AN American-style fried chicken chain has revealed it is opening its newest restaurant in Basildon within weeks.

Slim Chickens, the beloved "fast-casual" brand known for its signature Southern comfort food, is bringing its mouth-watering flavours to Basildon as it opens its 59th UK location in just six weeks at Festival Leisure Park. 

Creating 40 new jobs in the area, the new restaurant seats more than 80 guests and promises to offer a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, complete with a carefully curated playlist and live sports streaming all day. 

Menu - Southern-style chicken at Slim ChickensMenu - Southern-style chicken at Slim Chickens (Image: Slim Chickens)

Founded in Arkansas, the restaurant chain has quickly gained a loyal following in the UK for its Southern-inspired dishes from buttermilk-marinated chicken tenders to crispy wings with a choice of fourteen signature dipping sauces. 

Offering - dishes range from buttermilk chicken to crispy wings with a huge choice of dipping sauceesOffering - dishes range from buttermilk chicken to crispy wings with a huge choice of dipping sauces (Image: Slim Chickens)

Ben Blore, head of operations at Slim Chickens, shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming launch: “We’re thrilled to bring Slim Chickens to Basildon in just six weeks. Our team has been dedicated to making sure every guest experiences our fresh, cooked-to-order chicken and authentic Southern hospitality at its finest.”

Taking shape - Work underway at Slim ChickensTaking shape - Work underway at Slim Chickens (Image: George Pizani)

To mark the occasion, the restaurant will be handing out 5,000 "golden tickets" to its first customers, offering a chance to win rewards including the grand prize of free Slim Chickens for a year. 

Each ticket guarantees a prize, from 10 per cent and 20 per cent discounts on future orders to free shakes and meals, ensuring everyone is a winner.

The first 30 guests through the doors on the opening day will also receive a complimentary serving of three pieces of chicken tenders.