If you’re looking for the full dave’s hot chicken menu with prices, you’ve come to the right place. This guide breaks down every item, spice level, and cost so you can order with confidence.
Dave’s Hot Chicken started as a pop-up in Los Angeles and quickly became a nationwide sensation. Their menu is simple but focused: tenders, sliders, fries, and shakes, all built around a unique heat scale that goes from “No Spice” to “Reaper.”
In this article, we’ll walk through the complete menu, explain the spice levels, and give you the exact prices for each item. We’ll also cover combo deals, sides, and tips for customizing your order.
Dave’s Hot Chicken Menu With Prices
The core menu at Dave’s Hot Chicken is built around chicken tenders and sliders. You can order them in a variety of spice levels, from mild to extremely hot. Prices vary slightly by location, but the numbers below are based on the national average as of 2025.
Chicken Tenders
Dave’s Hot Chicken tenders are hand-breaded and fried to order. You can get them in a 2-piece, 3-piece, or 4-piece box. Each order comes with a slice of bread, pickles, and a side of Dave’s sauce.
- 2-Piece Tenders – $8.99
- 3-Piece Tenders – $11.49
- 4-Piece Tenders – $13.99
Each tender is about 4-5 ounces, so a 2-piece is a good snack, while a 4-piece is a full meal. You can also add extra tenders to any order for $2.50 each.
Sliders
Sliders are the other main option. They come in a 1-slider or 2-slider combo. Each slider has a tender on a soft bun with pickles, Dave’s sauce, and coleslaw. You can also get a “Slider Box” which includes two sliders plus fries and a drink.
- 1 Slider – $6.49
- 2 Sliders – $9.99
- Slider Box (2 sliders, fries, drink) – $13.49
The sliders are smaller than a regular sandwich, but two sliders are filling. The bun is toasted and holds up well to the sauce.
Combo Meals
If you want a complete meal, the combos are the best value. Each combo includes your choice of tenders or sliders, plus fries and a drink.
- 2-Piece Tender Combo – $12.49
- 3-Piece Tender Combo – $14.99
- 4-Piece Tender Combo – $17.49
- 1 Slider Combo – $9.99
- 2 Slider Combo – $13.49
Drink options include Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, and lemonade. You can also upgrade to a large drink for $0.50 extra.
Sides
Dave’s Hot Chicken has a few sides to round out your meal. The most popular is the fries, which come seasoned with their signature spice blend.
- Regular Fries – $3.99
- Large Fries – $4.99
- Kale Slaw – $2.99
- Mac & Cheese – $4.49
- Pickles (side order) – $1.49
The kale slaw is a lighter option, while the mac and cheese is creamy and rich. The fries are crispy and come with a side of Dave’s sauce if you ask.
Shakes & Desserts
Dave’s Hot Chicken also offers hand-spun shakes. They come in vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. There’s also a seasonal flavor that changes.
- Regular Shake – $4.99
- Large Shake – $5.99
- Cookies (2-pack) – $2.49
The shakes are thick and made with real ice cream. They’re a good way to cool down if you ordered a spicy meal.
Spice Level Guide
One of the most important parts of the dave’s hot chicken menu with prices is understanding the spice scale. Dave’s uses a 7-level system, from “No Spice” to “Reaper.” Each level adds more heat, but the flavor stays the same.
Spice Levels Explained
- No Spice – Zero heat. Just the breading and seasoning. Good for kids or sensitive palates.
- Lite Mild – A tiny kick. Very mild, almost no heat.
- Mild – Slight warmth. Most people can handle this.
- Medium – Noticeable heat. Starts to build but still manageable.
- Hot – Spicy. You’ll feel it, but it’s not overwhelming.
- Extra Hot – Very spicy. Only for heat seekers.
- Reaper – Extreme. Made with Carolina Reaper pepper. Sign a waiver.
If you’re new to Dave’s, start with Mild or Medium. You can always add more heat later, but you can’t take it away. The Reaper level is no joke – it’s genuinely painful for most people.
How To Choose Your Spice Level
Here’s a simple guide based on your tolerance:
- If you don’t like spice: No Spice or Lite Mild
- If you like mild heat: Mild or Medium
- If you enjoy spicy food: Hot
- If you’re a chilihead: Extra Hot
- If you want to test your limits: Reaper
Remember that the spice is in the breading, not the sauce. So even if you get No Spice, you can still add Dave’s sauce for flavor.
Customizing Your Order
Dave’s Hot Chicken allows some customization. You can mix spice levels across different tenders or sliders. For example, you could get two tenders at Medium and one at Hot. Just ask when you order.
