Big Chicken Will Open Restaurant in Jackson
The restaurant founded by Shaquille O'Neal is set to launch at the Jackson State University Student Center.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Dining Out
Live Poll
Would you visit a new restaurant if it opened on your local college campus?
Big Chicken will open a new location at the Jackson State University Student Center on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. This establishment replaces the former Chick-fil-A site within the university's legacy food court.
Why it matters
Founder Shaquille O'Neal chose an HBCU campus for this restaurant to provide motivation for students and support higher education. This marks the first and only Big Chicken location currently operating in Mississippi.
The new Big Chicken restaurant occupies the former Chick-fil-A site at the Jackson State University Student Center. It is the sole location for the chain in Mississippi.
The players
Big Chicken
This fast-casual restaurant chain was founded by basketball legend Shaquille O'Neal.
Jackson State University
This is a public historically black research university located in Jackson, Mississippi.
The details
The restaurant is open to both the public and university students. The space was formerly occupied by a Chick-fil-A before this transition to the Big Chicken brand.
Timeline
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Friday, September 11, 2026.
The official grand opening is scheduled for Tuesday, September 22, 2026.
Roadmap
This expansion reflects a broader trend of HBCUs modernizing campus food courts through partnerships with celebrity-backed brands. It positions the franchise to capture consistent student foot traffic while diversifying dining options in the university environment.
Students and Jackson residents will gain access to a new dining choice when the restaurant opens later this month. The location is integrated into the JSU Student Center, providing a convenient meal option for those on or near campus.
The takeaway
Students can look forward to a new dining experience as part of the university's updated food court lineup. The initiative underscores the role of campus partnerships in bringing high-profile brands to the local community.
Further reading
For more on the local culinary landscape, visit Dining Out.
Live Poll
Would you visit a new restaurant if it opened on your local college campus?
