Planning a visit to Dave’s Hot Chicken means knowing what each heat level costs before you order. Understanding Dave’s Hot Chicken Menu Prices helps you budget for that perfect spice level without surprises.
Dave’s Hot Chicken started as a small pop-up in Los Angeles. Now it’s a nationwide chain known for its Nashville-style hot chicken. The menu is simple but addictive. You choose your heat level, pick a combo, and enjoy.
This guide breaks down every item, combo, and price. You’ll know exactly what to order and how much to pay. No fluff. Just the numbers.
Dave’s Hot Chicken Menu Prices Overview
The menu has four main categories: Sliders, Tenders, Mac & Cheese, and Sides. Prices vary by location, but the ranges below are standard across most US stores.
Here’s the base price list as of 2025:
- Single Slider: $5.49 – $6.49
- 2 Slider Combo: $10.49 – $11.99
- 3 Slider Combo: $13.49 – $15.49
- 2 Tender Combo: $11.49 – $12.99
- 3 Tender Combo: $14.49 – $16.49
- Mac & Cheese (Regular): $4.99 – $5.99
- Mac & Cheese (Large): $7.49 – $8.49
- Fries (Regular): $3.49 – $4.49
- Fries (Large): $5.49 – $6.49
- Kale Slaw: $2.99 – $3.99
- Cheese Sauce: $1.49 – $1.99
- Drinks: $2.49 – $3.49
These prices include tax in some states. Always check your local store for exact numbers.
Heat Levels And How They Affect Your Order
Dave’s Hot Chicken has seven heat levels. Each level changes the spice intensity but not the price. You pay the same for No Spice as you do for Reaper.
Heat Level Breakdown
- No Spice – Zero heat. Plain breaded chicken. Good for kids or sensitive stomachs.
- Lite Mild – A whisper of warmth. Barely noticeable.
- Mild – Gentle tingle. Most people can handle this.
- Medium – Moderate burn. Builds slowly.
- Hot – Serious heat. You’ll sweat a little.
- Extra Hot – Intense. Not for beginners.
- Reaper – Extreme. Carolina Reaper pepper used. Sign a waiver in some locations.
Your heat choice does not change the base price. Only the combo size and add-ons affect the total.
Slider Combos: Best Value For Your Money
Sliders are the most popular item. Each slider comes with a piece of chicken on a soft bun, pickles, and Dave’s special sauce. You can add cheese for an extra charge.
Single Slider
Perfect for a light meal or a snack. Price: $5.49 – $6.49. Comes with one slider and no sides. You can add fries or slaw for $2.00 – $3.00 extra.
2 Slider Combo
Includes two sliders, one side (fries or slaw), and a drink. Price: $10.49 – $11.99. This is the most balanced option for one person.
3 Slider Combo
Three sliders, one side, and a drink. Price: $13.49 – $15.49. Great if you’re hungry or want leftovers.
Slider Combo Add-Ons
- Extra Cheese: $0.50 – $0.75 per slider
- Extra Pickles: Free
- Extra Sauce: $0.25 – $0.50
- Side Upgrade (Large Fries): $1.50 – $2.00
Tender Combos: For The Chicken Purist
Tenders are boneless chicken strips. They come with the same heat options as sliders. No bun, just meat and sides.
2 Tender Combo
Two tenders, one side, and a drink. Price: $11.49 – $12.99. Good for a medium appetite.
3 Tender Combo
Three tenders, one side, and a drink. Price: $14.49 – $16.49. Filling for most people.
Tender Combo Tips
- Order tenders “naked” (no breading) if you want less carbs. Not all locations offer this.
- Mix heat levels across tenders. Ask for one Hot and two Medium.
- Add honey for a sweet-spicy combo. Honey is usually $0.50 extra.
Mac & Cheese: The Ultimate Side
Dave’s Mac & Cheese is creamy and cheesy. It’s available in two sizes. You can add chicken on top for a full meal.
Regular Mac & Cheese
Price: $4.99 – $5.99. Serves one person as a side.
Large Mac & Cheese
Price: $7.49 – $8.49. Big enough to share or eat as a main dish.
Mac & Cheese Add-Ons
- Add Chicken Tender: $3.00 – $4.00
- Add Cheese Sauce: $1.00 – $1.50
- Add Bacon Bits: $1.00 – $1.50 (limited locations)
Fries And Other Sides
Fries are crinkle-cut and seasoned. They come with a side of Dave’s sauce or ketchup.
Regular Fries
Price: $3.49 – $4.49. Standard portion.
Large Fries
Price: $5.49 – $6.49. Bigger portion, good for sharing.
Kale Slaw
Price: $2.99 – $3.99. A lighter option. Crunchy and tangy.
Cheese Sauce
Price: $1.49 – $1.99. Add to fries or sliders.
Drinks And Desserts
Dave’s offers standard fountain drinks and bottled beverages. Dessert options are limited.
