Chicken Republic in Agidingbi lives up to the hype

In a market where affordability is key, Chicken Republic stands out as a favourite fast-food franchise.

Known not only for its tasty chicken-based meals but also for its budget-friendly prices, Chicken Republic has earned the loyalty of many Lagosians.

Chicken Republic’s menu includes a wide variety of options such as fried chicken, grilled chicken, chicken burgers, and wraps. These main dishes are complemented by side items like fries, rice, coleslaw, and salads.A key feature of Chicken Republic is its value-driven offerings. From their popular ‘Refuel’ meals to various combo deals, the franchise consistently caters to customers seeking quality meals at low prices. In 2022, during a challenging economic period, the restaurant introduced a special value meal consisting of white rice, stew, and egg to accommodate those with limited financial means.

Despite recent economic challenges that have led to a slight increase in the cost of their value meals, Chicken Republic remains committed to affordability.

Initiatives such as their ‘Buy One, Get One Free’ Tuesdays continue to provide significant savings, ensuring that even low-income earners and students can still enjoy their meals.

We visited the drive-through outlet at Agidingbi, Ikeja to try out their meals, and put the Chicken Republic hype through our 13-point review system.

• Menu variety – 8/10
• Food Quality – 8/10
• Service – 9/10
• Ambience – 8/10
• Value for money – 8/10
• Hygiene standards – 9/10
• Accessibility – 9/10
• Consistency – 8/10
• Innovation – 8/10
• Sustainability – 8/10
• Waiting time – 8/10
• Online presence – 9/10
• Special features – 6/10

If you agree or disagree with our ratings and would like to provide your own review, head over to our review form, leave your review for all 13 criteria and an Ikeja Record editor will be in touch. To maintain the integrity of our evaluation system, we do not accept or publish reviews from persons directly associated with the restaurants they are reviewing, including (but not limited to) owners, investors, and staff.

Menu Variety

Chicken Republic offers a diverse menu featuring both chicken-based and popular Nigerian dishes.

Their main dishes include fried and grilled chicken in various portion sizes, chicken burgers, chicken wraps, jollof rice, fried rice, spaghetti, and rice and beans.

On the side dish menu, you will find fries, coleslaw, fried plantains, salads, and moi-moi.

Their breakfast menu consists of coffee and chicken sandwiches, popularly known as ChickWizz, as well as chicken pie and meat pies. For sweet treats, they offer vanilla ice cream and various carbonated beverages.

Food Quality

During our visit, we decided to try their spaghetti and sauce with fried chicken instead of the usual rice meals. We also sampled coffee and a chicken sandwich (ChickWizz), chicken and chips, chicken pie, and ice cream.

The fried chicken was crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The ChickWizz sandwich lived up to the hype, with well-toasted bread and succulent chicken, making it both crispy and creamy. All our meals were served hot, and the freshness was evident in both taste and texture.

The vanilla ice cream was plain but creamy and enjoyable. However, more flavour options would be a welcome addition for customers.

The presentation of dishes at Chicken Republic is clean and appealing. Our meals were served in a neat and organised manner.

The fried chicken pieces were well-arranged and accompanied by sides in separate compartments. The chicken sandwich was carefully wrapped in paper, ensuring it was easy to eat and visually appetising.

Service

“Nice, nice!” is a popular phrase used by the staff at all Chicken Republic outlets to alert the kitchen of a new order. This unique touch adds to the restaurant’s friendly atmosphere.

The staff’s welcoming attitude, quick service, and professional conduct significantly contribute to Chicken Republic’s popularity and customer loyalty.

The counter staff were friendly and warm, patiently addressing all our inquiries about the meals and kindly recommending affordable options.

The restaurant employs a streamlined ordering process with multiple counters to handle dine-in and takeout orders separately, ensuring efficient service for all customers.

Ambience

The decor in all Chicken Republic outlets in Lagos features a bright and cheerful colour scheme of yellow, red, grey, and white.

The seating areas are designed to be comfortable, with a mix of tables and booths to accommodate different group sizes.

The atmosphere at Chicken Republic is lively and bustling. The ambience is family-friendly, making it suitable for people of all ages. Music is often played at a moderate volume, adding to the vibrant feel without overwhelming conversation.

Value for Money

Chicken Republic offers excellent value for money by providing good food and reliable service at affordable prices.

Although the prices of their meals have increased due to the economic situation in Nigeria, they remain relatively affordable compared to other fast food restaurants.

For N12,000, we were able to get a breakfast meal option, chicken and chips for lunch, spaghetti and chicken for dinner, and treats like a cold beverage, ice cream, and chicken pie.

The balance of quality and affordability makes Chicken Republic a popular choice for those looking for a quick yet satisfying food experience in Lagos.

Hygiene Standards

Every Chicken Republic outlet is designed with a spacious layout to ensure easy movement and a pleasant dining experience, even during peak hours.

The restaurants are renowned for their well-maintained and hygienic environments. Tables, floors, and restrooms undergo regular cleaning, and the staff diligently maintain cleanliness throughout the day.

