How to Order "Naked" Chicken Tenders
Ordering unbreaded chicken from Raising Cane's is a simple process, although the option is not displayed on the standard menu. To get your chicken tenders without the breading, simply ask for them "naked" or "unbreaded". The staff is generally familiar with this request, especially in locations with a high volume of health-conscious or keto-following customers. The restaurant's core concept is streamlined to focus on their signature fried tenders, so don't expect a completely different cooking process. The unbreaded chicken is still prepared by frying it fresh to order in the restaurant's fryers, ensuring it remains hot and juicy, just without the flour coating.
The Nutritional Difference: Naked vs. Regular Tenders
The most significant advantage of ordering unbreaded chicken is the substantial reduction in calories and carbohydrates. A regular breaded chicken tender contains approximately 130 calories, with much of that coming from the breading and the frying process. In contrast, a naked chicken tender contains only about 70 calories. This simple customization can dramatically change the macronutrient profile of your meal, making it a viable option for those tracking calories, carbs, or following a ketogenic diet. When combining with side options, this calorie saving is a game-changer for those seeking a lighter fast-food choice.
Customizing Your Low-Carb Meal
Beyond the chicken itself, you can make further adjustments to create a more diet-friendly combo. Here are some tips for building a lower-carb meal at Raising Cane's:
- Prioritize the Chicken: Focus your meal around the naked chicken tenders, as they are the lowest-carb item available.
- Modify Side Items: Swap the high-carb fries for a double serving of coleslaw, noting that it contains a small number of carbs from the dressing.
- Choose Sauces Wisely: While Cane's sauce is delicious, a single serving adds 190 calories and 8g of carbohydrates. Consider a zero-calorie alternative like hot sauce, which is often available upon request.
- Skip the Toast: The Texas Toast is a high-carb component of the meal and should be avoided entirely for a true low-carb approach.
- Opt for Diet Drinks: Pair your meal with a diet or sugar-free drink to keep your overall calorie count down.
Comparing Naked Tenders to Regular Tenders
| Feature | Naked Tenders | Regular Tenders |
|---|---|---|
| Breading | No | Yes |
| Cooking Method | Deep-fried | Deep-fried |
| Calories (per tender) | ~70 | ~130 |
| Carbs | Very low | Higher (from breading) |
| Flavor Profile | Marinade and pepper | Crispy, seasoned coating |
| Allergy Risk (Gluten) | High cross-contamination risk | High risk |
Important Considerations for Allergies
It is critical for anyone with a gluten or wheat allergy to understand the kitchen preparation process. The unbreaded chicken, or "naked" tenders, are cooked in the exact same fryers as the regular, breaded chicken. This means there is a very high risk of cross-contamination with flour and gluten. If you have a severe allergy, it is not recommended to consume the naked tenders from Raising Cane's. For general nutritional purposes, it is a great low-carb option, but it is not safe for those who must strictly avoid gluten.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Canes Without Breading
In summary, you absolutely can get canes chicken without breading by simply asking for it "naked." This option provides a fantastic way to enjoy the flavor of the marinated chicken breast tenders with a fraction of the calories and carbs. It's a popular choice among those on keto or other low-carb diets, allowing for a satisfying fast-food experience. However, customers with gluten or wheat allergies must exercise extreme caution. Because the naked tenders are deep-fried in shared oil with the regular breaded chicken, the risk of cross-contamination is high and cannot be guaranteed to be allergen-free. For everyone else, it's a simple and effective custom order that delivers a lighter take on a fan-favorite meal. For additional menu details, consult the Raising Cane's website.
For more information on the ingredients and potential allergens at Raising Cane's, please refer to their official website, which offers important details about their menu and preparation methods.
