Are you craving that spicy kick of buffalo sauce but worried about your calorie intake? I’ve been there! As someone who enjoys the occasional fast food treat while trying to stay mindful of nutrition, I wanted to dig deep into one of Arby’s popular mini sandwiches – the Buffalo Chicken Slider.
Let’s cut to the chase – the Arby’s Buffalo Chicken Slider contains 290 calories per serving. But there’s so much more to understand about this tangy, portable treat beyond just the calorie count.
What Exactly Is the Arby’s Buffalo Chicken Slider?
Before we dive deeper into the nutritional breakdown, let’s get familiar with what we’re actually eating The Buffalo Chicken Slider from Arby’s is a mini sandwich featuring crispy chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, typically served on a soft slider bun
It’s one of several slider options on Arby’s menu, designed as a smaller portion alternative to their full-sized sandwiches. Perfect for a snack, light meal, or when you want to try multiple menu items without going overboard.
Complete Nutritional Breakdown
The Buffalo Chicken Slider isn’t just about calories Here’s the full nutritional profile per slider (106g serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 |
| Total Fat | 13g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 860mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 31g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Net Carbs | 29g |
| Protein | 12g |
This small sandwich packs a decent amount of protein (12g) which can help with satiety, but it’s also significant in sodium content at 860mg, which is something to be mindful of if you’re watching your salt intake.
How Does This Fit Into Your Daily Diet?
Let’s put these numbers into perspective. Based on a 2,000 calorie daily diet (which Arby’s mentions is used for general nutrition advice), this slider represents:
- About 14.5% of your daily calorie intake
- Approximately 20% of a standard 1,500mg sodium recommendation
- Around 10% of your daily carbohydrate needs (based on 300g daily)
If you’re following a specific eating plan, here’s how the Buffalo Chicken Slider might fit in:
For Keto Dieters
With 29g net carbs, this slider would take up most or all of your daily carb allowance on a strict keto diet, which typically limits carbs to 20-50g per day. As noted on Carb Manager, this would be a challenging item to fit into a ketogenic eating plan.
For Calorie-Counters
At 290 calories, this can be a reasonable option if you’re tracking calories but need a quick meal. It’s lower in calories than many fast food sandwiches, though pairing it with sides and drinks will quickly increase your total.
For Balanced Eaters
The 12g of protein makes this a decent protein source, though the sodium content is something to be aware of. You might want to balance your day with lower-sodium choices if you opt for this slider.
How Does It Compare to Other Arby’s Options?
I think it’s always helpful to see how different menu items stack up against each other. While Arby’s doesn’t list the caloric info directly on their main website for the Buffalo Chicken Slider, we can compare it to similar items:
- The Buffalo Chicken Slider (290 calories) is generally lower in calories than most of Arby’s full-sized sandwiches
- Compared to other slider options, it falls in the mid-range for caloric content
- It’s a more calorie-conscious choice than many of their roast beef options
Making It Healthier
If you’re watching your calories but still want to enjoy this spicy treat, here are some tips:
- Skip additional sauces or condiments, as these can add calories quickly
- Consider removing part of the bun to lower the carb count
- Pair it with a side salad instead of fries to keep the overall meal lighter
- Drink water instead of a sugary beverage to avoid adding empty calories
When Might This Fit Your Nutritional Goals?
The Buffalo Chicken Slider could be appropriate in these scenarios:
- As a protein-containing snack between meals (though watch the sodium)
- For a lighter fast food option when you’re on the go
- When you’re craving buffalo flavor but don’t want to commit to a larger meal
- As part of a shared meal where you’re trying multiple items
Frequently Asked Questions About Arby’s Buffalo Chicken Slider
Is the Buffalo Chicken Slider available at all Arby’s locations?
According to Arby’s website, availability may vary by location. They recommend selecting a specific Arby’s location to check availability and pricing.
Can I order the Buffalo Chicken Slider for delivery?
Yes, the Arby’s website indicates this item is available for delivery or pickup, though you’ll need to check with your local restaurant.
How spicy is the Buffalo Chicken Slider?
While heat levels are subjective, the buffalo sauce on this slider provides a moderate kick that most spice enthusiasts would consider mild to medium.
Are there allergens I should be aware of?
The slider contains common allergens like wheat (in the bun) and potentially dairy and egg in the sauce and chicken preparation. Arby’s mentions that additional nutrition and allergen information is available upon request.
My Personal Take on the Buffalo Chicken Slider
I’ve tried the Buffalo Chicken Slider a few times when I’m craving something with a spicy kick but don’t want to go overboard on calories. The 290 calorie count makes it a reasonable option when I’m being more careful with my eating.
The thing I notice most is the sodium content – it definitely makes me thirsty afterward! The balance of the tangy buffalo sauce with the crispy chicken is pretty satisfying though, especially for the smaller portion size.
If I’m really hungry, one slider isn’t enough, which is where the calorie advantage can disappear if you end up ordering multiple. But as an occasional treat or part of a balanced day, it can definitely hit the spot without completely derailing your nutrition goals.
The Bottom Line on Arby’s Buffalo Chicken Slider Calories
At 290 calories, the Arby’s Buffalo Chicken Slider offers a way to enjoy the buffalo chicken flavor experience in a more portion-controlled format than many fast food options.
The key points to remember:
- 290 calories per slider
- 13g fat (2g saturated)
- 31g total carbs (29g net carbs)
- 12g protein
- 860mg sodium
While not a health food by any means, it can be incorporated into many eating plans with proper planning and moderation. The higher sodium content is probably the biggest nutritional concern for most people.
As with any fast food choice, it’s about balance and making informed decisions. Now you have the info you need to decide if this spicy little sandwich deserves a place in your meal rotation!
Remember, enjoying your favorite foods occasionally while staying mindful of nutrition is what sustainable eating is all about. No need to buffalo your way through restrictive diets when you can make informed choices instead!
Have you tried the Buffalo Chicken Slider? What did you think of it? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!