Quick Answer
The number of calories in TGI Fridays chicken dishes can vary greatly depending on the specific menu item. However, most chicken entrees at TGI Fridays contain between 500-1500 calories. Grilled chicken tenders, fried chicken tenders, chicken fajitas, chicken alfredo, and chicken parmesan are some popular chicken dishes at TGI Fridays that range from around 600-1400 calories per serving. The calorie count depends on factors like the cooking method (grilled vs fried), size of the portion, and any additional toppings, sides or sauces. Checking the TGI Fridays nutrition information online or in-restaurant can give you a more precise calorie count for a specific chicken menu item.
Calories in TGI Fridays Grilled Chicken Dishes
TGI Fridays offers several grilled chicken entrees that are relatively lower in calories compared to fried chicken options. Here are some approximate calorie counts for popular grilled chicken dishes at TGI Fridays:
| Grilled Chicken Menu Item | Calories |
|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken Breast | 530 |
| Lemon Chicken Scaloppini | 600 |
| Grilled Chicken Tenders | 700 |
| Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta | 860 |
| Chicken Fajitas (grilled chicken) | 950 |
As shown, grilled chicken dishes at Fridays range from around 530 calories for a simple grilled chicken breast to 950 calories for fajitas with onions, peppers, tortillas, cheese and other add-ons. Choosing grilled chicken is a lower calorie option compared to fried chicken.
Calories in TGI Fridays Fried Chicken Dishes
Fried chicken options at TGI Fridays are higher in calories because they are cooked in oil. Here are the approximate calories for some popular fried chicken dishes:
| Fried Chicken Menu Item | Calories |
|---|---|
| Fried Chicken Tenders | 1090 |
| Honey-Chipotle Crispy Chicken Crispers | 1210 |
| Chicken Fajitas (fried chicken) | 1280 |
| Crispy Chicken & Waffles | 1460 |
As you can see, fried chicken dishes at TGI Fridays have between 1,000-1,500 calories per serving. Frying adds more calories than grilling.
Calories in TGI Fridays Chicken Sandwiches & Burgers
Chicken sandwiches and burgers also have a wide range of calories at TGI Fridays depending on preparation method and toppings:
| Chicken Sandwich/Burger | Calories |
|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken Sandwich | 670 |
| Crispy Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich | 1030 |
| Fried Chicken Sandwich | 790 |
| Chicken Fajita Burger | 890 |
| Whiskey Bacon Burger (fried chicken) | 1260 |
The grilled chicken sandwiches are around 700 calories, while fried chicken or bacon/cheese-topped burgers are 1,000 calories or more.
Calories in TGI Fridays Chicken Salads
Chicken salads at Fridays also vary in calories:
| Chicken Salad | Calories |
|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad | 710 |
| Crispy Chicken Bacon Ranch Salad | 870 |
| Fried Chicken Cobb Salad | 980 |
The grilled chicken Caesar has the lowest calories, while fried chicken and bacon-topped salads are higher in calories.
Calories in TGI Fridays Chicken Pastas and Parm Dishes
Here are the approximate calories for chicken pastas and parm dishes at Fridays:
| Chicken Pasta/Parm Dish | Calories |
|---|---|
| Chicken Fettuccini Alfredo | 1210 |
| Chicken Parmesan | 1460 |
| Chicken Parmesan Pasta | 1350 |
These cream and cheese-based dishes range from around 1,200-1,500 calories per serving.
Factors Affecting TGI Fridays Chicken Calories
As you can see, the number of calories in TGI Fridays chicken dishes varies significantly based on:
- Preparation method: Grilled chicken is lower calorie than fried
- Portion size: Larger portions mean more calories
- Additions: Extra toppings, sauces, cheeses increase calories
- Side dishes: Serving chicken with fries, bacon, creamy sauce boosts calories
In general, grilled chicken entrees without heavy sauces or sides range 500-800 calories, while fried chicken dishes and richer pasta/parmesan meals are often 1,200-1,500 calories.
How to Order Lower Calorie Chicken at TGI Fridays
Here are some tips to reduce calories when ordering chicken at TGI Fridays:
- Choose grilled chicken over fried whenever possible
- Opt for healthier sides like salads and avoid fries or high-calorie toppings
- Order tomato-based sauces instead of creamy alfredo or cheese sauces
- Avoid chicken parm dishes and pastas with alfredo sauce or heavy cheese
- Order smaller portion chicken tenders or sandwiches instead of larger fried entrees
- Ask for sauces and dressings on the side to control portions
- Take half the meal home for leftovers to avoid overeating in one sitting
Making customizations like these when ordering can help reduce the total calorie count of chicken dishes at Fridays. Checking the nutrition facts online for calorie counts can also help guide lower calorie choices.
Conclusion
In summary, the number of calories in TGI Fridays chicken dishes ranges widely from 500-1500+ calories depending on the preparation method, portion size, and additions like sauces, cheeses, and sides. Grilled chicken entrees tend to be on the lower calorie end around 500-800 calories, while fried chicken, parmesan dishes, pastas, and sandwiches with lots of toppings and sauces are higher in calories. Choosing grilled chicken options without heavy additions is the best way to reduce calories when dining at TGI Fridays. Checking the nutrition facts and making customized lower calorie selections can help you enjoy Fridays chicken while maintaining your calorie and health goals.