Jawad Rawra is opening the Soon to be Famous™ chicken franchise’s first location in Rockwall.
Rockwall, TX – 2026 – Layne’s Chicken Fingers, the fan-favorite chicken franchise out of Texas, is coming to Rockwall. Opening on April 14th, 2026, at 1801 Goliad Street, the new location will give Rockwall residents a chance to find out what has made Layne’s an iconic name in Texas. (Hint: chicken fingers don’t get much crispier than these.) The grand opening takes place on Saturday, April 18th, 2026, where the first 100 dine-in guests will receive free Layne’s for a year.
Before Jawad Rawra’s American Dream was set in motion, he spent his early career working 12-hour shifts, seven days a week at AT&T Wireless — picking up additional odd jobs in between to make ends meet. In 2007, after facing rejections from major telecommunications giants, he got an opportunity to become a T-Mobile Premium Retailer. What started as one location has now grown to 14 different states.
After years of successfully running his telecom business, he expanded his footprint in 2016 by partnering with hospitality brands such as Marriott, Hilton & Hyatt. To further his vision Jawad decided it was time to look into properties that would move the dial on his ultimate goal: to serve the community. When he thought of Layne’s, the beloved Texas-born brand known for its crispy chicken fingers and signature “secret sauce,” he knew it was the perfect fit.
“During the journey of diversifying my portfolio, I was looking into different QSR industries, and Layne’s always stood out,” said Jawad. “Anytime I have taken my family or friends to a Layne’s restaurant, everyone raves about the quality and taste.”
The menu will feature irresistible twists on classic fried chicken fare, including a three-finger chicken sandwich served on Texas toast, a fried chicken club sandwich with bacon and cheddar and of course, chicken fingers served with insanely addictive sauces like buttermilk ranch, honey mustard, BBQ and Layne’s — a tangy, zesty in-house creation that has become a go-to among loyal customers.
Layne’s new Rockwall location is the latest addition to the fast-growing franchise brand’s roster of thriving restaurants, including 27 in Texas.
“As we accelerate growth across Texas, bringing on experienced operators like Jawad is key to doing it the right way,” said Layne’s CEO Garrett Reed. “His diverse business background and community-first mindset make him an ideal fit, and Rockwall represents another exciting step in expanding Layne’s footprint in markets where we know the brand will thrive.”
In 2026, Layne’s is looking forward to an additional 40 restaurant openings, continued revenue growth and thoughtful footprint expansion. With a powerful support team and strong logistical framework, Layne’s maintains its focus on strategic national growth, emphasizing franchisee alignment and cultural fits on the path to 300 units.
ABOUT LAYNE’S CHICKEN FINGERS
Founded in 1994 in College Station, the original location became a Texas A&M legend known for its small-town charm, friendly service, iconic chicken fingers and secret sauce. While opening corporate locations across the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the leadership team focused on fine-tuning its operations and starting to franchise.
Franchise opportunities range from $451,500 to $1,050,000 with different buildout options available. Learn more about franchising here.
Submitted by Gabriella Trani, Mainland | Media Relations Specialist
