BREAKING: Layne’s Chicken has just announced an ambitious expansion plan, set to open 44 new restaurants across West Texas beginning in 2026. This major development comes just months after the franchise identified five Texas cities for growth, promising to elevate the dining scene in the region.
The deal, forged between the Lubbock-based C5 Restaurants and the Texas-born Layne’s Chicken franchise, marks a significant milestone for both companies. C5, known for its recent addition of the burger chain Small Sliders to its Lubbock menu, currently operates six Fazoli’s locations throughout West Texas. CEO Eli Cohen expressed enthusiasm, stating, “The food’s fantastic, and they’re building an incredible business.”
Layne’s Chicken, which began in College Station in 1994, specializes in chicken tenders paired with unique in-house sauces and shakes. CEO Garrett Reed emphasized the brand’s commitment to quality, claiming, “The food is better than the rest of the chicken industry.”
The expansion includes cities such as Lubbock, San Antonio, Midland, Odessa, Corpus Christi, Del Rio, Eagle Pass, San Angelo, and Uvalde. Notably, the first two locations in San Antonio and at least two in Lubbock are already confirmed. The initial restaurant at 7902 University Ave. (formerly a KFC) is expected to open in March 2026, with a second location at 2227 19th St. opening later that year.
Reed stated, “We always wanted to get out there, and we’re excited to come to Lubbock. We’re bringing variety to the premium chicken tender market.” This latest venture is part of a broader strategy, with Layne’s planning to open 50 to 55 locations in 2026 alone, following the opening of 20 locations in 2025.
C5’s CFO Mark Crayne praised Layne’s superior product, noting, “A lot of times when you get chicken tenders, if you don’t have the sauce that they always promote, if you just have the chicken, it can be bland. I think Layne’s has the superior breading.”
The excitement surrounding this expansion is palpable, with Cohen predicting, “We’re planning to have a lot of fun over the next few years.” As the franchise gears up for a significant presence in the Texas market, they aim to redefine the chicken tender experience.
For ongoing updates on locations and openings, fans can visit layneschickenfingers.com.
Stay tuned for more developments as this expansion unfolds, and prepare for Layne’s Chicken to make a delicious impact across West Texas!
