TikTok-Famous Hot Chicken Chain Expanding Into South Jersey

SOUTH JERSEY — The Nashville chicken craze is heating up in South Jersey, with an internet-famous sensation entering the region.

The Red Chickz, an emerging restaurant chain, announced plans Tuesday to open three South Jersey eateries — in Gloucester Township, Washington Township and Mantua.

The Red Chickz originated in Los Angeles after one of their founders traveled to Nashville. The restaurants bring a West Coast twist to Nashville Hot Chicken, which they serve at six different spice levels.

In its early-going, The Red Chickz made waves on TikTok, where it has 1.1 million followers.

The Red Chickz has three locations in California and one in Texas, with 24 more restaurants in development.

"Expanding into the Garden State is an incredibly exciting milestone for us, as we continue to share our unique West Coast spin on Nashville Hot Chicken with new fans across the country," CEO Shawn Lalehzarian said in a news release. "New Jersey's diverse and dynamic communities make it the perfect place for us to introduce the East Coast to The Red Chickz experience."

The Red Chickz signed a three-unit development deal to bring the restaurant to South Jersey. Their precise locations haven't been determined, as the site-selection process is still underway, a spokesperson told Patch.

It's also unknown when the South Jersey restaurants might open.

Along with the Nashville hot chicken sandwich and tenders, the menu also features some unconventional items, such as the French toast sandwich. Available sides include cheese curds and corn ribs, in addition to classic options.

The Red Chickz ships nationwide through Goldbelly.

Meanwhile, Nashville hot chicken has been spreading throughout South Jersey. Asad's Hot Chicken, a fast-spreading chain out of Philadelphia, recently opened its second location across the Delaware, in Sicklerville. Dave's Hot Chicken, another California chain, reached South Jersey's market with a Cherry Hill restaurant that opened in April.