Data from Technomic's Digital Resource Library shows that some of the fastest-growing limited-service chains are chicken brands. Year-over-year sales in 2015 for the chicken industry rose 8%, and Technomic predicts the chicken industry to sustain that rate of growth for 2016. Consumers are flocking to these chicken restaurants for better-for-you takes on an American favorite, whether that's never-frozen chicken tenders or marinated grilled chicken.

Three prime examples of fast-growing chicken concepts are Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers, PDQ and Nando's. Each brand has its own unique approach, from innovative menu offerings to eclectic ambiance. Key takeaways from these findings include:

- Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers has a simple, approachable menu of fresh food combined with a family-friendly, pop culture-themed setting has propelled Raising Cane's growth, with 2015 year-over-year sales number of units up 26% and 18%, respectively.

- PDQ operates primarily in the south but is expanding to the north and west, leading to a 2015 year-over-year growth in sales and units of 61% and 52%, respectively.

- Nando's has been expanding in the US, with year-over-year US sales and unit growths of 33% and 40%, respectively, specializing in peri peri chicken in a range of spice levels.

With a database of 1,500 commercial operator profiles, as well as 1,500+ noncommercial profiles, the Digital Resource Library serves as a guide for foodservice operators and suppliers to leverage industry intelligence and stay competitive in the foodservice landscape.