 50 restaurants across Kansas, South Dakota, and Texas. Company plans call for opening 5-7 new restaurants over the next 12 months and at least that many each year thereafter.