How Many Chicken Express Locations Are There? Uncover the Southern Fried Goldmine!

Hey there, chicken lovers! If you’re like me, you’ve probably been wondering how far across the map Chicken Express’s crispy, juicy goodness goes. Well, I have the answer right here: as of mid-2025, there are 240 Chicken Express restaurants in the US! That’s right, 240 places where you can get their famous iced tea or some of their delicious fried chicken. But that ain’t the whole story. Stay with me as I talk about where these joints are, how this Southern gem got its start, and why it’s so popular in some parts of the country. Let’s dig in!.

The Big Number: 240 and Counting!

I ain’t gonna make you wait for the goods. Chicken Express, that regional fast-food champ, has exactly 240 restaurants scattered across the US as of June 2025. That’s a whole lotta places to get your fix of tenders, catfish, or those drool-worthy sides. But here’s the kicker—most of these spots are huddled up in one state. Can ya guess which one? If you said Texas, you’re bang on! We’ll get into the nitty-gritty of where they’re at in just a sec, but for now, know that if you’re huntin’ for Chicken Express, you’ve got 240 chances to strike gold.

Now, 240 might not sound huge compared to giants like KFC, but for a chain that sticks to its Southern roots, that’s mighty impressive. It shows they’ve got a loyal fanbase and a recipe for success (pun intended!). So, how did they get here, and where exactly are these locations? Let’s break it down, y’all.

A Quick History of Chicken Express: From One Spot to a Southern Empire

Let’s rewind a bit and talk about how Chicken Express even came to be. Picture this: it’s 1988, and in a lil’ town called Benbrook, Texas, a couple named Richard and Nancy Stuart decide to open up a fast-food joint. They’re thinkin’, “We’re gonna serve up some proper fried chicken, the kind that makes folks come back for more.” And boy, did they nail it! That first location was just the start of what’s now a full-blown regional empire under their company, Stuart Group Inc.

From that single spot in Benbrook, they’ve grown over the past few decades into a name that folks in the Southern US know and love. Their headquarters? Right in Burleson, Texas, keepin’ it close to where it all began. I reckon it’s that down-home feel that keeps people hooked. They ain’t tryin’ to be everywhere in the world—they’re focused on doin’ it right in their own backyard. And with 240 locations today, I’d say they’ve built somethin’ pretty darn special.

Where Are These 240 Chicken Express Locations? Texas Takes the Cake!

Alright let’s get to the meat of it (or the chicken, I guess!). If you’re wonderin’ where you can find a Chicken Express the answer is pretty much “down South.” These guys are all about the Southern United States, and their spread reflects that big time. Here’s the lowdown on where their 240 spots are hangin’ out

• Texas: Holy cow, Texas is basically Chicken Express central! They’ve got a whoppin’ 208 locations here, which is about 87% of all their restaurants. That means if you’re cruisin’ through the Lone Star State, you’ve got a real good chance of stumblin’ upon one. We’re talkin’ a spot for every 139,000 or so folks in Texas. That’s some serious coverage!
• Oklahoma: Comin’ in second, Oklahoma has 21 locations, makin’ up about 9% of the total. Not as crazy as Texas, but still a decent showing. That’s roughly one spot per 188,000 people.
• Arkansas: Over in Arkansas, you’ll find 10 locations, which is around 4% of their total. It works out to about one restaurant for every 301,000 folks. Still a solid presence if you’re in the right area.
• Louisiana: And then there’s Louisiana, with just 1 location. Yup, a single lonely spot, representin’ less than 1% of the chain. That’s one for all 4.6 million people in the state. Better hope you’re nearby if you’re cravin’ it!

Here’s a quick table to sum it up nice and neat

Friends, if you’re not in these four states, you’re out of luck. Chicken Express doesn’t have any locations in California, New York, or Florida. They’re sticking to the South, which I kind of like. They know their customers and are meeting their needs.

