Dave’s Hot Chicken is a popular spot for its spicy Nashville-style chicken. But what if you’re watching your calories? With its Nashville-style spice and incredibly tasty tenders and sliders, Dave’s has become the go-to spot for folks who like their food with a kick.
But here’s the thing: I love a good spicy chicken sandwich and care about what I put in my body.
So, I decided to dig into the nutritional facts behind Dave’s menu. Sometimes those cravings hit hard, and it’s good to know what you’re getting into.
In this blog post, we’ll break down Dave’s hot chicken menu, take a closer look at the nutrition, and even give you some tips on how to enjoy their food without feeling guilty.
A Quick Look at Dave’s Hot Chicken
Before we delve into the nitty-gritty of nutrition, let’s take a moment to appreciate the phenomenon that is Dave’s Hot Chicken.
Born from humble beginnings as a late-night pop-up in East Hollywood, Dave’s quickly gained notoriety for its uncompromisingly spicy chicken tenders.
Word spread like wildfire, fueled by social media buzz and the emotional cravings of spice enthusiasts.
Fast forward a few years, and Dave’s has exploded onto the scene, opening numerous locations across the United States. What sets them apart?
It’s not just the heat—it’s the commitment to quality ingredients and a simple, yet crave-worthy menu centered around chicken tenders, sliders, and a few well-chosen sides.
What’s on the Table: (and How Spicy Is It?)
One thing to keep in mind is the spice level. Dave’s is famous for its seriously hot chicken. If you’re not a big fan of spice, start with “No Spice” or “Lite Mild.”
If you are feeling brave, you can work your way up to “Medium,” “Hot,” “Extra Hot,” and the ultimate challenge, “Reaper.”
Here’s a quick look at the Dave’s Hot Chicken menu:
| Menu Item | Description | Spice Levels | Price |
| Tenders | Chicken tenders (2, 3, or 5 pieces) | No Spice – Reaper | $7 – $12 |
| Sliders | Tender or chicken breast on a slider bun | No Spice – Reaper | $5 – $7 |
| Sides | Fries, Kale Slaw, Mac & Cheese | N/A | $3 – $5 |
| Drinks | Milkshakes (Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberry), Sodas | N/A | $3 – $5 |
What are the Calorie Counts for Each Spice Level?
Surprisingly, the spice level doesn’t significantly impact the calorie count of the chicken itself. The difference lies primarily in the sauces and breading.
Here’s a rough estimate based on available information:
| Item | Calories (approx.) |
| 2 Tenders (any spice) | 500-600 |
| Slider (any spice) | 300-400 |
| 5 Wings (any spice) | 600-700 |
The sides are where things can get calorically dense. The cheese fries and mac and cheese are particularly indulgent, while the kale slaw offers a lighter option.
Dave’s Hot Chicken Nutrition: The Good, the Bad, and the Spicy
Okay, let’s get real about nutrition. Dave’s isn’t exactly healthy food, but you can still enjoy it every once in a while.
A typical chicken tender at Dave’s has around 350-500 calories, depending on the spice level and whether it’s fried or grilled.
The sliders are in the same ballpark, with about 400-600 calories each. And the sides like fries and mac & cheese aren’t exactly light either.
The chicken itself is a good source of protein, but the frying and sauces add quite a bit of fat. The breading and sides are high in carbs, and the sauces and seasonings can pack a salty punch.
Dave’s Hot Chicken Menu With Prices
Their menu is simple but packs a punch. They focus on two main things: hot chicken tenders and sliders. Dave’s offers a range of spice levels from “No Spice” to the infamous “Reaper,” guaranteed to leave you sweating.
But it’s not just about the heat. Each tender or slider is perfectly crispy, juicy, and well-seasoned, creating a symphony of flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
They offer a variety of chicken tenders, sliders, and cauliflower tenders, all of which are made with their secret spice blend.
Their sides include fries, mac and cheese, and kale slaw. They also offer a variety of shakes and soft drinks.
The Menu Price and Nutrition Info
Please note: Prices and calorie counts are approximate and may vary by location. Calorie counts are for the chicken itself and do not include breading or sauce.
