Golden Chick

Started in San Marcos in the late 1960s as Golden Fried Chicken, the concept was launched by a former franchise employee aiming to run a chicken chain better. Early growth was anchored by the kitchen’s secret marination and batter mixes, taking the operation from an initial Texas footprint to 39 spots by the early 1980s. Following an ownership change and a 1990s redesign, the brand adopted the Golden Chick name and expanded across the region to more than 150 locations, broadening its offerings with salads alongside traditional fried fare.