Slim Chickens, the fast‑growing US‑born chicken brand known for its fresh, cooked to order tenders, wings and house made sauces, is set to open a brand new restaurant in Chelmsford on 25th June 2026. The new site will open on Chelmsford High Street, taking over the Wendy’s unit.
The Chelmsford restaurant will be the latest Slim Chickens site operated by JRK Restaurants, joining existing locations in Basildon and further strengthening the brand’s presence across Essex.
General Manager James Branagh will lead the team, bringing Slim Chickens’ signature Southern hospitality and “better chicken” ethos to the heart of Chelmsford. The restaurant will offer dine in, takeaway and delivery, serving a full menu of freshly prepared chicken, hand breaded tenders, crispy wings, Texas Toast, signature sides and its famous range of house made dipping sauces.
Guests can also download the Slim Chickens app to unlock free food, exclusive offers and rewards from their very first visit.
Founded in Fayetteville, Arkansas, Slim Chickens has grown rapidly across the UK thanks to its commitment to quality, speed and Southern style comfort food. Every tender is marinated in buttermilk, hand breaded and cooked fresh to order, ensuring the brand’s hallmark texture and flavour in every bite.
James Branagh, General Manager of Slim Chickens Chelmsford, said:
“We are excited to be bringing Slim Chickens to Chelmsford and welcoming the existing Wendy’s team into the Slims family, as well as creating further additional new roles. The response to our Slim Chickens restaurant in Basildon which opened in March has been fantastic and we cannot wait for Chelmsford to experience our fresh, cooked to order chicken, signature sauces and warm Southern hospitality.”
The new Slim Chickens Chelmsford restaurant will open on Chelmsford High Street on 25th June 2026: 9–10 High St, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1BE