You can also request extra pickles, extra sauce, or no bread. Some locations offer gluten-free options, but it’s best to check ahead.
Add-Ons And Upgrades
- Extra Dave’s Sauce – $0.50
- Extra Pickles – $0.25
- Extra Bread – $0.50
- Cheese on Slider – $0.75
- Bacon on Slider – $1.50
These add-ons are cheap but can make your meal more satisfying. The cheese and bacon are especially good on sliders.
Nutritional Information
If you’re watching your calories, here’s a rough breakdown. These numbers are for a single tender or slider without sides.
- 1 Tender (No Spice) – 210 calories, 12g fat, 15g protein
- 1 Slider (Medium) – 380 calories, 18g fat, 22g protein
- Regular Fries – 420 calories, 20g fat
- Kale Slaw – 120 calories, 8g fat
The tenders are relatively lean, but the sliders and fries add up quickly. If you’re on a diet, consider getting a 2-piece tender with no fries.
Comparing Dave’s Hot Chicken To Other Chains
Dave’s Hot Chicken is often compared to Raising Cane’s, Zaxby’s, and Popeyes. Here’s how the dave’s hot chicken menu with prices stacks up.
Dave’s Vs. Raising Cane’s
Raising Cane’s has a simpler menu – just tenders, fries, coleslaw, and toast. Their prices are similar, but Cane’s doesn’t offer spice levels. Dave’s wins for heat variety.
- Dave’s 3-Piece Combo – $14.99
- Cane’s 3-Piece Combo – $13.49
Cane’s is slightly cheaper, but Dave’s has more flavor options.
Dave’s Vs. Zaxby’s
Zaxby’s has a bigger menu with sandwiches, salads, and wings. Their prices are a bit lower, but the quality is different. Dave’s uses fresher ingredients and bigger tenders.
- Dave’s 4-Piece Combo – $17.49
- Zaxby’s 4-Piece Combo – $15.99
Zaxby’s is cheaper, but Dave’s is spicier and more premium.
Dave’s Vs. Popeyes
Popeyes is known for its fried chicken sandwiches. Their tenders are smaller and less consistent. Dave’s tenders are thicker and more tender.
- Dave’s 2-Piece Combo – $12.49
- Popeyes 2-Piece Combo – $10.99
Popeyes is cheaper, but Dave’s is better for heat lovers.
Tips For Ordering
Here are some practical tips to get the most out of your visit.
- Go during off-peak hours – Dave’s can get busy at lunch and dinner. Try 2 PM or 8 PM for shorter lines.
- Order online – You can skip the line by ordering through the app or website.
- Ask for extra sauce – The Dave’s sauce is free with your meal, but you can ask for extra.
- Share a combo – The 4-piece combo is big enough for two people if you add a side.
- Try the Reaper if you dare – But have milk ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest item on the dave’s hot chicken menu with prices?
The cheapest item is the 1 Slider at $6.49. If you want a full meal, the 1 Slider Combo at $9.99 is a good deal.
Can I get a refund if the food is too spicy?
No, Dave’s does not offer refunds based on spice level. They have a clear warning about the Reaper level. Start with a lower spice if you’re unsure.
Does Dave’s Hot Chicken have a kids menu?
Not officially, but you can order a 2-piece tender with No Spice for a child. It’s a good portion size for kids.
Are there any vegetarian options on the dave’s hot chicken menu with prices?
Very limited. The kale slaw and fries are vegetarian, but the main items are all chicken. No plant-based protein options.
How often do prices change?
Prices can vary by location and may change with inflation. Check your local store for the most accurate pricing.
Final Thoughts On The Menu
The dave’s hot chicken menu with prices is straightforward but satisfying. You get high-quality chicken tenders, a range of heat levels, and reasonable prices for the quality. The combos are the best value, especially if you want fries and a drink.
If you’re a spice lover, Dave’s is one of the best fast-casual options out there. The Reaper level is a genuine challenge, and the Medium is perfect for everyday eating. Just remember to start low and work your way up.
One thing to note is that the portion sizes are generous. A 3-piece tender combo is enough for most adults. If you’re sharing, the 4-piece combo with an extra side works well.
Overall, Dave’s Hot Chicken offers a focused menu that does one thing really well. The prices are fair, the spice levels are clear, and the food is consistently good. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, this guide should help you order with confidence.
Now you know everything about the dave’s hot chicken menu with prices. Go ahead and try it – just be ready for the heat.