I visited Applebee's, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Chili's with a $30 budget. Some chains offered way more value than others.

I compared $30 meals at three different chain restaurants to find the best value. Artography/Shutterstock; Ken Wolter/Shutterstock; Joseph Hendrickson/Shutterstock

I went to Applebee's, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Chili's with a $30 budget.

To keep things fair, I ordered chips and queso and a breaded-chicken sandwich at each restaurant.

The entrée from Buffalo Wild Wings was my favorite, but I think Chili's offered the best value.

Though I typically try to eat local, I've always had a soft spot for casual-dining chains .

However, it had been years since I'd eaten at some of my old staples, and I wanted to see which chain restaurants near me offered the best food and value.

So, I visited my local Applebee's, Buffalo Wild Wings , and Chili's locations with plans to spend $30 at each.…