Chuck's Hot Chicken Franchise FDD, Costs & Fees (2026)
Chuck's Hot Chicken is a quick-service restaurant franchise specializing in Nashville-style hot chicken. It offers a menu centered around spicy fried chicken, catering to customers seeking bold flavors.
KEY FRANCHISE STATS
Franchisees
?
2
+
n.a.
n.a.
Franchise fee
?
$30,000
Investment
?
$478,000 - $834,000
Revenue (AUV)
?
Undisclosed
$1,073,000
+
n.a.
n.a.
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Chuck's Hot Chicken is a rapidly growing fast-casual restaurant franchise specializing in Nashville-style hot chicken. Founded in 2022, the brand has quickly gained popularity for its bold chicken dishes, offering a range of heat levels to suit all tastes.
The company is headquartered in Maryland Heights, Missouri, and began franchising in 2021. Since then, it has expanded with multiple locations across Missouri and Kansas.
Chuck's Hot Chicken serves a flavorful menu featuring hand-breaded chicken sandwiches, strips, and wings. Each item is cooked fresh and paired with signature sauces and classic sides.
Customers can choose from different spice levels, ranging from mild to extremely hot. This customization enhances the experience and attracts a broad customer base.
The brand sets itself apart by focusing on authentic flavor, high-quality ingredients, and friendly service. Chuck’s uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients to ensure consistent quality. The vibrant, welcoming atmosphere at each location adds to its appeal.
Initial investment
The initial investment required for a Chuck's Hot Chicken franchise is
$478,000 - $834,000.
That is the total cost you would need to finance if you were to start this franchise.
These costs are provided by the franchisor in the Franchise Disclosure Document.
Type of Expenditure
Amount
Initial Franchise Fee
$30,000
Your Training Expenses
$3,000 - $10,000
Premises Deposits
$3,500 - $6,500
Professional Design
$12,000 - $16,000
Leasehold Improvements
$200,000 - $400,000
Signage
$40,000 - $50,000
Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment
$150,000 - $200,000
Computer Systems
$1,500 - $3,000
Initial Inventory
$10,000 - $15,000
Grand Opening Marketing
$5,000 - $10,000
Professional Fees
$2,500 - $5,000
Licenses and Permits
$2,500 - $5,000
Insurance
$3,200 - $8,000
Additional Funds – 3 months
$15,000 - $75,000
TOTAL
$478,200 - $833,500
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Type of Expenditure
Amount
Initial Franchise Fee
$30,000
Your Training Expenses
$3,000 - $10,000
Premises Deposits
$3,500 - $6,500
Professional Design
$12,000 - $16,000
Leasehold Improvements
$200,000 - $400,000
Signage
$40,000 - $50,000
Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment
$150,000 - $200,000
Computer Systems
$1,500 - $3,000
Initial Inventory
$10,000 - $15,000
Grand Opening Marketing
$5,000 - $10,000
Professional Fees
$2,500 - $5,000
Licenses and Permits
$2,500 - $5,000
Insurance
$3,200 - $8,000
Additional Funds – 3 months
$15,000 - $75,000
TOTAL
$478,200 - $833,500
Franchise Disclosure Document
Below is Chuck's Hot Chicken's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document. Upgrade to Pro or purchase the FDD to view and download the document.
Number of units
Chuck's Hot Chicken had 4 total units in 2024, of which 2 were franchised-owned and 2 company-owned.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the royalty fee?
The royalty fee for a Chuck's Hot Chicken franchise is 5.00%. In addition, you would have to pay the advertising (or national brand fund) fee of 4.00%.
What is the total investment?
The initial investment required for a Chuck's Hot Chicken franchise is $478,000 - $834,000. That is the total cost you would need to finance if you were to start this franchise. These costs are provided by the franchisor in the Franchise Disclosure Document.
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee for a Chuck's Hot Chicken franchise is $30,000. This is typically paid upfront as part of the total initial investment, after signature of the Franchise Agreeement.
Chuck's Hot Chicken offers a comprehensive training program to prepare franchisees and their teams for successful operation. The key training components are:
Initial Training Program Franchisees and their general manager must complete the Initial Training Program to the Franchisor’s satisfaction before opening. This training takes place at the corporate headquarters or a designated outlet and is free for up to two participants, although travel and personal expenses are the franchisee’s responsibility. If the training is not completed satisfactorily, the Franchisor may terminate the agreement.
Onsite Opening Assistance A trained representative provides on-site support at the franchise location for up to one week before opening. This assistance covers training, supervision, and operational guidance to ensure a smooth launch. The franchisee must cover travel and lodging costs for the trainer.
Additional and Refresher Training The Franchisor may mandate or offer optional training sessions, including annual conventions or national meetings. These can last up to ten days per year, and franchisees must cover any tuition and associated travel costs. Attendance at required sessions is mandatory, and failure to comply may be considered a material default.
Territory Protection
Chuck’s Hot Chicken provides franchisees with a defined but limited protected territory. This territory is specified in the franchise agreement and is often based on geographic factors like zip codes or local demographics.
Within this area, the Franchisor agrees not to establish another dedicated Chuck’s Hot Chicken outlet, provided the franchisee is in good standing. However, the territory is not exclusive. Franchisees may still face competition from other outlets owned or licensed by the Franchisor outside the designated area.
Additionally, Chuck’s Hot Chicken reserves the right to sell its products through alternative distribution channels, including internet sales, grocery stores, kiosks, and other non-traditional venues, even within a franchisee’s territory.