The question of how many calories are in 4 chicken tenders from McDonald's has a specific, updated answer. In 2025, McDonald's brought back its popular chicken strips, renaming them McCrispy Strips. According to MyNetDiary, a four-piece serving of McCrispy Strips contains 460 calories. This figure is an important detail for anyone tracking their dietary intake, especially given the history of different chicken tender products on the McDonald's menu.
The Current Calorie Count: McCrispy Strips
With the return of chicken strips in May 2025, McDonald's officially added the new McCrispy Strips to its menu nationwide. A four-piece order of these tenders provides a solid breakdown of macronutrients:
- Calories: 460
- Total Fat: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 67g
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 1,470mg
It's important to note that this nutritional information is for the tenders alone, without any dipping sauces, side items, or drinks. Adding condiments and other parts of a meal, such as fries or a soft drink, will significantly increase the total calorie and sodium count.
A Look Back: Buttermilk Crispy Tenders Nutrition
Before the hiatus that began in 2020, McDonald's offered Buttermilk Crispy Tenders. These tenders were a staple for many fans, and their nutritional profile differed from the modern McCrispy Strips. According to data from CalorieKing, a four-piece serving of the older Buttermilk Crispy Tenders contained 480 calories. This comparison shows that while the new tenders are slightly lower in calories, the overall nutritional impact remains substantial. The older tenders were also noted for their high sodium content and a slightly different macronutrient balance.
How Sauce Affects Your Total Calories
McDonald's offers a variety of dipping sauces, and choosing one can add a significant number of calories and sugar to your meal. Here is a simple list of some common sauces and their approximate calorie counts:
- Tangy BBQ Sauce: Approximately 45 calories per packet
- Sweet 'N Sour Sauce: Approximately 50 calories per packet
- Creamy Ranch Sauce: Approximately 110 calories per packet
- Creamy Chili Dip: The new sauce introduced with the McCrispy Strips, its nutritional information varies but typically adds 50-70 calories.
Customizing your meal with sauce
To keep your calorie count lower, consider using half a packet of sauce or opting for a lower-calorie option. Choosing a simple mustard or skipping the sauce entirely can save you over 100 calories on a four-piece meal, especially if you were planning to use a high-calorie sauce like ranch.
Comparative Nutrition: Tenders vs. Nuggets
For those weighing their options at McDonald's, comparing the McCrispy Strips to other chicken menu items is helpful. Let's compare a 4-piece order of McCrispy Strips to a 4-piece order of Chicken McNuggets, a smaller and often lower-calorie choice:
| Item | Serving Size | Calories | Total Fat | Carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| McCrispy Strips | 4 pieces | 460 kcal | 23g | 67g | 40g |
| Chicken McNuggets | 4 pieces | 159 kcal | ~9g | ~10g | ~14g |
As the table shows, a 4-piece serving of McCrispy Strips has significantly more calories, fat, and carbohydrates than a comparable 4-piece McNuggets order. This is primarily due to the larger size of the tenders and the thicker, more substantial breading. When considering your meal, it's clear that the tenders offer a much higher calorie density, which is an important factor for portion control and managing overall intake.
Healthier Fast Food Choices at McDonald's
For those monitoring their calorie intake, McDonald's offers several healthier alternatives to the McCrispy Strips. Options like a side salad with a low-calorie dressing, or even a smaller burger or wrap, can offer similar satisfaction with fewer calories. Additionally, customizing your order by holding the sauce or opting for a diet soda instead of a regular one can make a noticeable difference. The return of the Snack Wrap, expected in 2025, also offers a potentially lower-calorie, handheld alternative that utilizes the McCrispy Strips.
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices
Ultimately, knowing how many calories are in 4 chicken tenders from McDonald's is the first step toward making an informed dietary decision. With the return of the new McCrispy Strips in 2025, the current calorie count is 460 for a four-piece serving. This is a slightly lower number than the previously discontinued Buttermilk Crispy Tenders, but still a significant portion of a person's daily calorie needs. By understanding the nutritional information, comparing it to other menu items like Chicken McNuggets, and considering the impact of sauces, you can more effectively manage your dietary goals while still enjoying a fast food treat. Making mindful food choices, even at a fast-food restaurant, is essential for a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
For more detailed nutritional information, consult the official McDonald's website or a reputable third-party nutrition tracker. Here is an example of an authoritative nutrition information source.
