Houston TX Hot Chicken (HHC), a US fast food chain specializing in Texas-style hot chicken, has announced plans to open three restaurants in the UK in 2026, with a total of 50 sites expected across the country within three years. This marks the brand's first international expansion.
Partnership with PizzaExpress
The expansion is facilitated through a partnership with PizzaExpress, which has acquired the master franchisee rights for HHC across Europe. PizzaExpress, a well-known UK restaurant group, will oversee the rollout, leveraging its market expertise. The move continues PizzaExpress's portfolio growth, following the launch of its delivery-focused Mac & Wings brand earlier this year.
Menu and Signature Items
HHC currently operates 29 locations across nine US states, offering hot chicken sandwiches, nuggets, and tenders. The chain is particularly famous for its extreme spice level option, "Houston, We Have A Problem," which requires customers to sign a waiver before ordering due to its intense heat. The UK menu is expected to feature similar offerings.
Fried Chicken Market Boom
The UK fried chicken market has seen significant growth, with several brands expanding their presence. In September 2023, Domino's trialled its Chick 'N' Dip offer across 187 stores in England and Northern Ireland. PizzaExpress's Mac & Wings launched in February 2024, further intensifying competition.
Executive Comments
Paula MacKenzie, chief executive of PizzaExpress, said: "We’re thrilled to be adding Houston Hot Chicken to our house of brands, bringing something truly distinctive to the UK market: bold flavour, real energy and an experience that stands apart. This is chicken unlike you've seen it before."
Brian Simowitz, president of HHC, added: "Working with the PizzaExpress team to expand for the first time internationally is truly an exciting moment for us. No one knows fried chicken better than HHC, and no one knows the UK market better than PizzaExpress, making this the perfect partnership. We can’t wait to fly the coop and land in the UK, bringing something unexpected and exciting to chicken consumers."
Timeline and Future Plans
The first three UK restaurants are scheduled to open in 2026, with dozens more following in subsequent years. The partnership aims to establish a strong presence across the UK, capitalizing on the growing demand for fried chicken and unique dining experiences.
