Cowboy Chicken Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Cowboy Chicken is a fast-casual dining franchise known for its all-natural rotisserie chicken, cooked slowly over real wood. The concept was introduced in 1981 in Dallas, Texas, by founders Phil and Jeanette Sanders, who opened their first wood-fired chicken restaurant to share their passion for authentic, smoky flavors.
From its beginnings as a single eatery, the brand has expanded into a growing franchise network headquartered in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. Cowboy Chicken started offering franchise opportunities in 2007, and by 2010, its first franchised restaurant was up and running under Cowboy Chicken Franchising, LP.
The restaurant’s menu centers on wood-roasted chicken seasoned with a proprietary dry rub, complemented by scratch-made sides such as the famous Twice-Baked Potaters, chicken enchiladas, and classic homestyle desserts.
Cowboy Chicken stands out in the competitive rotisserie and chicken restaurant industry thanks to its authentic wood-fire cooking method. Unlike many brands that rely on gas ovens, Cowboy Chicken stays true to its roots—using real wood to achieve a distinct smoky flavor and perfectly crispy skin that define its signature taste.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Cowboy Chicken franchise? It costs on average between $582,000 – $1,422,000 to start a Cowboy Chicken franchised restaurant.
This includes expenses for construction, kitchen equipment, initial inventory, and startup operating costs. The total investment for a Cowboy Chicken franchise can vary based on several factors, such as the restaurant’s size and format, its geographic location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or buy the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Lease Security Deposits | $0 to $13,000 |
| Grand Opening Promotions Advertising | $25,000 to $50,000 |
| Architectural/Engineering | $7,000 to $16,700 |
| Construction Plan Review | $0 to $3,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $210,000 to $680,000 |
| Signs | $8,000 to $31,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment, Freight and Installation | $192,296 to $425,000 |
| Point-of-Sale Equipment, Phone and Sound System (plus installation) | $25,000 to $43,000 |
| Opening Inventory and Smallwares | $21,800 to $29,295 |
| Utility Deposits | $3,200 to $5,000 |
| Training Expenses | $8,000 to $20,000 |
| Insurance Premiums | $3,500 to $5,000 |
| Professional Fees | $3,000 to $6,000 |
| Additional Funds | $40,000 to $60,000 |
| Total for a Single Franchise | $581,796 to $1,421,990 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Cowboy Chicken franchise? A Cowboy Chicken franchised restaurant makes on average $1,678,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Cowboy Chicken locations are there?
As of the most recent data, Cowboy Chicken operates approximately 18 restaurants across the United States.
What is the total investment required to open a Cowboy Chicken franchise?
The total investment required to open a Cowboy Chicken franchise ranges from $582,000 to $1,422,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Cowboy Chicken franchise?
Cowboy Chicken franchisees are required to pay ongoing fees that include a royalty fee of 5% of gross sales and a marketing or advertising fee of about 2% of gross sales. These recurring payments support the brand’s overall operations, including continued use of the Cowboy Chicken system, national marketing efforts, and brand development initiatives.
Who owns Cowboy Chicken?
The Cowboy Chicken franchise is owned by Cowboy Chicken Franchising, LP, a company based in the Dallas–Fort Worth area.
Disclaimer
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