Zoomin’ In: Top Cities for Chicken Express Fans

Now, within these states, some cities are straight-up Chicken Express hot zones. If you’re in Texas especially, certain towns got more locations than you can shake a drumstick at. Here’s a peek at the cities with the most spots to get your fix:

• Fort Worth, Texas: Top dog with 11 locations. Man, if you’re in Fort Worth, you’re in chicken heaven. Plenty of options to choose from!
• Arlington, Texas: Comin’ in with 5 spots. Not too shabby for a quick bite after a game or whatever.
• San Antonio, Texas: Got 3 locations, tied with a few others. Big city, decent spread.
• Amarillo, Texas: Also rockin’ 3 spots. Northern Texas ain’t missin’ out.
• Lubbock, Texas: Another 3 locations here. College town with some tasty eats!
• Dallas, Texas: Yup, 3 spots in the big D. You’d think there’d be more, but hey, it’s somethin’.
• New Braunfels, Texas: Matchin’ with 3 locations. Small town, big flavor.

There are also many more cities with two locations, such as Beaumont, Abilene, and Cisco in Texas, which all have two locations. The point is that it won’t be hard to find a Chicken Express in Texas, especially near Fort Worth or Arlington. They’ve got ya covered.

What’s on the Menu at Chicken Express? A Taste of the South

Okay, now that we know where to look, let’s talk about why Chicken Express is worth the trouble. If you’ve never been, let me show you what you can expect at any of their 240 joints. They really like Southern comfort food, and they do it in a stylish way.

• Fried Chicken: Their bread and butter (or should I say, their batter and grease?). Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor. You can get it by the piece or in a meal with sides.
• Chicken Tenders: Perfect for dippin’! They’re tender, juicy, and just beg for some gravy or sauce. I could eat a whole bucket, no lie.
• Catfish: Yup, they ain’t just chicken folks. Their fried catfish is a hidden gem, especially if you’re into seafood with a Southern twist.
• Sides Galore: We’re talkin’ mashed potatoes, coleslaw, fried okra, and biscuits that’ll make ya wanna slap somebody. All the classics to round out your meal.
• Iced Tea by the Gallon: This is their secret weapon. They sell their sweet tea in huge jugs, and lemme tell ya, it’s refreshin’ as heck on a hot Texas day. I’ve grabbed a gallon for a family cookout before, and it’s gone in a flash.

Their menu ain’t fancy, but it don’t need to be. It’s hearty, it’s homey, and it hits the spot every dang time. Whether you’re at one of their 208 Texas spots or that lone Louisiana outpost, you’re gettin’ the same down-home goodness.

Why Chicken Express Sticks to the South: A Regional Powerhouse

Now, you might be thinkin’, “Why ain’t Chicken Express everywhere? Why only 240 spots, and why just four states?” Well, I reckon it’s all about knowin’ their lane and ownin’ it. Chicken Express ain’t tryin’ to compete with the global bigwigs who’ve got thousands of stores worldwide. Nah, they’re keepin’ it tight-knit, focusin’ on the Southern US where folks get their vibe.

Texas bein’ the heart of their operation makes total sense. It’s where they started, where their headquarters still sits in Burleson, and where the culture of fried chicken and sweet tea just fits like a glove. With 208 locations in Texas alone, they’ve basically claimed the state as their playground. And spillin’ over into nearby states like Oklahoma and Arkansas? That’s just smart. Keep it regional, keep it familiar.

I gotta say, there’s somethin’ cool about a chain that don’t feel the need to spread too thin. They’re not in New York or Cali, and that’s fine by me. It makes findin’ a Chicken Express feel like discoverin’ a lil’ piece of Southern soul. And with 240 spots, they’ve got enough reach to satisfy their fans without losin’ that local charm.

Fun Facts About Chicken Express You Didn’t Know

To keep this convo rollin’, lemme toss in a few tidbits about Chicken Express that might surprise ya. I’ve been diggin’ into their story, and there’s some neat stuff to share:

• Born in ‘88: Like I mentioned, they kicked off in 1988. That means they’ve been fryin’ up chicken for over three decades. Talk about stayin’ power!
• Family Roots: Started by Richard and Nancy Stuart, it’s got that family-run feel, even if it’s grown big. I bet they’re proud seein’ 240 stores bearin’ their name.
• Tea Obsession: Sellin’ iced tea by the gallon ain’t just a gimmick—it’s practically a lifestyle for their customers. I’ve seen folks roll up just for the tea, no chicken needed!
• Texas Loyalty: With 87% of their locations in Texas, they’re basically sayin’, “We’re Texas through and through.” Ain’t no other state got that kinda love from ‘em.

