They are called “Slimthusiasts”, a devoted fanbase that distinguish themselves from all chicken lovers by being “better chicken” followers.

Slim Chickens retaurants North Alabama is about to join the fan club as Slim Chickens is opening three locations in Madison County: Clift Farm, Town Madison, and off South Memorial Parkway in Huntsville in the former Ruby Tuesday’s building.

In a multi-unit agreement with Legends Development, Slim Chickens will develop nine restaurants across Alabama in Madison, Marshall, Etowah, Lee, Montgomery, Mobile and Talladega counties.

“We became ‘Slimthusiasts’ with our first bite of Slims made to order fresh food,” said Legends Development co-founder Alan Renfroe. “After meeting with the leadership team, understanding their vision and culture, and touring the restaurants, we knew we had to be part of this amazing concept.

“We are thrilled to launch our first locations in the Rocket City and look forward to serving other Alabama communities.”

Slim Chickens is known for its cooked-to-order fresh food and chicken tenders with 17 house-made dipping sauces. The extended menu also includes fresh salads, sandwiches, wraps, chicken wings and chicken and waffles.

There are also hand-spun milkshakes and unique desserts such as chocolate brownie pudding in a jar.

Slim Chickens restaurants’ southern contemporary look and open and hospitable layout featuring a fast casual dine-in layout and drive-through are expected to be a blast throughout the Rocket City.

According to Jackie Lobdell, vice president of Franchise Development at Slim Chickens, Legends Development is the perfect franchise partner.

“We are very excited to grow the Slim Chickens brand and break into new markets in Alabama over the coming months,” he said.

Slim Chickens has already broken ground on its Clift Farm location at Clift Farm and will hold a groundbreaking ceremony at Town Madison this month.

The Slim Chickens franchise got its start in Fayetteville, Ark., in 2003. Now, there are more than 125 locations across the United States, Kuwait, and the United Kingdom, with more than 500 locations in development.