Complete Nutritional Breakdown of the DQ 4 Piece BBQ Chicken Strip Basket
When you order the 4 piece barbecue chicken strip basket from Dairy Queen, you're getting more than just chicken. This meal includes four crispy chicken strips, fries, Texas toast, and is coated in a savory Honey BBQ sauce. The total calorie count for this specific basket is 1140 calories. A breakdown of these calories reveals the macronutrient composition of the meal.
Macronutrient Profile of Your DQ Basket
- Total Fat: The meal contains 48g of total fat, which makes up about 38% of the meal's caloric content. Saturated fat contributes 8g, while trans fat is listed at 0g.
- Carbohydrates: A significant portion of the calories comes from carbohydrates, with a total of 142g. This includes a hefty 32g of sugar, largely from the Honey BBQ sauce. The meal also provides 7g of dietary fiber.
- Protein: For a chicken entree, it offers a moderate protein punch, with 35g. This helps contribute to the feeling of fullness and supports muscle maintenance.
Sodium Content and Daily Value
Perhaps one of the most surprising facts about this meal is its high sodium level. The 4 piece Honey BBQ chicken strip basket contains 2640mg of sodium, which is more than the total daily recommended intake for many people. The high sodium content is often found in pre-prepared and processed foods like fast-food sauces and breading. It is an important factor to consider for anyone monitoring their sodium intake, especially those with conditions like high blood pressure.
Factors Influencing Calorie Count
It is important to note that menu items can vary slightly depending on the franchise and location. A standard 4-piece chicken strip basket (without the Honey BBQ glaze) has a different nutritional profile, weighing in at 1020 calories. The additional 120 calories in the BBQ version are attributed to the sugary sauce. Also, different regional menus may have variations. For instance, some Texas Dairy Queen locations list their 4-piece chicken strip country basket at 1000 calories. The source of this information, whether the corporate website or a third-party nutritional tracker, can also cause minor discrepancies. Always check the official Dairy Queen nutrition information page for the most accurate data for your region.
Calorie Comparison: DQ BBQ Chicken Strip Basket vs. Other Fast-Food Options
To put the DQ 4 piece barbecue chicken strip basket's calorie count into perspective, let's compare it to similar meals from other popular fast-food chains. While exact meal components may vary, this table shows how the DQ basket stacks up against comparable offerings.
| Item | Restaurant | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 pc BBQ Chicken Strip Basket | Dairy Queen | 1140 | 48 | 2640 |
| Chicken Tender Combo (4 pc) | Zaxby's | ~1370 | ~71 | ~3390 |
| Homestyle Chicken Strips (4 pc) | Sonic | ~670 | ~35 | ~2000 |
| Chicken Finger Plate (4 pc) | Raising Cane's | ~1250 | ~69 | ~2450 |
Note: Calorie counts for comparable items are approximate and can vary by location and specific order modifications. They are included for general comparison.
As the table shows, the Dairy Queen Honey BBQ chicken strip basket is on the higher end of the calorie spectrum for a 4-piece chicken meal compared to some competitors, though slightly lower than Zaxby's and Raising Cane's full basket offerings. Sonic's option appears significantly lower, though it typically excludes Texas toast and its fries are smaller.
Conclusion
A 4 piece barbecue chicken strip basket from DQ is a high-calorie, high-sodium meal, containing 1140 calories and 2640mg of sodium. While it provides a decent amount of protein, it is also very high in carbohydrates and fat. Those looking to manage their dietary intake should be mindful of its substantial nutritional impact. For a lower-calorie alternative at DQ, a standard (non-BBQ) chicken strip basket is an option, as it has 1020 calories. For healthier choices overall, options like grilled chicken salads or plain chicken strips without sauce are a better alternative.
Making Informed Choices
If you still want to indulge in this DQ meal, there are ways to slightly reduce the calorie load. You could skip the Texas toast, request the sauce on the side to control the amount you use, or share the meal with a friend. For a complete look at the nutritional information for all Dairy Queen products, consult the official website.