In some locations, the kitchen area is visible, showcasing an organised and sanitary environment. At the Agidingbi outlet, customers can observe cooks behind the counter wearing hair nets and other sanitary clothing, reassuring them about the quality and safety standards of their food.

Location

With over 35 outlets strategically located across Lagos, Chicken Republic ensures easy accessibility for both residents and visitors.

Their outlets are situated in convenient areas with ample parking options, and they offer additional conveniences such as delivery and drive-thru services, catering to customer needs.

The standalone Chicken Republic outlet at Agidingbi exemplifies this convenience with its dedicated parking lot and drive-thru service, providing quick and efficient options for customers on the move.

The Chicken Republic outlet at Agidingbi is designed with accessibility in mind. It featured ramps and wide doorways to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids, ensuring that all customers can enter and exit the restaurant comfortably and safely. This commitment to accessibility enhances the overall dining experience for everyone.

Consistency

With 20 years of dedicated service, Chicken Republic has established a reputation for upholding a consistently high standard of food quality throughout its numerous outlets.

As a frequent customer, we’ve experienced firsthand that their dishes maintain the same delicious taste across Lagos.

Whether it’s their crispy fried chicken, flavorful rice dishes, or delectable pastries, customers can attest to the consistent flavours and textures that define Chicken Republic.

This commitment to maintaining unwavering food quality and reliable service has earned Chicken Republic a trusted and beloved status among fast food enthusiasts in Lagos.

Innovation

In 2019, Chicken Republic expanded its offerings with Pie Xpress, a confectionery subsidiary brand aimed at enticing new customers, particularly those who favour drive-through takeout options.

Pie Xpress kiosks are conveniently located in various filling stations across Lagos and can also be found within any Chicken Republic outlet.

Their drive-thru outlets represent an innovative approach to enhancing the speed and efficiency of ordering meals.

Chicken Republic continually refreshes its menu by introducing new dishes and seasonal specials, keeping it dynamic and appealing to both loyal patrons and newcomers seeking variety.

Furthermore, the ability for customers to personalise their meals adds an element of innovation and customization.

From choosing different sides to adding extras or adjusting spice levels, customers can tailor their dining experience to suit their preferences, ensuring a unique and satisfying visit each time.

Sustainability

Chicken Republic has recently embraced eco-friendly practices by implementing biodegradable packaging and reducing plastic usage.

Earlier this year, the fast food chain adhered to the Lagos State Government’s directive to discontinue the use of styrofoam containers for serving food, aligning with efforts to mitigate environmental pollution.

These initiatives resonate well with environmentally conscious customers and demonstrate Chicken Republic’s forward-thinking approach to sustainability.

In addition to phasing out styrofoam, Chicken Republic utilises paper-based packaging for items such as burger wrappers, sandwich wraps, and paper bags. These materials are not only more environmentally friendly but also easier to recycle compared to their plastic counterparts.

Waiting Time

As a fast-food restaurant, Chicken Republic operates on a self-service model where customers typically find their own seats after placing their orders at the counter.

During off-peak hours, particularly on weekdays, customers can usually find seating immediately after ordering. However, during peak meal times like lunch and dinner, especially in busy locations, there may be a short wait to secure available seating.

The turnover is generally rapid as many customers opt for takeout.

The time from placing an order to receiving food varies and largely depends on the queue length. For popular items like fried chicken, rice, side dishes, and pastries that are often pre-prepared, orders are typically served within 5 to 15 minutes.

During our visit, our order of ChickWizz and chicken and chips was served in about 15 minutes. Menu items that require additional preparation, such as grilled chicken, may take slightly longer to be ready.

Online Presence and Ease of Reservations

Chicken Republic’s website is well-designed and user-friendly, providing comprehensive information in an easily accessible manner.

Across various social media platforms, Chicken Republic maintains an interactive presence. They frequently host giveaway contests, announce new menu items, promote discount deals, and engage with customers through various activities.

This approach not only informs customers about the latest offerings but also cultivates a sense of community and excitement around the brand.

Their social media channels also serve as effective customer service platforms. They promptly address customer inquiries and concerns raised in comments or direct messages, enhancing overall customer satisfaction and fostering loyalty.

Chicken Republic also offers convenient delivery services through their app and third-party platforms like ChowDeck and Glovo. This initiative modernises the customer experience, ensuring that customers can enjoy their favourite meals conveniently from the comfort of their homes or offices.

Special Features

Chicken Republic distinguishes itself through several unique selling points, including its renowned signature chicken recipes, value meals, and family-friendly dining options.

The availability of drive-thru options at select locations and efficient takeout services further enhance convenience for customers, catering to those on the go.

Periodically, Chicken Republic runs thematic promotions and events that elevate the dining experience.

These initiatives may include special holiday menus, promotional deals, themed decor, or interactive campaigns that engage customers both in-store and online, fostering a dynamic and enjoyable atmosphere for all patrons.