The Zaxby's Wings & Things meal is a popular combination platter featuring chicken wings, chicken fingerz, crinkle fries, Texas toast, and a side of Zax Sauce®. While a favorite for many, its nutritional profile merits closer inspection for those mindful of their diet. The meal is primarily deep-fried and loaded with calories, fat, and sodium, making it an occasional treat rather than a dietary staple.
What the Meal Includes
To fully grasp the nutritional breakdown, it's essential to consider each component of the Wings & Things meal. The combination of various fried items and high-calorie sauces contributes heavily to the overall nutritional impact. The meal contains:
- 5 Traditional or Boneless Wings, tossed in your choice of sauce.
- 3 Chicken Fingerz™ with Zax Sauce®.
- Crinkle Fries.
- Texas Toast.
- Ranch dipping sauce is typically included with the wings.
A Detailed Nutritional Breakdown
The nutritional information varies slightly between the traditional and boneless versions of the meal. The following data is based on standard preparations and does not account for sauce or drink choices, which can add further calories, fat, and sodium.
Calories: Exceeding Half a Day’s Allowance
One of the most striking nutritional aspects is the high-calorie count. The boneless version typically comes in around 1450 calories, while the traditional can be as high as 1530 calories. For context, this represents over 70% of the daily 2,000-calorie recommendation for the average adult. This calorie density is primarily due to the deep-fried nature of the chicken and fries, and the addition of high-fat sauces and toast.
High Fat and Sodium Content
Both versions of the meal are very high in fat and sodium. The Boneless Wings & Things meal contains about 87g of total fat, with 13g being saturated fat, and a staggering 4620mg of sodium. For the Traditional Wings & Things, you're looking at around 88g of total fat, 16g of saturated fat, and 4520mg of sodium. These figures are well over the recommended daily limits for both saturated fat and sodium for most individuals, with the sodium content alone being almost double the suggested 2,300mg daily limit. Excessive sodium intake can contribute to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular issues over time.
Protein and Carbohydrates
Despite the high levels of fat and sodium, the meal does offer a substantial amount of protein, mostly from the chicken. The traditional version has around 79g of protein, while the boneless offers 62g. The carbohydrate count is also considerable, ranging from 84g for traditional to 106g for boneless, with the majority coming from the fries and Texas toast.
Nutritional Comparison: Traditional vs. Boneless
| Component | Traditional Wings & Things | Boneless Wings & Things |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~1530 | ~1450 |
| Total Fat | 88-96g | 87g |
| Saturated Fat | 16-17g | 13g |
| Sodium | 4520mg | 4620mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 84g | 106g |
| Protein | 77-79g | 62g |
| Cholesterol | 265mg | 125mg |
*Note: Nutritional data can vary slightly depending on the source and specific preparation.
Strategies for a Healthier Zaxby's Meal
If you're a fan of Zaxby's but concerned about the nutritional profile of the Wings & Things meal, consider these modifications or alternatives:
- Choose a Salad: Opt for a Grilled Chicken Salad (like The Grilled House Zalad), which offers a substantial protein boost with fewer calories and significantly less fat and sodium.
- Modify your order: If you must have wings, order them without sauce and skip the fries and Texas toast. A side of celery sticks or an extra portion of grilled chicken can help boost nutrients without adding excessive unhealthy fats.
- Go for Grilled: The Grilled Chicken Sandwich is a much leaner option than the fried counterparts, with considerably lower calories, fat, and sodium.
- Watch the sauces: Many of Zaxby's sauces, including the popular Zax Sauce®, are very high in calories, fat, and sodium. Use them sparingly or choose a sauce with a lower nutritional impact.
Conclusion: Mindful Eating is Key
The Wings & Things meal from Zaxby's is a classic fast-food indulgence, but it is not a nutritionally balanced option for regular consumption. Its high calorie, fat, and sodium content position it as a meal that can significantly impact a person's daily dietary limits in one sitting. For those seeking healthier choices, Zaxby's does offer alternative menu items that are grilled and lighter. Ultimately, enjoying the Wings & Things meal in moderation and being aware of its nutritional impact is the best approach to maintaining a balanced diet. More information on balanced dietary choices can be found on authoritative health websites like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
