Currently, there’s only one location of the star-powered Big Chicken fast food chain in Louisiana, but that’s about to change in a massive way. The company, which the legendary Shaquille O’Neal partly owns, recently announced it would be entering several Louisiana markets, starting with a new Big Chicken location in Lake Charles.
According to a press release from the company, franchisees Gul Awan and Vick Awan will be leading up the effort to bring the fried chicken chain to additional Louisiana markets. The company’s only current location is in North Baton Rouge. The press release said ideal Big Chicken franchisees have significant capital backing and are willing to operate multiple units. For their part, the Awans bring more than three decades of business experience to the venture.
Big Chicken was founded in 2018 by the Las Vegas-based JRS Hospitality, the multinational Authentic Brands Group and Louisiana basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal. The menu at the fast-food restaurant combines O’Neill’s childhood favorites and contemporary flavor profiles. Popular items include mac-and-cheese crusted with Cheez-Its, and crispy fried chicken sandwiches.
