Understanding the Base Calories of 20 Boneless Wings
When you order the 20-piece boneless wings from Buffalo Wild Wings, you are starting with a solid foundation of 1210 calories, before any sauce or seasoning is applied. This base figure accounts for the breaded, all-white meat chicken pieces themselves. It's important to remember this number, as it is the starting point for all nutritional calculations and the total can increase dramatically from there. For many people, especially those tracking their caloric intake, understanding this baseline is the first and most critical step in making an informed dining decision.
The Major Calorie Impact of Sauces and Dry Rubs
The real nutritional story of your boneless wings unfolds with the addition of sauce or dry rub. Buffalo Wild Wings offers a wide variety of flavors, and the calorie content of each can vary wildly. Some sauces are fat-based and rich, while others are sugar-heavy, both of which contribute significantly to the final calorie count. For example, a buttery, creamy sauce like Parmesan Garlic adds a considerable amount of calories, whereas a vinegar-based or spicy pepper sauce may add less, though they still often come with high sodium levels. It's the hand-spinning process that coats every wing in these flavorful additions, ensuring that the calorie boost is thoroughly distributed throughout your 20-piece order.
Calorie Breakdown of Popular Sauces on 20 Boneless Wings
To get a clearer picture of how much your meal can change, let's break down the calorie additions based on the official Buffalo Wild Wings nutrition information. Since calorie counts are often listed for smaller quantities, we will scale up for a 20-wing order. The following estimates are added to the 1210 base calories of the un-sauced wings.
- Original Buffalo: A 10-count serving with Original Buffalo adds 170 calories. Scaled to 20 wings, this is an additional 340 calories, bringing the total to approximately 1550 calories.
- Asian Zing®: A 10-count with Asian Zing® adds 170 calories. Scaled to 20 wings, that's another 340 calories, for a total of 1550 calories.
- Spicy Garlic: A 10-count with Spicy Garlic adds 90 calories. This is an additional 180 calories for 20 wings, making the total around 1390 calories.
- Parmesan Garlic: A 10-count with Parmesan Garlic adds 260 calories. This adds a significant 520 calories for 20 wings, pushing the total to about 1730 calories.
- Lemon Pepper Seasoning: While a dry rub, it also contributes calories. A 10-count with Lemon Pepper adds 5 calories, so 20 wings would add 10 calories for a total of approximately 1220 calories, making it one of the lower-calorie options.
Additional Nutritional Factors Beyond Calories
Calorie count is only part of the story. You should also consider other nutritional information, especially sodium and fat content, which are often high in boneless wings. Many sauces are high in sodium, with some flavors adding thousands of milligrams to your meal. The boneless chicken itself is breaded and fried, which contributes to its high fat content. Awareness of these factors can lead to more balanced choices.
Comparison Table: 20 Boneless Wings with Different Flavors
| Sauce / Rub | Approximate Calories (20 Wings) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| No Sauce/Plain | 1210 | The base calorie count. |
| Lemon Pepper | 1220 (1210 + 10) | One of the lowest-calorie options. |
| Spicy Garlic | 1390 (1210 + 180) | A moderate option with less sugar. |
| Original Buffalo | 1550 (1210 + 340) | Standard, but with a significant bump. |
| Asian Zing® | 1550 (1210 + 340) | Similar to Original Buffalo in total calories. |
| Parmesan Garlic | 1730 (1210 + 520) | Highest in fat and calories. |
Making Healthier Choices at Buffalo Wild Wings
If you're watching your calorie intake but still want to enjoy boneless wings, there are ways to minimize the impact. Opting for a dry rub instead of a sauce is a simple way to start, as seen with the minimal calorie addition of Lemon Pepper seasoning. If you prefer a sauce, choose a spicier, vinegar-based option over a creamy or sugary one. You can also pair your wings with a side salad instead of fries to reduce overall meal calories. Remember that portions matter, and sharing a 20-piece order can be a great way to enjoy the flavor without overindulging. For a comprehensive look at all menu items, you can consult the official Buffalo Wild Wings nutritional guide for specific details: Buffalo Wild Wings Nutritional Information
Conclusion: The Sauce Is the Story
In conclusion, while the base for 20 boneless wings at Buffalo Wild Wings is 1210 calories, the final number is heavily influenced by your choice of sauce or dry rub. The difference between a simple rub and a heavy, creamy sauce can add hundreds of calories to your meal. By understanding this variation and making conscious choices, you can better manage your intake while still enjoying the flavors you love. Whether you opt for a low-calorie dry rub or decide to splurge on a richer sauce, awareness is key to mindful eating.
Healthier Alternatives to Boneless Wings
For those who are particularly mindful of their health, Buffalo Wild Wings offers several alternatives to boneless wings that can help reduce calorie, fat, and sodium intake. Exploring these options might provide a more balanced meal experience without sacrificing the fun of dining out. Here are a few to consider:
- Traditional Wings: While it may seem counterintuitive, sometimes opting for traditional wings and controlling the sauce can be a better choice. The base calories for traditional wings are different, and some flavor combinations can be less calorically dense per piece.
- Salads: The restaurant offers various salads with grilled chicken options. Choosing a light dressing on the side can create a much lighter and more nutrient-dense meal.
- Sides: Replacing the standard fries with a healthier side like a side salad or steamed vegetables (if available) can significantly cut down on calories and fat.
- Customization: Always feel free to ask for sauces on the side. This allows you to control exactly how much you are adding to your wings, giving you full command over your nutritional intake.
- Cauliflower Wings: Some locations may offer cauliflower wings, which can be a lower-calorie, vegetable-based alternative, depending on the preparation and sauce.
By exploring these alternatives, you can still enjoy the experience at Buffalo Wild Wings while making choices that align more closely with your health and dietary goals.
