Kale Slaw
A cool, tangy, slightly creamy slaw made with crisp kale and cabbage. The fresh, crunchy contrast to Dave's Nashville heat — and the single best spice-relief side on the menu.
About the Kale Slaw
Dave's Kale Slaw is the fresh counterpoint to a menu built on heat — crisp shredded kale and cabbage tossed in a cool, tangy, lightly creamy dressing. It's the same slaw layered inside the sliders, now served as a side so you can use it strategically: a forkful between hot bites cleanses the palate and slows the spice from building too fast.
More than just a healthy-feeling side, Kale Slaw is functional. Its cool, moisture-rich crunch and tangy acidity actively lower perceived heat, making it the go-to relief side for anyone ordering Hot or above. The combination of kale and cabbage adds a hearty texture that holds up better than a typical mayo-heavy slaw, and at around 270 calories it's a fresh, vegetarian way to round out any order.
What's Inside the Kale Slaw
Shredded Kale
Crisp, hearty kale that holds its texture in the dressing — the backbone of the slaw and a fresh, slightly peppery contrast to the Nashville spice rub.
Cabbage
Shredded cabbage adds extra crunch and a mild, sweet freshness that balances the kale and soaks up the tangy dressing.
Creamy Tangy Dressing
A cool, lightly creamy dressing with a tangy bite that ties the slaw together. The acidity and moisture are what make it such an effective heat buffer.
Seasonings
A balanced blend of salt and seasonings sharpens the dressing and keeps the slaw bright and craveable rather than heavy.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts
Estimated values — may vary by location and preparation.
How to Customize
Use as Spice Relief
Order it alongside a Hot or Extra Hot tender and eat a forkful between bites — the cool, tangy crunch is the best heat buffer on the menu.
Make It a Combo Side
Swap fries for Kale Slaw in a combo when you want a fresher, lighter, crunchier side.
Pair with Loaded Fries
Order a side of slaw next to Top-Loaded Fries for extra cool contrast against the rich cheese sauce.
Add a Tender on Top
Add a sliced tender over the slaw for a quick, fresh, protein-forward bite.
Best Pairings
Single Tender
The single best pairing for any tender — the cool, tangy slaw cuts the spice rub and cleanses the palate between bites.
Best Pairing
Mac & Cheese
Pair fresh, tangy slaw with creamy mac for a balance of bright and rich in the same meal.
Best Contrast
Dave's Sauce
A side of Dave's Sauce alongside the slaw rounds out the cool, creamy, tangy combination.
Add FlavorFrequently Asked Questions
How much does Kale Slaw cost at Dave's Hot Chicken?
Kale Slaw costs $3.49 as a side at most Dave's Hot Chicken locations in 2026. It's the same slaw layered inside the sliders, now available as a standalone side.
How many calories are in Dave's Kale Slaw?
Dave's Kale Slaw contains approximately 270 calories per side portion. Most of the calories come from the creamy dressing, while the kale and cabbage keep it fresh and crunchy.
Is Kale Slaw vegetarian?
Yes — Kale Slaw is vegetarian. The creamy dressing contains dairy and eggs, so it is not vegan, but it is a fresh, vegetarian-friendly side.
Why is Kale Slaw good with spicy chicken?
Kale Slaw is the most effective spice-relief side at Dave's. Its cool, moisture-rich crunch and tangy acidity slow capsaicin absorption and reset your palate, so eating a forkful between hot bites keeps the Nashville heat from building too fast.
Is Dave's Kale Slaw gluten-free?
The slaw ingredients don't contain wheat, but cross-contact in the kitchen means it is not certified gluten-free. Those with celiac disease should confirm preparation details with their location.
Is Kale Slaw the same as the slaw on the sliders?
Yes — the Kale Slaw side is the same cool, tangy slaw layered inside Dave's sliders. Ordering it as a side lets you use it as a dedicated heat buffer or enjoy more of it alongside any item.
