Table of Contents
Introduction
Wondering about Dave’s Hot Chicken calories? This article provides a guide to calorie counts, lower-calorie menu options, and tips for ordering to help you make informed choices at this popular fried chicken chain.
Dave’s Hot Chicken is a popular fast-casual restaurant known for its spicy fried chicken and signature sauces. With locations rapidly expanding across the United States, many people are wondering about the calorie counts and nutrition information for menu items. Here’s what to know about Dave’s Hot Chicken calories before you order your next meal.
A Brief History of Dave’s Hot Chicken
Dave’s Hot Chicken Calories first opened its doors in East Hollywood, Los Angeles in 2018. Founded by Arman Oganesyan and chef Dave Kopushyan, the restaurant quickly gained a cult following for its unique take on Nashville hot chicken. Since then, Dave’s Hot Chicken has experienced rapid growth through franchising, with over 50 locations nationwide today.
Customers can choose from fried chicken tenders, chicken strips, and sandwiches. All items can be ordered at seven spice levels ranging from “No Spice” to the extra spicy “Reaper.” Signature sauce options like Red Hook and East Coast add even more flavor.
Checking the Dave’s Hot Chicken Calories Count
Many Dave’s Hot Chicken menu items are fried in oil and tossed in creamy, buttery sauces. So how many calories are you really getting with each tender, strip, or sandwich? Here’s a run-down of approximate calorie counts:
Calorie Ranges for Tenders and Strips
- 3 Piece Tenders: 440-1,020 calories
- 6 Piece Tenders: 880-2,040 calories
- 10 Piece Tenders: 1,480-3,400 calories
- 3 Piece Strips: 670-1,550 calories
- 6 Piece Strips: 1,340-3,100 calories
As shown, calories increase significantly with higher spice levels, which add more oil and sauce. Strips also have more calories than tenders due to their larger size.
Calorie Counts for Signature Sandwiches
Dave’s Hot Chicken sandwiches pack a caloric punch:
- Sliders: 710-1,380 calories (for 2 sliders)
- Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich: 1,100-1,680 calories
- Spicy Chicken Sandwich: 820-1,500 calories
Condiments like ranch or blue cheese dressing add even more calories. Overall, sandwiches average 1,000-1,400 calories each.
Calorie Ranges for Sides
- Fries: 370-830 calories
- Cheese Fries: 490-960 calories
- Mac and Cheese: 400-870 calories
- Slaw: 140-390 calories
- Roasted Broccoli: 70-190 calories
Choosing Lower Calorie Options at Dave’s
While the calorie counts may seem high at first glance, there are ways to enjoy Dave’s Hot Chicken without going overboard:
Opt for Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken strips and sandwiches have significantly fewer calories since they aren’t fried. A grilled chicken sandwich with no sauce is around 700 calories. Read also prime drink nutrition facts.
Pick Sauces Wisely
Skip the heaviest sauces like Blue Cheese and Red Hook, which add 150+ calories per dipping cup. Stick to lighter sauces like Ranch (50 calories per cup). Better yet, ask for sauce on the side and use sparingly.
Choose Lower Calorie Side Dishes
Pair your meal with roasted broccoli or slaw instead of mac and cheese or fries to cut calories. An order of slaw has about 300 fewer calories than fries.
Share an Order
Since servings are generous, consider splitting your order with a friend to control portions. Get 3 tenders each rather than 6 tenders for yourself.
Watch Portion Sizes
Even if you don’t split an order, just going for a 3-piece tender versus a 6-piece can save you hundreds of calories.
Summary
Dave’s Hot Chicken offers delicious comfort food, but the calories can add up fast. By customizing your order, watching portions, and choosing grilled and lower-calorie options, you can enjoy the spice without going overboard on calories. Focus on protein from grilled chicken rather than fried, and round out your meal with flavorful sides like broccoli and slaw. With smart choices, you can satisfy your craving while maintaining balanced nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in Dave’s Hot Chicken Calories tenders?
For a 6-piece tender meal, calories range from 880 for “No Spice” to 2,040 for “Reaper” spice level. Opt for a 3-piece to cut calories in half.
Which sandwich has the most calories at Dave’s?
The Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich tops out at around 1,680 calories. The Spicy Chicken Sandwich and Sliders are lower in calories.
What are some of the lowest calorie sides?
Try the slaw or roasted broccoli, with about 140-190 calories per side. These are lower in calories than the fries or mac and cheese.
Does Dave’s offer any grilled chicken options?
Yes, Dave’s has grilled chicken strips and sandwiches. Since they aren’t fried, they cut about 200-400 calories compared to fried chicken items.
Should I ask for sauce on the side?
Definitely – sauces can add 150+ calories per dipping cup. Asking for sauce on the side allows you to control how much you use.