Best Sellers
| Name | Description | Price | Nutrition Info (Calories) |
| Dave’s Hot Chicken Tenders (2, 3, or 5 pc) | Classic tenders with choice of spice level (Lite Mild, Mild, Medium, Hot, Extra Hot, Reaper) | $6.99 – $14.99 | 500-600 (per 2 tenders) |
| Dave’s Hot Chicken Sliders (2 pc) | Chicken tenders on slider buns, choice of spice level | $8.49 | 300-400 (per slider) |
| Dave’s Fries (Small, Large) | Classic crinkle-cut fries | $3.49 – $4.49 | 250-350 (small) |
| Mac and Cheese (Small, Large) | Creamy mac and cheese | $3.99 – $4.99 | 350-450 (small) |
| Kale Slaw (Small, Large) | Crunchy kale slaw with vinaigrette | $3.49 – $4.49 | 100-150 (small) |
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Dave’s Bites
| Name | Description | Price | Nutrition Info (Calories) |
| Dave’s Boneless Bites (10 pc) | Boneless chicken bites with choice of spice level | $8.99 | 400-500 |
| Dave’s Cauliflower Bites (6 pc) | Cauliflower bites with choice of spice level | $4.29 | 300-400 |
Top Loaded Shakes
| Name | Description | Price | Nutrition Info (Calories) |
| Chocolate Shake (Small, Large) | Classic chocolate shake | $4.99 – $5.99 | 350-450 (small) |
| Strawberry Shake (Small, Large) | Classic strawberry shake | $4.99 – $5.99 | 350-450 (small) |
| Vanilla Shake (Small, Large) | Classic vanilla shake | $4.99 – $5.99 | 350-450 (small) |
| Peanut Butter Shake (Small, Large) | Peanut butter shake | $4.99 – $5.99 | 450-550 (small) |
| Oreo Shake (Small, Large) | Oreo shake | $4.99 – $5.99 | 450-550 (small) |
Feed A Crowd
| Name | Description | Price |
| Dave’s Hot Chicken Feast | 20 tenders, 2 large sides, 4 dipping sauces | $49.99 |
| Dave’s Hot Chicken Sandwich Party | 10 sandwiches, 2 large sides, 4 dipping sauces | $49.99 |
| Dave’s Hot Chicken Wing Party | 50 wings, 2 large sides, 4 dipping sauces | $49.99 |
Dave’s Hot Chicken Meals
| Name | Description | Price |
| Dave’s Hot Chicken Tenders Meal | 2 tenders, side, drink | $10.99 – $14.99 |
| Dave’s Hot Chicken Sliders Meal | 2 sliders, side, drink | $12.49 |
| Dave’s Hot Chicken Sandwich Meal | Sandwich, side, drink | $12.99 – $16.99 |
Sides
| Name | Description | Price | Nutrition Info (Calories) |
| Dave’s Fries (Small, Large) | Classic crinkle-cut fries | $3.49 – $4.49 | 250-350 (small) |
| Mac and Cheese (Small, Large) | Creamy mac and cheese | $3.99 – $4.99 | 350-450 (small) |
| Kale Slaw (Small, Large) | Crunchy kale slaw with vinaigrette | $3.49 – $4.49 | 100-150 (small) |
| Dave’s Coleslaw (Small, Large) | Classic coleslaw | $3.49 – $4.49 | 150-200 (small) |
| Dave’s Green Beans | Seasoned green beans | $3.49 – $4.49 | 50-100 |
Dave’s NOT Chicken (Cauli)™
| Name | Description | Price | Nutrition Info (Calories) |
| Dave’s NOT Chicken (Cauli)™ Tenders (2, 3, or 5 pc) | Cauliflower tenders with choice of spice level | $6.99 – $14.99 | 400-500 (per 2 tenders) |
| Dave’s NOT Chicken (Cauli)™ Bites (10 pc) | Cauliflower bites with choice of spice level | $8.99 | 300-400 |
Drinks
| Name | Description | Price | Nutrition Info (Calories) |
| Soft Drinks (20 oz) | Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, etc. | $2.99 | 0-250 |
| Bottled Water | Bottled water | $1.99 | 0 |
How can I make healthier choices when ordering at Dave’s?
Here are a few tips:
- Choose a lower spice level: The hotter the spice, the more likely you are to douse your chicken in cooling sauces, which can add extra calories and sugar.
- Go for the tenders or sliders: They tend to be smaller portions than the wings.
- Skip the bread: If you’re watching your carbs, ask for your chicken “naked” (without the breading).
- Opt for the kale slaw: It’s a much lighter side option than the fries or mac and cheese.
- Share with a friend: Splitting a meal is a great way to cut calories in half.
- Don’t drink your calories: Choose water or unsweetened tea over sugary sodas.
In Conclusion…
Dave’s Hot Chicken is undeniably delicious, but it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional impact.
By understanding the menu, making informed choices, and practicing moderation, you can enjoy those fiery flavors without sacrificing your health goals.
Remember, food is meant to be savored, not stressed over.
FAQs
What nutritional information is available in-store or online?
Dave’s is gradually making nutritional information more accessible. Some locations have brochures available, and there are snippets of information on their website.
However, a comprehensive breakdown of each item’s nutritional profile isn’t readily available yet.
What are the ingredients in Dave’s Hot Chicken’s breading and spice blends?
This is where things get a bit murky. Dave’s is tight-lipped about their secret recipe. However, we know the breading contains wheat flour, and the spice blends likely include cayenne pepper, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and other common spices.
If you have specific allergies or sensitivities, it’s best to inquire at the restaurant.
Should I be concerned about the sodium levels?
Yes, the sodium content at Dave’s can be quite high, so moderation is key, especially if you’re watching your salt intake.
When is the best time to eat at Dave’s to fit into a healthy diet?
If you’re aiming for a healthy lifestyle, consider Dave’s as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular habit.
Choosing a smaller portion or sharing it with a friend can help manage calorie intake.
James Philip is a food enthusiast from Florida whose love for cooking blossomed in his backyard. Growing up, he was surrounded by the rich culinary diversity of his home state, from fresh seafood to vibrant citrus fruits. His interest in food sparked early, as he started helping his parents prepare family meals, often experimenting with spices and flavors.
