Shaq’s Big Chicken Faces Permit Trouble in Lake Charles—Here’s Why

In December 2023, I brought you the exciting news that Lake Charles was chosen to be the home of Louisiana’s very first standalone Shaq’s Big Chicken Restaurant.

Backed by NBA Hall of Famer and LSU alum Shaquille O’Neal, the Big Chicken brand has exploded nationwide with its bold flavors, Southern comfort menu, and signature Shaq-sized personality. From its 2018 launch in Las Vegas to locations in Houston, Austin, Baltimore, and Seattle, and even a successful partnership with Carnival Cruise ships, Big Chicken quickly became a fan favorite.

Shaq's restaurant is holding its own in the restaurant biz, earning respect in the food world as being a serious contender when it comes to serving up delicious and affordable food. The Shaquille O’Neal-Owned restaurant is racking up awards, including its recent accolade by the International Franchise Association with Big Chicken named the “2024 Brand of the Year.”

Images for Carnival Cruisee 4X NBA legend has the #1 ranked franchised. In 2024 Shaq's Big Chicken took the top honors at the Fast Casual Top 100 Movers & Shakers Awards Gala in Fast Casual’s “Top 100 Movers & Shakers.” With a menu boasting Louisiana-style fried chicken sandwiches, Cheez-It mac & cheese, salads, and cookies the size of basketballs, plus the unique offering of alcoholic beverages in select locations, Shaq’s eatery was set to bring something fresh, award-winning, and fun to Lake Charles.

Franchisees Gul and Vick Awan, based right here in Southwest Louisiana, were ready to make it happen—with this being the first location of its kind in the state. The second Shaq's Big Chicken was planned for Lafayette. However, it appears Lafayette will beat Lake Charles in getting the honor of being home to Shaq's first Louisiana restaurant.

According to Developing Lafayette, the new expansion to Destination Pointe just off I-10 in Scott, LA is set to be the sight of Big Chicken. Destination Pointe has the permits ready to go and is expected to start construction on Shaq's new restaurant with expectations of opening in 2025.

Since opening its first location in Las Vegas in 2018, the brand has rapidly grown, with multiple locations nationwide. The Scott location will further solidify Big Chicken’s presence in Louisiana, with plans for additional openings in key markets.

What Happened With The Shaq's Big Chicken Development In Lake Charles?

On March 10, 2025, The Advocate reported the Lake Charles Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously rejected the permits for the proposed Big Chicken site on Nelson Road. The issue? The restaurant’s planned entrance would connect to Sarah Lane, a dead-end residential street, which some nearby residents voiced concerns about at the commission meeting.

The decision sparked frustration and confusion among supporters, as the Awan family had worked for over a year on the project. Following the permit denial, the Awans appealed the decision, sending it to the Lake Charles City Council. The council was set to vote at their May meeting, but NOLA.com reports, that vote has now been deferred to June 4, 2025, after the applicants requested more time.

A spokesperson for the City of Lake Charles confirmed the delay, and for now, the Big Chicken project hangs in the balance—despite public anticipation and the potential economic boost to the area.

Should city zoning stop Shaq’s Big Chicken from opening in Lake Charles?

So now we ask you—did the Planning and Zoning Commission get it right, or did they fumble a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Lake Charles? Let us know, if is this a smart zoning move or a bad business message to future investors.