These lil’ nuggets (pun intended again!) just add to why Chicken Express feels so special. They’re not just another fast-food joint—they’ve got personality, y’know?

Could Chicken Express Grow Beyond 240 Locations?

Now, I ain’t got a crystal ball, but I can’t help but wonder if Chicken Express might add more spots down the line. They’ve already gone from one lil’ restaurant in Benbrook to 240 across four states. Who’s to say they won’t creep into more Southern states like Mississippi or Alabama? Or maybe they’ll double down even harder in Texas—208 ain’t the limit, right?

But here’s the thing—I kinda hope they don’t go too crazy with expansion. Part of what makes ‘em awesome is that they’re a regional treasure. If they pop up everywhere, they might lose that “hidden gem” vibe. For now, 240 feels like a sweet spot (see what I did there?). They’ve got enough locations to keep fans happy, especially in Texas, without stretchin’ themselves too thin.

If you’re in one of them 52 states or territories without a Chicken Express, don’t lose hope just yet. Maybe one day they’ll roll into your neck of the woods. ‘Til then, if you’re ever road-trippin’ through Texas or Oklahoma, make it a mission to stop by. Trust me, your taste buds will thank ya.

What’s It Like Eatin’ at Chicken Express?

Lemme get personal for a minute. I’ve been to a few Chicken Express spots, mostly in Texas, and every time, it’s like a lil’ slice of comfort. You walk in, smell that fried chicken waftin’ through the air, and you just know you’re in for a treat. The staff’s usually pretty chill, crackin’ jokes while they hand over your order. And don’t even get me started on them tenders—crispy on the outside, soft inside, and perfect with a side of gravy.

One time, I grabbed a family meal with some buddies, and we tore through it like we hadn’t eaten in days. The biscuits? Fluffy as heck. The okra? Crunchy and just greasy enough. And that gallon of tea kept us goin’ through the whole meal. If you ain’t been to one of their 240 locations yet, put it on your bucket list. It’s not just food—it’s a whole dang experience.

How to Find a Chicken Express Near You

If all this talk’s got your mouth waterin’, you’re probably itchin’ to find the nearest Chicken Express. Since they’re only in four states, your best bet is checkin’ if you’re in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, or that one lucky spot in Louisiana. If you’re in a big Texas city like Fort Worth or Arlington, you’ve got multiple spots to pick from—11 in Fort Worth alone, remember?

I’d say head to their official website and punch in your zip code or city to see what’s close by. Or just take a drive if you’re in the right state—chances are, especially in Texas, you’ll spot one sooner rather than later. With 240 locations, they ain’t exactly hidin’!

Why Chicken Express Matters in the Fast-Food World

In a world full of fast-food giants, Chicken Express stands out by keepin’ it real. They ain’t got thousands of stores, but their 240 spots pack a punch with quality and heart. They’re a reminder that you don’t gotta be everywhere to be somebody’s favorite. Down South, especially in Texas, they’re a go-to for folks who want somethin’ quick but still feels like home cookin’.

I love how they’ve carved out their niche. Fried chicken, catfish, and tea by the gallon—it’s a combo that screams Southern hospitality. And with most of their locations in Texas, they’re like a love letter to the state that raised ‘em. Whether you’re a local or just passin’ through, stoppin’ at one of their 240 restaurants is like gettin’ a taste of the South’s best.

Final Thoughts: Chicken Express Is a Southern Star

So, to wrap it all up, if you’ve been askin’ yourself, “How many Chicken Express locations are there?”—now ya know. There’s 240 of ‘em, mostly in Texas (208, to be exact), with a few sprinkled across Oklahoma, Arkansas, and one in Louisiana. They’ve been slingin’ fried chicken and sweet tea since 1988, and over the years, they’ve built a loyal followin’ without needin’ to go nationwide.

I’m a big fan of how they stick to their roots. Chicken Express ain’t just about food—it’s about community, comfort, and keepin’ things simple but delicious. If you’re near one of their spots, do yourself a favor and swing by. And if you ain’t, well, maybe plan a lil’ trip to Texas. Trust me, with 240 chances to try ‘em out, you won’t regret it. What’s your fave thing on their menu? Drop a comment if you’ve got a Chicken Express story to share—I’m all ears!