Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken plans to open six new locations in South Carolina with franchisee Harris Mullis.
Mullis spent the past 15 years strengthening his Rock Hill, S.C., by investing in renovations and modernizing the restaurant while honoring its local roots. Harris was the chain’s Operator of the Year award recipient in 2022.
Lee’s is celebrating the brand’s 60th anniversary in 2026 with a renewed focus on development. The chain announced a new prototype last year, hired a new director of store design and construction in 2025 and a new head of growth and development in February.
Brand Snapshot: Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken
- Founded: 1966
- Headquarters: Lima, Ohio
- Category: Quick-service restaurant
- Specialty: Fresh, never-frozen fried chicken and homestyle sides
- Footprint: 130-plus locations across 12 U.S. states and Canada
- Ownership Model: Predominantly franchise-operated
- Prototype History: Recent refresh focused on modernization with a nod to the chain’s legacy
