ATLANTA — Zaxby’s is starting the new year by reviving two of its most successful menu experiments. On Wednesday, January 14, 2026, the saucy chicken chain announced the return of both Southern Fried Shrimp and Giant Chicken Quesadillas to participating locations nationwide.
Beginning Monday, January 19, 2026, customers can once again order these limited-time offers (LTOs). This marks the third consecutive year for the shrimp and the second for the quesadillas, signaling that these items are transitioning from “innovations” to reliable seasonal staples for the brand.
The “ZaxSeas” Lineup
The return of Southern Fried Shrimp includes three specific ordering options, positioning Zaxby’s as a direct competitor to traditional seafood fast-food chains during the early year window:
- ZaxSeas Surf & Turf Meal: A combination of three classic Chicken Fingerz™ and eight crispy butterflied shrimp, served with Zax Sauce®, Texas Toast, Crinkle Fries, and a drink.
- Southern Fried Shrimp Meal: Eight shrimp served with Zax Sauce, toast, fries, and a drink.
- Southern Fried Shrimp Side: A standalone side of eight shrimp and sauce, designed to be added to any existing meal.
The Giant Quesadilla Returns
Originally debuted last year to rival Chipotle and Taco Bell, the “Giant” quesadilla line features large flour tortillas stuffed with chopped Chicken Fingerz™. Two varieties are returning:
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadilla: Filled with chicken, hardwood-smoked bacon, Cheddar Jack cheese, and Ranch dressing.
- Chicken Fajita Quesadilla: Features chicken, grilled onions and peppers, Cheddar Jack cheese, and Southwest Ranch.
Patrick Schwing, Chief Marketing and Strategy Officer at Zaxby’s, noted the customer demand driving these returns:
“Our guests have told us loud and clear, Southern Fried Shrimp and our GIANT Chicken Quesadillas are two menu items they crave. We’re bringing both back to give them exactly what they want – our famous fingerz and sauces in new meals that they can only get at Zaxbys.”
Why It Matters
For the fast-casual industry, January is often a testing ground for retaining holiday traffic. By bringing back two major LTOs simultaneously, Zaxby’s is aggressively targeting different customer bases: seafood lovers (often courted during Lent season) and heavy-usage lunch diners looking for portable, non-fried-chicken-basket options like quesadillas.
The strategy of “Surf & Turf” in a fast-food setting is relatively rare, giving Zaxby’s a unique value proposition against competitors like Raising Cane’s or Chick-fil-A, which rarely deviate from their core poultry offerings. Contact Us!
Zaxby’s will continue this customer-driven innovation strategy in the weeks ahead. Building on the return of fan-favorite menu items, the chain is set to expand its flavor platform with new dry rub seasonings, including Garlic Parmesan and Nashville Hot, while also introducing a limited-time Peaches & Cream Milkshake. Together, these launches will reinforce the brand’s focus on leveraging proven consumer preferences to drive repeat visits, whether through returning menu formats, flavor customization, or seasonal dessert offerings.
