Zaxby’s, a Georgia-based restaurant company, is expanding to Arizona with franchises possible for Queen Creek, Chandler, Gilbert and Mesa.

“This is such an exciting time for us,” Bert Lane, Zaxby’s vice president of development, said in a release.

 “Not only are we seeing growth in our tried-and-true Mid-Atlantic states and Southeast, but we’re thrilled to expand our footprint in the western part of the United States.”

Zaxby’s, known for its chicken, has sold 51 new franchise locations this year, according to the release.

Six East Valley restaurants are expected to be serving food in the next five years, according to Brian and Jessica  Nelson who will be opening them in the new Phoenix territory.

Plans call for the first store to open in the fall of 2024, with the second in the spring of 2025, and four more locations by 2027, according to a release. 

The Nelsons have extensive histories in the restaurant industry, the release stated.

"We are looking for our next venture to pour our heart, soul, knowledge and resources into,” Jessica Nelson said.