Dave’s Hot Chicken Spice Levels
Dave’s Hot Chicken offers seven different spice levels, starting from No Spice and progressing all the way to Reaper. Customizable heat is one of the main features of the menu, so you can dial your order in exactly how you like it.
Explore the Spice Levels
Dave’s Hot Chicken Spice Levels
No Spice
Good for kids and those who prefer to avoid the heat entirely. A kid-friendly, mild-list option.
Lite Mild
A good option for those who want to avoid heavy heat but still enjoy a light touch of warmth.
Mild
For those who want a little bit of heat but want to avoid an intense level. Still comfortable for most people.
Medium
A popular choice for people who love spicy food and want a bit more heat than Mild.
Hot
A great option for those who want to add real heat to their food.
Extra Hot
A good choice for experienced heat-seekers.
Reaper
A big challenge for spice lovers. It contains Carolina Reaper powder, so a waiver must be signed before ordering.
How Spicy Is the Reaper?
The Reaper level is very hot, averaging about 1.6 to 1.64 million Scoville Heat Units.
Do You Have to Be a Certain Age to Order Reaper?
No, there is no age requirement to order the Reaper.
Which Dave’s Hot Chicken Spice Level Should You Choose?
First-Time Visitor? Start With Medium
For a first order, try Combo #3 at Medium spice. If it feels too mild, increase the heat next time.
Can You Choose Different Spice Levels in One Order?
Yes, you can order different spice levels within the same multi-tender or family-style order at Dave’s Hot Chicken — a useful option for groups and families.
Is No Spice Good for Kids?
Yes, No Spice is a good choice for kids because it has zero heat.
Does the Spice Level Change Calories?
Yes, the spice level changes the calorie count by a small amount due to the wet oil and spice rub used at higher heat levels.
What Should You Drink to Cool Down the Spice?
A milkshake, available in chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry, is a good way to cool down.
Which Chicken Items Use the Spice Levels?
Chicken Tenders
Jumbo chicken tenders can be ordered anywhere from No Spice to Reaper, letting you fully control the heat.
Chicken Sliders
Chicken sliders also range across the full spice scale, from No Spice all the way up to Reaper.
Choose Your Heat Before You Order
The main choice is not only what you order but also how spicy you want it, from No Spice to Reaper.
View Full Menu →Ready to Choose Your Spice Level?
Choose your preferred heat level from No Spice through Reaper, then explore the menu to find your chicken, sides and other options.