Chicken Salad Chick Climbs to Third Place in Fast Casual's 2026 Movers and Shakers

Chicken Salad Chick Ranks Third in Fast Casual's 2026 Movers & Shakers

Chicken Salad Chick, the only fast-casual chicken salad restaurant in the nation, has achieved an incredible milestone by securing the third position on Fast Casual's prestigious 2026 Top 100 Movers & Shakers list. This accolade, announced on May 22, 2026, marks the brand's 11th appearance on this influential list and highlights its consistent performance as a leader in the industry.

The Top 100 Movers & Shakers list is an annual recognition that celebrates brands making substantial impacts through various dimensions, including menu innovation, franchise development, and technological advancements. Chicken Salad Chick's latest recognition is accentuated by its strategic growth initiatives, which has seen the opening of its 300th restaurant in Melbourne, Florida. Additionally, the brand has signed development deals to further expand into new territories, including states like Nevada and Utah, and recently launched its presence in Kansas, bringing its total footprint to 22 states.

As part of its commitment to menu innovation, Chicken Salad Chick recently introduced two exciting items: the seasonal Maui Mama LTO, featuring a delightful combination of pineapple, bacon, and jalapeño, and the indulgent Red Velvet Cake. These additions reflect the brand's dedication to providing tasty, fresh options for its customers.

But it isn’t just about growth and new menu items; community initiatives play a crucial role in Chicken Salad Chick's values. The company has been proactive in its efforts to give back, notably through events like the Cookies for a CURE campaign that raises funds for childhood cancer research and the Giving Card initiative that runs from November through December, reinforcing its dedication to serving the communities it operates in.

Scott Deviney, President and CEO of Chicken Salad Chick, expressed pride at the brand's accomplishments. “Ranking among the top three brands for the sixth consecutive year is truly an honor,” he stated. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work of our team and franchise partners. It shows our commitment to bringing Chicken Salad Chick's fresh, scratch-made food and our signature Southern hospitality to our customers.”

The recognition was awarded during the Movers & Shakers Award Gala held in Chicago amid the National Restaurant Association Show on May 17. Here, industry leaders are spotlighted for their innovative approaches and effective contributions to the fast-casual sector.

Following this recognition, Chicken Salad Chick shows no signs of slowing down. The brand operates over 335 locations across 22 states and has aggressive plans to enter new markets in Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Utah, and West Virginia in the upcoming year. The company attributes its success to a careful approach to expansion, focusing on selecting the right franchise owners and strategic site placements that promise long-term growth.

In conclusion, Chicken Salad Chick's impressive ranking on Fast Casual’s Movers & Shakers list not only underscores the brand's growth and innovation but also highlights its commitment to quality, community, and customer service. The future looks bright for this beloved chicken salad restaurant as it continues to expand and thrive in the competitive food service industry.

For more details on Chicken Salad Chick and its offerings, visit Chicken Salad Chick's official site. Also, follow them on social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn to catch their latest updates and innovations.