I tried a saucy Slim Chickens meal before it opens in North Wales

Proposals have been submitted to convert the former Tim Hortons drive-thru at Broughton Shopping Park in Flintshire.

This marks a strategic move for the Arkansas-born brand, which has more than 70 UK locations but until now has no presence in North Wales.

The Broughton site is a high-footfall retail hub near the English border, making it a savvy choice for Slim Chickens’ regional entry.

We tried it!

With that in mind, during a recent visit to Cardiff with my nephew, I picked up some food from the Slim Chickens in the St David's Shopping Centres for us to try.

Signature items include hand-breaded chicken tenders, crispy wings, chicken sandwiches, mac & cheese, Texas toast, and seasoned fries.

More importantly there are more than a 15 dipping sauces, from ranch to spicy BBQ.

The restaurant was very busy with customers.

There were several self-service screens, but a member of staff would approach people to ask if they would like to eat in as it would have taking some imagination to find spare places to sit and eat.

We went for a tenders box that came with a choice of two of the 17 sauces.

One downside was that the printer on the self-service screens was not working, so we had to ask for our numbered receipt to be printed at the counter. Meaning we had to talk to an actual human being!

The choice of sauces really is a gamechanger, there really is something for everyone. Not just ketchup, mayo and BBQ here.

We went for the mango habanero and the spicy BBQ.

The former was fruity with just enough heat to require regular sips from our milkshakes.

Slim Chickens could be opening at Broughton next year. (Image: Handout)

The BBQ was rich and smoky, again with some heat that wasn't too overpowering.

The chicken tenders were very good, they felt fresh and the coating was crispy. Very much like those from KFC, with a little bit more of a kick of spice.

My nephew said he preferred McDonald's chicken nuggets. But he's 11 and puts ketchup on everything.

I, however, thought they were better - and they were the perfect size and shape for dipping, which is what is really important.

Slim Chickens at Cardiff. (Image: Newsquest)

The chips were very good, quite traditions, and closer to those in KFC and Five Guys than those at McDonalds.

There was also something unexpected in the box.

I had heard of Texas toast but had not expected it to come with our order.

Slim Chickens at Cardiff. (Image: Newsquest)

Texas toast is a thick-cut, buttery bread that's grilled or broiled until golden brown—often served as a side with Southern-style meals like fried chicken or, in this case, Slim Chickens’ tenders.

Slim Chickens at Cardiff. (Image: Newsquest)

To be honest, I'm not sure what it added other than more carbs and something else to dip in the sauce. However, I can see it's novelty value being a big hit.

Slim Chickens at Cardiff. (Image: Newsquest)

That said, with the unexpected addition of the Texas toast, I imagined how good it would be to dip it in the gravy or blue cheese sauce options.

We also had milkshakes, which were again very good. They were chilled but felt more like a real milkshake than a frozen dessert, with a rich dairy creaminess that can be lacking elsewhere.

Sauces at Slim Chickens in the UK:

• Slim Sauce – the signature creamy, tangy house blend
• Ranch – classic cool and herby
• Cayenne Ranch – ranch with a spicy kick
• Honey Mustard – sweet and sharp
• Blue Cheese – bold and creamy
• Gravy – rich and savoury, ideal for dipping fries or toast
• Garlic Parmesan – cheesy with a garlicky punch
• Korean BBQ – smoky, sweet, and umami-rich
• BBQ – traditional smoky barbecue
• Honey BBQ – sweeter take on the classic
• Spicy BBQ – with added heat
• Buffalo – tangy and peppery
• Hot – straightforward heat
• Sriracha Garlic – spicy with a garlicky twist
• Mango Habanero – fruity and fiery
• Sweet Red Chili – sweet with a mild spice
• Inferno – the hottest option on the menu

Slim Chickens

Slim Chickens stores are found in major cities like Cardiff, London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow, as well as retail parks and transport hubs.

Many branches offer takeaway, delivery via apps, and dine-in options, making it versatile for different customer needs

Slim Chickens is part of the “fast casual” movement, offering higher-quality food with quick service.

It’s seen as a competitor to KFC, Nando’s and Popeyes, Slim Chickens has a distinctly American Southern twist.

The chain has gained traction with younger audiences and families, thanks to its bold branding, generous portions, and loyalty schemes.

Broughton

The move at Broughton would replace Tim Hortons, which opened in 2021 as the Canadian chain’s first North Wales location.

Its short tenure hints at the competitive churn in the fast-food market, with nearby competition to the site from Nando's, McDonalds, Frankie and Benny's, and Starbucks.

A determination on the Slim Chickens proposal is expected by December 3, 2025.