Church’s Texas Chicken and Texas Chicken are headed to China via a development deal with Deke Shengtang that promises to bring 600 or more restaurants to the country in the coming years.
The deal is the brand's largest international development agreement to date. Church’s expects the first location to open in Shanghai this summer.
"This is more than growth. It's a defining moment for our brand," says Roland Gonzalez, CEO of Church's Texas Chicken and Texas Chicken.
The expansion into China builds on Church's continued international momentum, following growth across Europe and other global markets in 2025.
“As we expand around the world, we're intentional about how we do it,” says Tim Wadell, executive vice president, international business at Church's Texas Chicken and Texas Chicken. “The team at Deke Shengtang brings the local expertise and ambition we look for in a partner. China presents a significant opportunity, and together, we're building something designed to last, rooted in local relevance while staying true to who we are.”
Brand Snapshot: Church’s Texas Chicken / Texas Chicken
- Founded: 1952
- Headquarters: San Antonio
- Category: Quick-service restaurant (QSR)
- Specialty: Hand-battered, double-breaded fried chicken (original and spicy), tenders, sandwiches, and biscuits.
- Footprint: 1,400+ locations across 22 countries
- Ownership model: Franchise-heavy system with master franchise partners internationally; owned by High Bluff Capital Partners and FS Investments
- Prototype history: Debuted a 1,000-square-foot compact prototype in 2023 and a new prototype called “Blaze” in 2024; has remodeled hundreds of restaurants in the last several years.
