Chick N Max is planning to open its first Houston-area location in the Willis Shopping Center anchored by H-E-B at 12312 I-45, Willis, in the first quarter of 2023, as of a Sept. 30 announcement from the fast-casual franchise. Chick N Max has three restaurants in Wichita, Kansas, and plans to add 25 restaurants in the Greater Houston area through a development agreement with Aaron Johnson. The first three restaurants in the Houston area are anticipated to open within 18-24 months.

The fast-casual eatery will offer its signature signature almond wood-smoked chicken wings, leg quarters, breast quarters and half chickens as well as fried chicken tenders and 10 flavors of sandwiches, such as the Maple Bacon sandwich and the Sweet and Spicy sandwich. Sides include fries, onion rings, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes and smoked white beans as well as 11 sauce options.

“Chick N Max’s made-from-scratch menu has something for everyone, with options for those looking to indulge to guests looking for a healthier take on traditional fast-casual chicken offerings,” Johnson said in the release.

The eatery was founded by Max Sheets in 2017 and is planning to expand across the central and southeastern U.S., according to the release. www.chicknmax.com