Franchising

Golden Chick opens 250th restaurant amid accelerated 2026 expansion

Photo: Golden Chick

February 18, 2026

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Golden Chick has opened its 250th restaurant. The unit, located in Little Elm, Texas, marks a significant milestone for the nearly 60-year-old brand, according to a press release.

In 2025, Golden Chick opened 23 new restaurants, setting a new all-time brand record for annual openings. The total surpassed the previous record of 20 openings set in 2023 and marked an increase from 14 openings in 2024. A sizeable number of restaurants are already projected to open in 2026, positioning the brand to build on its recent development performance.

"With the opening of our 250th restaurant, we are celebrating more than a number; we are honoring the journey that began as a small Texas chicken concept nearly six decades ago," Mark Parmerlee, CEO of Golden Chick, said in the press release. "What started as a single neighborhood restaurant has evolved into a multi-state brand by staying focused on quality, consistency and taking care of our franchise partners. This milestone reflects steady, disciplined growth and a foundation built to last."

The Little Elm unit is under the helm of first-time Golden Chick franchisee Mannu Mehta, who plans to open a second Little Elm location in mid-2026.