Zaxbys Southern Fried Shrimp and Giant Quesadillas return Jan 19. Enjoy the ZaxSeas Surf & Turf or Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadilla for a limited time only.

Zaxbys Southern Fried Shrimp
Photo Credit: Zaxbys

The new year is getting a lot saucier. Zaxbys has officially announced the return of two major fan-favorite menu items: Southern Fried Shrimp and Giant Chicken Quesadillas. Starting January 19, 2026, guests can head to participating locations to enjoy these limited-time offerings.

Zaxbys Southern Fried Shrimp: A Triple Threat from the “ZaxSeas”

Making its third consecutive annual appearance, Zaxbys Southern Fried Shrimp is back to satisfy seafood cravings with the brand’s signature breading. This year, the “ZaxSeas” menu includes three distinct ways to enjoy the crispy, butterflied shrimp:

  • ZaxSeas Surf & Turf Meal: The ultimate combo featuring eight Southern Fried Shrimp and three Chicken Fingerz™ served with Zax Sauce®, Texas Toast, Crinkle Fries, and a drink.
  • Southern Fried Shrimp Meal: Eight crispy shrimp paired with Zax Sauce, Texas Toast, Crinkle Fries, and a drink.
  • Southern Fried Shrimp Side: A standalone order of eight shrimp with Zax Sauce to add to any order.

Going BIG with Giant Quesadillas

Following a massive debut last year, the Giant Quesadillas are returning to the lineup. These aren’t your average quesadillas; each one is packed with three hand-breaded Chicken Fingerz™ and folded into a warm flour tortilla. Fans can choose between two bold flavor profiles:

  1. Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadilla: Loaded with Chicken Fingerz™, Cheddar Jack cheese, hardwood-smoked bacon, and creamy Ranch dressing.
  2. Chicken Fajita Quesadilla: Packed with Chicken Fingerz™, Cheddar Jack cheese, grilled onions and peppers, and Southwest Ranch.

A Message from Zaxbys

According to the brand, these returns are a direct response to customer demand for innovative ways to enjoy their famous chicken and sauces.

“We’re kicking off the new year with bold flavor and fan-favorites,” said Patrick Schwing, Chief Marketing and Strategy Officer at Zaxbys. “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. Whether you’re diving back into the ‘ZaxSeas’ or doubling down on bold, cheesy flavor, Zaxbys is making sure its fans start the year right.”

These items will be available for a limited time at participating Zaxbys locations starting Monday, January 19. For more information or to find your nearest location in Orlando or in your local area, visit zaxbys.com

For more theme park-related news and information, visit MSM News. As always, eat like you mean it!

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Jon Self

Jon Self is an avid theme park fan. You can follow him at @pastorjonself on X/ Twitter or Jon.Self.37 at Instagram. He has been writing and editing in the theme park media world for over a decade. He also writes for several "foodie" sites as well as in the faith-based world.