New Southern Chicken Favorite Opens Its First New Jersey Location, Sparking Buzz Across the State
After months of anticipation, a large Southern fried chicken company opened in New Jersey, increasing fast-food chicken competition. This week, the Atlanta-based company opened its first Garden State shop in Magnolia, attracting local foodies who wanted its famous dish without driving south.
The North White Horse Pike site is opening national restaurant franchises. Georgia, Florida, and Carolinas fans have enjoyed New Jersey’s opening since last year. New Jersey entry is part of a push into high-demand northern cities with over 950 Southeast sites.
Fried chicken fingers, sauced wings, seasoned crinkle-cut fries, and thick-cut Texas toast are its specialties. Menu includes chicken sandwiches, salads, boneless wings, fried sides, desserts, and milkshakes. On launch day, customers tested the brand’s hallmark products to see if they would survive in a new location.
Positive consumer feedback is promising. Chicken fingers from the chain were lauded for their crunchy coating, juicy texture, and balanced flavor. People who want fried chicken without dipping sauces liked the tenders. Buttery Texas toast and beautifully seasoned crinkle-cut fries were popular.
Popular wings had mixed reactions. The sauces were nice, although others desired crispier chicken. But many compared the lunch to New Jersey’s chicken giants.
Longtime customers love the chain’s spicy chicken sandwich with chicken fingers, hot sauce, ranch dressing, and Texas toast. NJ had the same fierceness, freshness, and flavor, said Southerners. Also popular were crispy-crust meltted cheddar snacks.
Milkshakes—rich, creamy, and not too sweet—ended the dinner. Some guests disliked the baked items, suggesting the institution could enhance its operations.
Magnolia serves limited Southern food. Launch lacked fried shrimp and out-of-state wraps. Early launches suit local supply chains and consumer demand with limited menus. The company has not announced a launch date.
Southern Chicken improves NJ fast food. Many national chicken brands have entered the state, competing for loyal customers with distinct flavors, spice levels, and menu styles. Newcomer is a significant competitor due to brand awareness, sauces, and chicken finger concentration.
New Jersey’s dense population, strong food culture, and proximity to major cities make it ideal for fast-casual and quick-service restaurants, say analysts. Magnolia may spread statewide if demand remains high.
For now, opening goes beyond restaurants. Consumption trends, national chain competition, and New Jersey’s appeal to global food companies expanding outside are shown. People expect the eatery to succeed.
Sources
Zaxby’s Corporate Announcements
New Jersey Business and Restaurant Industry Reports
Local Municipal Business Registration Records
