San Antonio, November 26, 2025
Layne’s Chicken Fingers, a Texas-based restaurant chain, has announced plans to expand by opening 44 new units statewide, including locations in San Antonio. This expansion aims to solidify its presence in about 90% of Texas’ major markets, with construction set to begin on new locations in the coming years. The brand has been recognized for its rapid growth, and Layne’s plans to continue venturing into new markets beyond Texas as franchising opportunities become available.
San Antonio, Texas – Layne’s Chicken Fingers Expands Statewide
Layne’s Chicken Fingers, a Texas-based restaurant chain, has announced a significant expansion plan, adding 44 new units across the state, including locations in San Antonio. This expansion aims to establish the brand in approximately 90% of Texas’ major markets, excluding some smaller territories and El Paso.
Expansion Details
The expansion includes new restaurants in West Texas, San Antonio, and the Coastal Bend. Construction is scheduled to begin in December 2025 for the Seguin location, with completion expected by May 2026. Additionally, a $2 million restaurant is planned for Palestine, with construction slated to start on October 2, 2025, and completion by February 2, 2026.
Growth and Recognition
Founded in 1994 in College Station, Layne’s Chicken Fingers has experienced rapid growth, with a 50% increase in units in the first half of 2025, surpassing the 30-restaurant mark. The brand was ranked No. 6 in Restaurant Business’ Future 50 list of the fastest-growing small chains in the U.S. in 2025.
Franchising and Future Plans
Layne’s began franchising in 2021 and has expanded beyond Texas into Wisconsin, Arkansas, and Ohio. By the end of 2026, the company expects to surpass the 80-unit mark. The brand’s home state of Texas is mostly sold out for franchising, prompting the push into new markets.
Competitive Landscape
Layne’s Chicken Fingers competes with other chicken-focused chains like Raising Cane’s, which has also been expanding rapidly. In 2024, Raising Cane’s opened 118 new locations and aims to operate over 1,600 restaurants by 2030. Despite this competition, Layne’s continues to grow and establish its presence in the Texas market.
About Layne’s Chicken Fingers
Founded in 1994 by Mike Layne in College Station, Texas, Layne’s Chicken Fingers is known for its signature chicken tenders, crinkle-cut fries, and special sauce. The brand has expanded its footprint across Texas and into other states, focusing on providing quality chicken finger meals to its customers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Layne’s Chicken Fingers?
Layne’s Chicken Fingers is a Texas-based restaurant chain founded in 1994, known for its signature chicken tenders, crinkle-cut fries, and special sauce.
Where is Layne’s expanding?
Layne’s is expanding across Texas, including San Antonio, West Texas, and the Coastal Bend, with plans to establish the brand in approximately 90% of Texas’ major markets.
How many new locations is Layne’s adding?
Layne’s has announced a significant expansion plan, adding 44 new units across the state, including locations in San Antonio.
When is the Seguin location opening?
Construction for the Seguin location is scheduled to begin in December 2025, with completion expected by May 2026.
What is Layne’s growth trajectory?
Layne’s experienced a 50% increase in units in the first half of 2025, surpassing the 30-restaurant mark, and was ranked No. 6 in Restaurant Business’ Future 50 list of the fastest-growing small chains in the U.S. in 2025.
Key Features of Layne’s Chicken Fingers Expansion
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Expansion Plan | 44 new units across Texas, including San Antonio, West Texas, and the Coastal Bend. |
| Construction Start Date for Seguin Location | December 2025 |
| Completion Date for Seguin Location | May 2026 |
| Rank in Restaurant Business’ Future 50 List | No. 6 in 2025 |
| Franchising Expansion | Beyond Texas into Wisconsin, Arkansas, and Ohio; expects to surpass 80 units by end of 2026. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
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