If you’re a fan of spicy, crispy chicken, chances are you’ve already heard of Dave’s Hot Chicken — the popular Nashville-style spot that’s taken over taste buds across the U.S. But have you ever wondered how many calories are hiding behind that crunchy goodness?
In this post, we’ll break down Dave’s Hot Chicken nutrition facts so you can enjoy your meal guilt-free — or at least make smarter choices next time you order.
What Makes Dave’s Hot Chicken So Popular
- Juicy chicken tenders marinated in spices
- Signature Dave’s sauce for that creamy kick
- Toasted slider buns and crispy fries
- Custom heat levels — from No Spice to Reaper
It’s not just about the heat — it’s about the flavor balance between crispy, spicy, and juicy that keeps people coming back.
Dave’s Hot Chicken Nutrition Overview
Here’s a quick overview of the average nutritional breakdown for popular menu items (values are approximate and may vary slightly by location).
| Menu Item | Calories (kcal) | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Tender | 490–550 | 37 | 56 | 33 |
| Single Slider | 620–680 | 25–30 | 35 | 20–25 |
| 2 Tenders with Fries | 1,020 | 53 | 110 | 59 |
| 2 Sliders with Fries | 1,540 | 50 | 275 | 78 |
| 1 Tender + 1 Slider | 1,300 | 50 | 275 | 78 |
| Kale Slaw | 100–150 | 1–2 | 8–12 | 8–10 |
| Cheese Fries | 460 | 15–20 | 60 | 30–35 |
| Chocolate Shake (Small) | 450 | 8 | 65 | 18 |
| Vanilla Shake (Regular) | 740 | 9 | 85 | 25 |
| Oreo Top-Loaded Shake | 740–950 | 10–15 | 100–120 | 30–40 |
Smart Tips for Health-Conscious Diners
If you want to enjoy Dave’s Hot Chicken without going overboard on calories:
- Skip the bun — go for tenders without bread.
- Choose kale slaw or a side salad instead of fries.
- Limit sauces — Dave’s sauce is delicious but calorie-dense.
- Pick water or diet soda instead of creamy shakes.
- Go easy on spice — higher spice levels can increase sodium.
Even small swaps can make a big difference in your total calorie count!
Low-Carb & Lighter Choices
If you’re watching your carbs or following a high-protein diet, try these:
- Tenders without bread (about 200–250 calories each)
- Cauliflower bites or kale slaw (under 150 calories)
- Lettuce-wrapped slider (cut carbs by 40–60g)
Final Thoughts
Dave’s Hot Chicken is one of those places where flavor rules — but understanding the nutrition facts helps you make smarter choices. Whether you go all-in with a spicy slider combo or keep it light with bunless tenders, now you know exactly what’s on your plate.
Eat smart, enjoy the heat, and keep that balance between flavor and fuel.
