The Evolution of McDonald's Chicken Tenders
For years, the question of how many calories are in the chicken tenders at McDonald's has a changing answer due to the brand’s evolving menu. The classic, most-remembered version for many was the Buttermilk Crispy Tenders, which were available for a limited time in the United States before being discontinued in 2020. In 2025, McDonald's introduced a new version called McCrispy Strips to its menu. This section will detail the different products and their caloric profiles to provide clarity for those searching for the historical data of the beloved item.
The original "Chicken Selects" were discontinued around 2013, with the Buttermilk Crispy Tenders arriving in 2017. The latter became a fan favorite but were ultimately removed from menus in 2020 as part of operational changes during the pandemic. However, demand remained high, prompting the brand to bring back a similar item in 2025. This shows how consumer nostalgia and market trends play a significant role in menu development.
Nutrition Breakdown of the Discontinued US Buttermilk Crispy Tenders
When considering the most recent US chicken tender product before the 2025 change, the calorie count was a key nutritional metric. According to calorie tracking services that documented the product, a 4-piece order of the Buttermilk Crispy Tenders contained 480 calories. This value does not include any dipping sauces, which would add additional calories. For context, here is a general nutritional overview for that discontinued US product:
- Calories: 480
- Total Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Sodium: 1390 mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 23 g
- Protein: 39 g
This information is valuable for those reminiscing or performing historical dietary comparisons. It is important to note that these figures are no longer relevant to the products currently offered by McDonald's in the United States.
What about the new McCrispy Strips and international markets?
The introduction of McCrispy Strips in 2025 marks a new chapter for McDonald's chicken offerings. The company announced the new product, describing it as made with all-white meat and a new black pepper flavor. For the most accurate and up-to-date nutritional information on the McCrispy Strips, customers should check the official McDonald's website or app. Restaurant menus and nutritional facts can vary significantly by location and are subject to change.
The number of calories in the chicken tenders at McDonald's also varies dramatically depending on the country. For example, a 4-piece serving in some countries has been reported to have a different calorie count entirely. This highlights the importance of checking local nutritional information rather than relying on historical US data.
Comparison Table: Tenders vs. McNuggets (US)
To provide a better perspective, here is a comparison of the discontinued 4-piece Buttermilk Crispy Tenders and a standard 6-piece order of Chicken McNuggets available in the US.
| Nutritional Value | Discontinued 4-piece Buttermilk Crispy Tenders | 6-piece Chicken McNuggets |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 480 | 250 |
| Protein (g) | 39 | 16 |
| Fat (g) | 26 | 15 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 23 | 15 |
| Sodium (mg) | 1390 | 500 |
The data clearly shows that a serving of the former tenders had a higher caloric and protein content than a typical 6-piece McNugget order, though portion sizes differ. The high sodium content in the tenders was also notable.
Tips for Making Healthier McDonald's Choices
If you are calorie-conscious, knowing the numbers for fast food items can help you make more informed decisions. Here are some tips:
- Opt for smaller portions: Choosing a smaller size can significantly reduce your calorie, fat, and sodium intake. For example, the 4-piece tender meal was a smaller option than the larger 6-piece alternative. For current options, compare the different McNugget or sandwich sizes.
- Mind your sauces: Dipping sauces can add a surprising number of calories. A single packet of some sauces can contain anywhere from 50 to over 100 calories. Choosing sauces like Spicy Buffalo or opting for no sauce at all can help.
- Consider healthier sides: Instead of fries, consider healthier side options like a salad (with light dressing) if available, or just skip the side altogether.
- Customize your order: For items like burgers, you can request to remove cheese or high-calorie sauces to save on calories.
- Check the official app: For the most current and accurate information on McCrispy Strips or any other menu item, always refer to the official McDonald's nutritional information, which is available on their website and mobile app.
Conclusion: The Final Word on How Many Calories are in the Chicken Tenders at McDonald's
The simple question of "how many calories are in the chicken tenders at McDonald's" has a nuanced answer due to product changes over time. The popular Buttermilk Crispy Tenders, discontinued in 2020, contained 480 calories for a 4-piece serving. This item was replaced by the McCrispy Strips in 2025, and customers should always verify nutritional information for current products on the official McDonald's website. By understanding these product changes and how they impact nutritional value, consumers can make more informed decisions about their fast-food choices. Ultimately, the tenders of yesterday are not the same as the strips of today, and their caloric content reflects that.
Read more about the return of McCrispy Strips on the CNN website.
