An exciting new dining option is on the horizon for State College chicken fanatics. Big Chicken, the fast-casual poultry concept spearheaded by none other than Shaquille O’Neal himself, is opening a new storefront in the region, reports local media outlet Penn Live.
A newer entry into the chicken market, the concept will be crossing the road into the ground floor of the ōLiv Hetzel high-rise building located at 480 East College Avenue. The restaurant will be arriving in time to greet local incoming student; Kandy Weaver, a real estate agent involved in brokering the lease, states that Big Chicken should be open in conjunction with Penn State’s 2025 fall semester.
The State College eatery will be helmed by franchisees Harsimrat, Shubreet, Samarjit and Pukhraj Sidhu. Harsimrat Sidhu explains that the quality of the company’s product, as well as the community it engenders, appealed to the group, stating: “We fell in love with the Big Chicken flavor profile and the variety of menu items they offer. Big Chicken really felt like a family to us, and with our global perspective we are looking forward to learning and growing with them.”
Big Chicken made its auspicious entrance into the fast-casual dining scene in 2018. The concept strives to marry the classic flavors from Shaq’s childhood with contemporary chicken trends. The website details what State College diners can look forward to, stating: “From crispy chicken sandwiches and tenders to Cheez-It® crusted mac n’ cheese and hand-crafted ice cream shakes, each menu item tells a story all while offering guests an inside look into the life and personality of Shaquille O’Neal.”
