Case Study

Case Study: Slim Chickens

A Fast-Casual Phenomenon Built on Quality, Flavor, and Rapid Growth

About the Slim Chickens’ Brand

Slim Chickens is a standout in the fast-casual dining space, offering a craveable menu centered on Southern-inspired comfort food. Known for their fresh, never-frozen chicken that’s hand-breaded and cooked to order, the brand delivers a high-quality dining experience across every item—from crispy tenders and sauced wings to salads, wraps, chicken & waffles, and hearty sandwiches.

Humble Beginnings to National Expansion

Founded nearly 20 years ago in Northwest Arkansas by Tom Gordon and Greg Smart, Slim Chickens has transformed from a local concept into a rapidly expanding franchise. In just five years, the brand grew from around 69 locations (2018) to over 240 today. This remarkable growth has positioned Slim Chickens as a serious contender in the “better chicken” category, joining the ranks of industry leaders like Raising Cane’s, Zaxby’s, and Chick-fil-A.

What Drives Slim Chickens’ Success?

At the heart of Slim Chickens’ popularity is a dedication to freshness and flavor. Every order is made from scratch using high-quality ingredients. Customers regularly comment on the taste and texture of the chicken—even after it cools—highlighting a level of quality that’s hard to match. Their wide selection of house-made sauces further enhances the experience, offering something for every flavor profile.

A Sweet Finish

Slim Chickens doesn’t stop at savory. Their dessert menu adds a memorable finish to any meal, with standouts like the strawberry cheesecake served in a mason jar. It’s a simple but elevated touch that reinforces the brand’s attention to detail in both presentation and taste.

A Culture of Hospitality

Service is a cornerstone of the Slim Chickens experience. Team members are trained to prioritize hospitality, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere from the moment guests arrive. That culture of care is consistently noticed by customers and contributes to the brand’s positive reputation.

Why It Matters to TPSO

Slim Chickens’ rapid growth and commitment to quality mirror the standards TPSO upholds in every project. As a trusted partner in facility services, we’re proud to contribute to environments where top-tier food and top-tier guest experiences go hand-in-hand. Our support helps maintain the clean, professional spaces that keep Slim Chickens operating at their best—from front-of-house appearance to back-of-house functionality.