Chili’s Chicken Tenders Menu, CaloriesRecipe & Nutrition Guide (2026)

chili's chicken tenders

If you’re searching for chili’s chicken tenders, this guide covers everything you need to know — including menu options, prices, calories, nutrition details, and even a copycat recipe. One of the most ordered items at Chili’s Grill & Bar, chicken tenders are known for their crispy coating, juicy chicken, and flavorful dipping sauces.

Many guests visit Chili’s specifically for their famous Chicken Crispers®, which are essentially the restaurant’s signature chicken tenders. These tenders are served with fries, sauces, and sometimes part of combo meals.

Below you’ll find updated menu details, chili’s chicken tenders calories, nutrition information, and cooking instructions for 2026.

Chili’s Chicken Tenders Menu Overview

The chili’s chicken tenders menu usually features crispy fried chicken strips served with dipping sauces and sides. These tenders are available as appetizers, entrées, and kids meal options.

They are prepared with seasoned chicken breast, coated in batter or breading, and deep-fried until golden.

Typical components include:

Many guests order them because they offer a crispy texture with juicy chicken inside.

Chili’s Chicken Tenders Menu Table

Below is a typical menu overview for Chili’s chicken and related dishes.

Menu ItemDescriptionEstimated Price
Chicken CrispersClassic crispy chicken tenders with fries$13 – $16
Honey Chipotle Chicken CrispersTenders tossed in sweet-spicy sauce$14 – $17
Nashville Hot Chicken TendersSpicy Nashville-style tenders$14 – $18
Pepper Pals Chicken TendersKids meal portion$6 – $8

Prices may vary depending on the restaurant location and seasonal promotions.

Chili’s Chicken Tenders Recipe (Copycat Version)

If you want to recreate chili’s chicken tenders recipe at home, you can follow this simple cooking method inspired by the restaurant’s flavor profile.

Ingredients

  • Chicken tenderloins – 500g
  • All-purpose flour – 1 cup
  • Buttermilk – 1 cup
  • Egg – 1
  • Breadcrumbs or panko – 1 cup
  • Paprika – 1 teaspoon
  • Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon
  • Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
  • Salt – ½ teaspoon
  • Vegetable oil – for frying

Optional dipping sauces:

Cooking Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken
    Season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper.
  2. Create the Breading Station
    Prepare three bowls: flour in the first, beaten egg mixed with buttermilk in the second, and breadcrumbs mixed with spices in the third.
  3. Coat the Chicken
    Dip the chicken into flour, then the egg mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
  4. Fry the Chicken
    Heat oil in a pan to medium-high temperature and fry the chicken for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
  5. Serve
    Serve with fries and dipping sauces.

This method produces crispy tenders similar to the ones served at Chili’s.

Chili’s Chicken Tenders Calories

Many diners want to know chili’s chicken tenders calories before ordering.

The calorie count depends on portion size, breading, and sauces.

Estimated Calories

ItemCalories
Chicken Tenders (3 pieces)450 – 500 kcal
Chicken Tenders (6 pieces)700 – 800 kcal
French Fries Side300 – 400 kcal
Dipping Sauce100 – 200 kcal

A full chicken tenders meal can reach 900–1100 calories, depending on sides and sauces.

Chili’s Chicken Tenders Nutrition Overview

Understanding chili’s chicken tenders nutrition helps diners make balanced choices.

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

NutrientAmount
Calories700 – 900 kcal
Protein35 – 45 g
Carbohydrates50 – 70 g
Fat35 – 45 g
Sodium1200 – 1600 mg

Chicken tenders provide good protein but can be higher in fat because of frying.

Popular Chili’s Chicken Tenders Variations

Several popular variations of chili’s chicken tenders appear on the Chili’s menu.

Chicken Crispers

Chicken Crispers

The classic version with crispy breading and dipping sauce.

Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers

Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers

Tenders coated in sweet and smoky honey chipotle glaze.

Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

Spicy chicken tenders inspired by Nashville hot chicken flavor.

These variations are popular because they offer different spice levels and sauce flavors.

Customization & Options

One of the advantages of ordering chili’s chicken tenders is the ability to customize sauces and sides.

Dipping Sauce Options

Side Dish Options

Customers may choose from several sides:

Customization allows guests to create a meal that fits their preferences.

Pricing & Availability Disclaimer

Menu prices and availability for chili’s chicken tenders may vary depending on the restaurant location. Certain menu items, such as seasonal sauces or limited-time flavors, may only be available in select locations.

Always check your local Chili’s restaurant menu for the most accurate pricing and availability.

FAQs About Chili’s Chicken Tenders

How many calories are in Chili’s chicken tenders?

A typical serving contains around 700 to 900 calories, depending on portion size and sides.

Are Chili’s chicken tenders fried?

Yes. Most chicken tenders are breaded and deep-fried until crispy.

What sauces come with Chili’s chicken tenders?

Common sauces include ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, and honey chipotle.

Can you get grilled chicken instead of fried tenders?

Some locations allow grilled chicken substitutions for lighter options.

Are Chili’s chicken tenders part of kids meals?

Yes. Chicken tenders are often available on the Pepper Pals kids menu.

Conclusion

Chili’s chicken tenders remain one of the most popular items on the Chili’s menu thanks to their crispy coating, juicy chicken, and flavorful dipping sauces. With options like Chicken Crispers, Honey Chipotle tenders, and Nashville hot tenders, guests can enjoy different flavors depending on their preference.

By reviewing the menu options, calories, and nutrition information, diners can choose the version that best fits their taste and dietary needs. Whether ordered as an entrée, appetizer, or kids meal, Chili’s chicken tenders continue to be a favorite comfort food choice.