Slim Chickens to Open First California Locations

Fast-Growing Better-Chicken Brand Expands with Six-Unit Development Agreement with Established Multi-Unit Operator

February 17, 2026 // FranchisePR.com // CALIFORNIA — Slim Chickens, a leading fast casual franchise in the better-chicken segment featuring dine-in and drive-thru service, announced today a six-unit development agreement that will bring the brand to California for the first time. The agreement is an amendment to an existing development deal with Roper Foods, LLC, an experienced restaurant operator currently developing Slim Chickens locations in Nevada.

The agreement includes planned development across several counties, with the first new location expected to open in Sacramento County. The deal reflects growing demand for premium, chicken-first QSR concepts in high-density markets and Slim Chickens’ disciplined approach to regional expansion.

Roper Foods, LLC is an experienced restaurant operator currently developing Slim Chickens locations in Northern Nevada. The group opened its first Slim Chickens restaurant in the Reno market in 2023 and most recently opened its second location in July 2025, with additional development underway across the Sunbelt. The amended agreement reflects the group’s continued confidence in the brand and its ability to resonate with new customers as it prepares to introduce Slim Chickens to California for the first time.

“Slim Chickens stood out to us as a brand with strong momentum and a clear long-term vision,” said a representative for Roper Foods, LLC. “The brand’s focus on quality, Southern hospitality and operational support made this expansion a natural next step for our team, and we’re confident Slim Chickens will resonate with guests as we introduce it to California.”

Franchisees benefit from a range of proven development options, like freestanding drive-thrus, endcaps, conversions, in-line restaurants, drive-thru-only Fly-Thru formats, and non-traditional locations. allowing operators to adapt to varied real estate and trade areas. Beyond domestic growth, Slim Chickens is also accelerating its international expansion, reinforcing its position as a global powerhouse.

“Expanding into California is an important step for Slim Chickens, and it’s one we’re approaching with the right partners,” said Jackie Lobdell, Vice President of Franchise Development at Slim Chickens. “Roper Foods has demonstrated the operational discipline and market insight needed to grow the brand responsibly in a highly competitive environment.”

Slim Chickens remains committed to awarding franchise opportunities to qualified multi-unit operators who are looking to invest in a differentiated and scalable fast-casual concept. Nearly 70% of Slim Chickens’ multi-unit franchisees are actively developing, a powerful testament to the brand’s momentum. With more than 1,000 units in development, Slim Chickens offers prime multi-unit development territories, a passionate leadership team, and a world-class franchisee support system.

For more information on the Slim Chickens franchise opportunity, visit https://slimchickensfranchise.com or connect with us on LinkedIn at Slim Chickens LinkedIn.

About Slim Chickens
Slim Chickens, a leading fast casual franchise that features dine-in and drive-through in the better-chicken segment, opened in 2003 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Offering high-quality food with a focus on fresh, delicious ingredients, the brand prides itself on its Southern flair and commitment to hospitality, all in a fast-casual setting. Food is cooked to order, and the differentiated menu features chicken tenders, fresh salads, sandwiches, chicken and waffles, chicken wings, and unique side items, alongside 14 house dipping sauces.

SOURCE Slim Chickens

Media Contact:
Brooke Sutcliffe
(716) 908-3812