The promise of one years’ worth of free chicken was enough for more than 100 people to brave the cold outside Raising Cane's in Middlesex County – the first location in central New Jersey.

The new storefront at the Edison Crossroads Shopping Center on Route 1 is the sixth location to open in the state. The Baton Rouge franchise is known for its chicken fingers and Cane's Sauce.

Customers set up camp as early as 11 p.m. Monday night despite temperatures dipping into the teens.

In addition to the chance to win free food for a year, the restaurant offered smaller giveaways and performances by local high school cheer groups to celebrate the grand opening.

Raising Cane's is targeting northern New Jersey next with a location set to open soon on Route 46 in Fairfield Township.