Big Chicken, the renowned dining concept backed by NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal, has officially opened its doors at Jackson State University (JSU), marking an exciting addition to the school’s culinary scene. This partnership with SodexoMAGIC, effective from September 22, 2026, will provide students with a menu that celebrates delicious comfort food, inspired by O'Neal's own childhood favorites.
JSU, known for its vibrant community of over 6,000 students and rich traditions, is the ideal setting for Big Chicken's larger-than-life offerings. As a nationally recognized R2 research institution and an NCAA Division I athletics program, it holds a robust reputation that aligns perfectly with the energetic brand identity of Big Chicken.
At Big Chicken Jackson State, the menu features a tempting lineup designed to cater to campus life from the early morning until late at night. Students can savor items such as:
- - BIG Breakfast: Options include Chicken and Biscuit, and a selection of Sausage, Egg & Cheese Biscuit and Bacon, Egg & Cheese Biscuit, all served with hash browns.
- - Signature Sandwiches: Favorites like The Original, Uncle Jerome's Nashville Hot, The Pit Boss, The Ultimate, and the Shaq Attack.
- - Chicken Favorites: The menu also includes Shaq Snacks, including The Smokehouse and The Hot Shot along with crispy tenders and tender plates.
- - Bold Sides: Accompany any meal with crinkle-cut fries, onion rings, cheese curds, creamy coleslaw, mac and cheese, and salads.
- - Hand-Spun Shakes: Finish with a dessert from flavors like chocolate, vanilla, cookies and cream, or strawberry.
Murat Bora, Regional Vice President of SodexoMAGIC, expressed excitement over the opening, stating, "This milestone reflects our commitment to enhancing the campus dining experience by integrating a recognized brand that promises exceptional taste and quality. We aim to provide innovative dining choices for our students and are thrilled to welcome them to Big Chicken."
Jackson State's President, Dr. Denise Jones Gregory, emphasized the significance of this partnership, saying, "This collaboration marks a milestone for our dining program and aligns with our vision of offering diverse and modern dining experiences for our community. We believe that Big Chicken will elevate our campus life significantly."
Gregg Majewski, CEO of Craveworthy, the company behind Big Chicken, recognized the school spirit at JSU as something that the brand is excited to embrace. "The energy and pride at Jackson State resonate with what we offer. We hope Big Chicken will become a beloved part of daily student life, from breakfast before classes to snacks during game day festivities."
This opening is part of Craveworthy’s strategy to establish a presence in college settings and unique venues. Big Chicken has expanded its footprint with over 40 locations currently, and many more in development across North America, including its recent launch at the Georgia Institute of Technology.
Big Chicken’s new location at Jackson State University will operate from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET in the Legacy Food Court, located at 1400 John R. Lynch St. Students and visitors can connect with Big Chicken online via their website and social media platforms to stay updated on menu highlights and future offerings. To learn more about JSU, visit their official site, and for more on SodexoMAGIC, check their resources as well.