The Core Nutritional Breakdown of 10 Plain Wings
For a standard 10-count order of traditional wings at Buffalo Wild Wings, the base calorie count is 720. These are plain wings, without any sauce or dry seasoning applied. The primary source of these calories comes from the chicken meat and the frying process. The macronutrient profile for this base serving is largely composed of fat and protein:
- Calories: 720
- Total Fat: 41g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Protein: 88g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sodium: 270mg
This breakdown shows that the wings themselves are a high-protein, high-fat meal. The fact that they contain zero carbohydrates makes them a suitable option for those on a low-carb diet, provided they choose a zero-carb seasoning or sauce. However, the vast majority of flavor options contain significant added sugars and fats.
The Significant Impact of Sauces and Seasonings
The calorie count for your 10 traditional wings can increase dramatically depending on your choice of flavor. Sauces, especially those that are sweet or creamy, can add hundreds of calories, as well as a substantial amount of sodium and sugar. Dry seasonings, on the other hand, add very few calories by comparison.
Here are some examples of how popular choices can affect your 10-count traditional wing order, based on the nutrition guide:
- Lemon Pepper (Dry Rub): This dry seasoning adds a minimal 5 calories and 290mg of sodium per serving, making it one of the lightest options.
- Hot Sauce: A more traditional choice, adding 70 calories and 1,650mg of sodium to the base wings.
- Honey BBQ Sauce: Adds 100 calories and 620mg of sodium, as it is a sweeter, sugar-based sauce.
- Spicy Garlic Sauce: Adds 70 calories and 1,700mg of sodium, showing the impact of added fat and seasoning.
- Parmesan Garlic Sauce: As one of the highest-calorie sauce options, it adds 190 calories to your wings, primarily due to its fat content.
Comparison: Traditional vs. Boneless Wings
For those comparing wing options, the nutritional differences can be surprising. The following table provides a comparison based on information for a standard serving size, typically 6 wings.
| Feature | Traditional Wings (6-count) | Boneless Wings (6-count) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories (plain) | 430 cal | 360 cal |
| Fat | 24g | 19g |
| Carbohydrates | 0g | 20g |
| Protein | 53g | 29g |
As the table indicates, boneless wings have slightly fewer calories and fat per piece, but they contain a higher amount of carbohydrates due to the breading. Traditional wings, conversely, are higher in protein and contain zero carbs without sauce. The choice between them depends on your specific dietary goals, whether it's managing carbs or reducing fat.
Flats vs. Drums: Is There a Calorie Difference?
For the wing purists who prefer one style over the other, there is a slight calorie variation. A 10-count order of all flats contains approximately 680 calories, while a 10-count order of all drums has around 750 calories. The difference comes down to the meat-to-skin ratio and overall size, with the slightly larger and meatier drums carrying a bit more fat and protein.
Tips for a Lighter BWW Meal
If you're watching your calorie intake, there are several ways to enjoy Buffalo Wild Wings without derailing your diet. The key is to be mindful of your choices, especially concerning portion sizes, sauces, and side dishes.
Here are some simple steps to reduce your wing-related calories:
- Choose a Dry Seasoning: Opt for a dry rub like Desert Heat or Lemon Pepper over a wet sauce to minimize added fats and sugars.
- Order Sauce on the Side: This allows you to control exactly how much sauce you consume. A little dip goes a long way.
- Opt for Grilled Wings (if available): Grilling wings instead of frying can be a lower-calorie preparation method.
- Pick a Lighter Sauce: If you must have a sauce, choose one of the lower-calorie options. Look at the nutritional menu for the lowest numbers.
- Select Healthier Sides: Swap high-calorie sides like fries for carrots and celery. A side of carrot sticks has only 50 calories.
Conclusion
Knowing how many calories are in 10 traditional wings from BWW (720, unflavored) is the first step toward making informed dietary choices. The true calorie impact of your meal largely depends on your sauce or seasoning preference. By selecting dry rubs, controlling your sauce portions, and choosing healthier sides, you can enjoy your wings while still staying on track with your nutritional goals.
For a complete overview of all menu items, you can consult the official Buffalo Wild Wings nutritional guide for specific details on every flavor and side.
The Lowest Calorie Sauces and Rubs
- Dry Seasonings: The lowest calorie options are typically the dry rubs like Desert Heat and Lemon Pepper, which add minimal calories.
- Hot Sauce: One of the lowest calorie wet sauces, providing flavor without excessive fat or sugar.
- Spicy Garlic Sauce: A lower-calorie, albeit higher sodium, choice among the wet sauces.
Wing Sizes and Calorie Counts
- Traditional Wings (6-count, plain): 430 calories.
- Traditional Wings (10-count, plain): 720 calories.
- Traditional Wings (15-count, plain): 1080 calories.
These numbers illustrate how portion size is a key factor in managing calorie intake.
Final Takeaway
A 10-count order of plain traditional wings at Buffalo Wild Wings has 720 calories, but this is just the beginning. The addition of sauces and dry seasonings can significantly increase this number, with some creamy or sweet sauces adding over 100 calories per serving. To keep your meal lighter, opt for dry rubs, ask for sauce on the side, and choose non-fried sides like celery and carrots.
Additional Nutritional Facts
Besides the calories, a 10-count of plain traditional wings also contains 360mg of cholesterol. This is another aspect of the nutritional profile to consider for your overall health, in addition to the calorie and sodium content.
Comparing to Boneless
While traditional wings are lower in carbohydrates, their boneless counterparts have fewer base calories. However, boneless wings derive more calories from breading and less from protein, a key distinction for different dietary goals.
