Popular Fast-Casual Chicken Chain Announces Big Illinois Expansion

When I read something that says "Chicago area," the wheels start turning in my head about how far away it will be from me. If you're reading this and live in Rockford or the surrounding area, you'll probably wonder the same thing.

Famous Chicken Chain Announces Illinois Expansion

That's because a famous fast-casual restaurant out of Atlanta, Georgia, has announced plans to expand into Illinois. QSR Magazine says they have signed a "multi-unit development agreement with a seasoned local entrepreneur to open several new restaurants across Chicago, with the first location expected to open within the next year."

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Zaxbys in Chicago? We’ve Heard This Before

If your mouth is watering at the thought of a brand new chicken chain coming to town, you're not alone, as Zaxbys has been talked about setting up shop in Chicago for over a decade, according to what is described as "the new Chicagoland operator" in the QSR article.

Could Zaxbys Ever Make It to Rockford?

Zaxbys isn't just coming to Chicago; there are also plans for restaurants in Dayton, Columbus, and Indiana in the future. What does that mean for Rockford? Honestly, I think it could happen. I mean, I thought we'd be getting a Shake Shack too, and that hasn't happened quite yet either, so who knows. Until then, we'll have to head into the Windy City for their signature Chicken Fingerz and more.

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The buzz around Zaxbys heading to Illinois is proof that this chicken chain might need to be added to the list of most popular chain restaurants in America.