5 Tenders
Sometimes one order just isn’t enough — and Smashburger knows it. The 5 Tenders meal is made for those who crave more of that golden, crispy comfort without compromise. Hand-breaded, perfectly seasoned, and fried fresh to order, this meal doubles down on crunch and flavor for a hearty portion that satisfies every bite.
Whether you’re sharing with friends, feeding your inner foodie, or pairing it with a Crispy Chicken Sandwich or Colorado Big Dog, these tenders are the ultimate versatile favorite. Lightly seasoned yet full of depth, they’re proof that simple ingredients, done right, create unforgettable flavor.
Price: $9.49 | 940 Cal
Price Information💵
Item | In-Store Price (USD) | Combo Meal (USD) | Delivery Range* |
5 Tenders | $9.49 | $12.99 – $13.39 | $14.69 – $15.19 |
- *Delivery prices vary slightly by platform.
- Combos include fries and a drink. The 5 Tenders are also part of the limited-time “Smash Feast Combo,” where guests can add a Deluxe Chicken Smash or Classic Smashburger for a discounted duo.
Background
The 5 Tenders option was introduced after customers fell in love with the smaller 3 Tenders meal but wanted something more substantial. Smashburger listened — and delivered. Using the same hand-breading process and quality chicken, the brand created a shareable, entrée-sized portion that still maintains its fresh-cooked appeal.
It’s become a favorite for families, protein-seekers, and anyone who believes there’s no such thing as too much crispy chicken. The 5 Tenders also inspired spicy counterparts like the 5 Scorchin’ Hot Tenders, offering heat lovers their own perfect version.
Ingredients & Build
The 5 Tenders share the same hand-crafted DNA as their smaller sibling, just more of it:
- All-white chicken breast strips – juicy, tender, and freshly cut.
- Buttermilk marinade – locks in moisture and subtle tang.
- Seasoned flour coating – perfectly balanced with herbs and pepper.
- Vegetable oil fry – clean, consistent crispness.
- Dipping sauces – ranch, honey mustard, BBQ, or Smash Sauce.
The key is texture harmony — crisp outside, tender inside — making these tenders irresistible alone or dipped in something creamy or tangy.
Calories & Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 940 |
Protein | 59 g |
Total Fat | 48 g |
Saturated Fat | 10 g |
Carbohydrates | 545 g |
Sugars | 4 g |
Fiber | 2 g |
Cholesterol | 145 mg |
Sodium | 1,850 mg |
This hearty portion offers enough protein to fuel a meal — perfect for sharing or solo indulgence.
Allergen & Dietary Information
Allergen | Present |
Milk | ✅ |
Wheat | ✅ |
Soy | ✅ |
Egg | ✅ |
Sesame | Possible |
Peanuts | ❌ |
Tree Nuts | ❌ |
Fish | ❌ |
Shellfish | ❌ |
Contains milk, soy, egg, and gluten. Gluten-free options available in select locations.
Taste & Texture Review
The 5 Tenders hit that sweet spot between crunch and juiciness. The breading is crisp but thin — not heavy or oily — allowing the tender chicken flavor to shine. A touch of garlic and pepper in the batter adds subtle warmth, while the buttermilk marinade keeps each bite moist and flavorful.
They’re endlessly versatile: dip them in honey mustard for sweet balance, Smash Sauce for savory depth, or ranch for a cool, creamy finish. If you enjoy the 3 Tenders, the five-piece meal turns that comfort into a full entrée experience.
Chef’s Notes & Culinary Insight 👨🍳
According to Smashburger’s culinary team, each batch of tenders is breaded by hand and cooked immediately — never frozen or pre-fried. The chicken strips are soaked in buttermilk for at least 12 hours to enhance tenderness before being dredged in seasoned flour.
The precise fry time of 4 minutes at 350°F ensures an even golden coating and fully cooked interior without dryness. After frying, tenders are placed on a rack (not paper) to maintain airflow and preserve crisp texture — a key detail that separates Smashburger tenders from competitors.
Flavor Science & Crisp Balance
Crunch, juiciness, and aroma are what make the 5 Tenders addictive. The buttermilk adds acidity, which naturally tenderizes the meat while contributing to the Maillard reaction that gives the crust its golden hue. A touch of black pepper and garlic in the flour enhances flavor complexity without overpowering the chicken.
The result is a crave-worthy balance — crispy texture meets juicy protein, creating sensory contrast that keeps you reaching for the next bite.
Popular Combos & Pairings
The 5 Tenders shine with nearly any Smashburger side or beverage:
- Smashfries – rosemary and garlic elevate the savory tones.
- Sweet Potato Fries – provide a sweet counterpart to the saltiness.
- Chocolate Shake – classic comfort combination.
Recommended Combo (“Crispy Feast Trio”)
- 5 Tenders
- Smashfries
- Chocolate Shake
Customization Options:
- Add bacon crumble (+ $1.25) for smoky richness.
- Mix two dips for layered flavor.
- Turn into a meal with a side Crispy Chicken Sandwich (+$7.99).
Customer Opinions & Ratings ⭐
The 5 Tenders have earned a strong following for consistency and quality:
- Google Reviews (Denver): 4.9 stars — “Massive portion, super fresh. Way better than fast-food tenders.”
- Reddit: “Best tenders I’ve had from a burger place — not greasy at all.”
- TripAdvisor: “Perfectly golden and flavorful. Great for sharing.”
- Quora: “Crispy outside, juicy inside. Smashburger nailed the ratio.”
Many diners mention ordering the 5 Tenders with the Deluxe Chicken Smash or Colorado Big Dog for the ultimate “Smash Sampler” experience.
Nutritional Perspective
Although indulgent, the 5 Tenders are packed with lean protein. Splitting the order between two people or skipping the fries brings the calorie total under 700 per serving. The high protein-to-fat ratio makes them a satisfying yet balanced option compared to fried fast-food alternatives.
For guests watching sodium or calories, Smashburger recommends alternating between grilled options like the Deluxe Chicken Smash or Double Deluxe Chicken Smash on future visits.
Smashburger’s Craft & Technique
Smashburger’s meticulous frying process mirrors its famous “smash” grilling approach. The brand prioritizes consistent heat, rotation, and ingredient freshness across its menu. Every batch of tenders is fried to order — never held under heat lamps — ensuring the same restaurant-quality crunch every time.
This approach also extends to other items like the Scorchin’ Hot Tenders and Crispy Chicken Sandwich, showcasing Smashburger’s mission to make every bite feel premium, no matter the category.
Final Thoughts
The 5 Tenders take everything fans love about Smashburger’s chicken — the crunch, the juiciness, and the handcrafted quality — and supersize it. They’re hearty enough for a meal yet shareable enough for a group, making them one of the most flexible and crowd-pleasing menu choices.
If you love the 3 Tenders, this upgrade is the perfect next step. Or pair them with the Scorchin’ Hot Crispy Chicken Sandwich for a balanced spicy-and-mild experience. Either way, the 5 Tenders prove that Smashburger’s mastery goes far beyond burgers.