Fountain Drinks
Price: $2.49 – $3.49. Coke, Sprite, Lemonade, and more.
Bottled Drinks
Price: $2.99 – $4.49. Includes water, Gatorade, and iced tea.
Desserts
Not all locations have desserts. Some offer cookies or brownies for $2.00 – $3.00. Check your local store.
How To Save Money On Your Order
Dave’s Hot Chicken isn’t cheap, but you can cut costs with these tips.
- Order combos instead of individual items. Combos include a drink and side, saving you $2.00 – $3.00.
- Skip the cheese. Cheese adds $0.50 – $0.75 per slider. It’s good but not essential.
- Share a large combo. The 3 Slider Combo with large fries feeds two people for around $16.00.
- Use the app. Dave’s app often has BOGO deals or $5.00 off coupons.
- Check for student discounts. Some locations near colleges offer 10% off with a student ID.
- Order water instead of soda. Save $2.50 – $3.50 per person.
Dave’s Hot Chicken Menu Prices By Location
Prices vary by state and city. Here are approximate ranges for different regions.
California (Los Angeles, San Francisco)
- Single Slider: $6.49
- 2 Slider Combo: $11.99
- 3 Tender Combo: $16.49
Texas (Houston, Dallas)
- Single Slider: $5.99
- 2 Slider Combo: $10.99
- 3 Tender Combo: $15.49
New York (Manhattan, Brooklyn)
- Single Slider: $6.99
- 2 Slider Combo: $12.49
- 3 Tender Combo: $17.49
Midwest (Chicago, Detroit)
- Single Slider: $5.49
- 2 Slider Combo: $10.49
- 3 Tender Combo: $14.49
These are estimates. Always confirm at your local store.
What People Are Saying About The Prices
Customer reviews on Yelp and Google show mixed opinions. Some say the food is worth the cost. Others think it’s overpriced for fast food.
Common complaints:
- “The sliders are small for the price.”
- “I paid $15 for three tiny tenders.”
- “The combo is the only way to get value.”
Common compliments:
- “The chicken is fresh and juicy.”
- “Heat levels are consistent.”
- “The Mac & Cheese is the best I’ve had.”
Overall, most customers agree that the quality matches the price. You’re paying for fresh, never-frozen chicken and real spices.
Comparing Dave’s Hot Chicken To Competitors
How does Dave’s stack up against other hot chicken chains?
Dave’s Hot Chicken Vs. Hattie B’s
Hattie B’s is pricier. A 3 Tender Combo at Hattie B’s costs around $18.00. Dave’s is $14.49 – $16.49. Hattie B’s has more sides, but Dave’s is simpler and cheaper.
Dave’s Hot Chicken Vs. Howlin’ Ray’s
Howlin’ Ray’s is famous but expensive. A 3 Tender Combo can hit $20.00. Dave’s is more affordable and has more locations.
Dave’s Hot Chicken Vs. KFC
KFC is cheaper. A 3 Tender Combo at KFC is around $8.00. But the quality and spice are not comparable. Dave’s uses higher-quality chicken and real heat.
Dave’s Hot Chicken Vs. Popeyes
Popeyes is also cheaper. A 3 Tender Combo is about $9.00. But Popeyes doesn’t offer the same heat variety. Dave’s wins on spice options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dave’s Hot Chicken Menu Prices
Does Dave’s Hot Chicken Have A Secret Menu?
No official secret menu. Some locations allow you to mix heat levels or add extra toppings. Ask your cashier.
Can I Order Just The Chicken Without Breading?
Some locations offer “naked” tenders. Not all stores do this. Call ahead to check.
Are There Any Vegan Or Vegetarian Options?
Very limited. The Kale Slaw and fries are vegan. No plant-based chicken substitutes.
Does Dave’s Hot Chicken Offer Catering?
Yes, most locations have catering trays. Prices start at $50.00 for a party platter serving 10 people. Contact your local store for details.
What Is The Cheapest Item On The Menu?
The cheapest item is the Kale Slaw at $2.99 – $3.99. The cheapest combo is the Single Slider at $5.49 – $6.49.
Final Tips For Ordering
Here’s a quick checklist before you go.
- Decide your heat level before ordering. Don’t change your mind at the counter.
- Order combos for the best value.
- Bring cash if you want to avoid card fees. Some locations charge $0.50 for card payments.
- Check the app for coupons before you leave home.
- If you’re new, start with Mild or Medium. Hot is no joke.
Dave’s Hot Chicken Menu Prices are straightforward once you know the structure. Sliders and tenders form the core. Sides and drinks add a few dollars. Combos save you money.
Now you have all the numbers. Go order with confidence. Your wallet and your taste buds will thank you.
Remember, prices can change. This guide reflects current averages. Always verify at your local Dave’s Hot Chicken before ordering.