The Calorie Breakdown: Traditional vs. Boneless
The fundamental choice at Buffalo Wild Wings is between traditional, bone-in wings and boneless wings. This decision is the single most significant factor in your meal's calorie count before you even choose a sauce. Buffalo Wild Wings' traditional wings are deep-fried in beef shortening, which provides a key flavor component but also significantly contributes to the overall fat and calorie content. Boneless wings are essentially large chunks of chicken breast, often breaded, which alters the macronutrient profile. The base calorie counts, before adding any sauce or rub, are strikingly different.
Traditional Wings (20 Count)
- Calories: 1440
- Total Fat: 82g
- Saturated Fat: 27g
- Protein: 177g
Boneless Wings (20 Count)
- Calories: 1210
- Total Fat: Varies by app, but lower due to leaner cut of meat
- Protein: Varies by app, but includes the breading
These base calorie counts are just the starting point. They reflect the preparation of the plain wing itself. Once you add one of Buffalo Wild Wings' signature sauces or dry rubs, the total can change dramatically.
The Impact of Sauces and Dry Rubs
Choosing a sauce or dry rub is where the total calorie count can skyrocket, and the effect varies widely. Sauces are generally more caloric than dry rubs, which often add minimal calories but significant sodium. For example, a dry seasoning like Lemon Pepper adds only 5 calories to a 6-piece order, while a thick, creamy sauce adds much more.
To put it in perspective, here's a look at how sauces can add up. Note that these figures are for a standard amount of sauce applied to a smaller wing order and should be extrapolated for a 20-piece accordingly.
- Spicy Garlic Sauce: For a 20-count boneless, the sauce adds approximately 180 calories.
- High-Calorie Sauces: Creamy or sweet sauces, like Honey BBQ, will add more calories and sugar.
- Lower-Calorie Sauces: Vinegar-based sauces and dry rubs tend to be the lowest in calories.
It's crucial to check the official Buffalo Wild Wings nutrition information for specific sauce details, as recipes and menu items can change.
Comparison: Traditional, Boneless, and Naked Tenders
For a clear nutritional perspective, let's compare a 20-piece order of traditional wings with boneless wings and a leaner menu option like Naked Tenders. Remember that the Naked Tenders are not deep-fried like the wings, making them a much lighter choice.
| Feature | Traditional Wings (20 pc, Plain) | Boneless Wings (20 pc, Plain) | Naked Tenders (5 pc, Plain) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 1440 kcal | 1210 kcal | 680 kcal |
| Protein | 177g | Approx. 115g (estimated) | Approx. 85g (estimated) |
| Fat | 82g | Approx. 60g (estimated) | Approx. 35g (estimated) |
| Carbohydrates | 0g | Approx. 90g (estimated) | Minimal |
Tips for a Lighter Buffalo Wild Wings Meal
If you're watching your calorie intake but still want to enjoy a meal at Buffalo Wild Wings, here are some practical tips:
- Choose the right wing type: Opting for the 20-count boneless wings over traditional saves you over 200 calories right away.
- Go naked: Order Naked Tenders instead of wings for a significantly lower-calorie meal, as they are not fried in beef shortening.
- Pick your sauce wisely: Choose a dry rub or a vinegar-based sauce. Sauces like Asian Zing or Blazin' Carolina Reaper typically have fewer calories than creamy or sugary alternatives.
- Share the order: A 20-piece is a large, high-calorie meal for one person. Consider splitting it with a friend or taking half home for another meal.
- Skip the sides: The full meal experience with fries and dipping sauces like ranch or bleu cheese can add hundreds of extra calories very quickly.
The Bottom Line: Making an Informed Choice
A 20 piece Buffalo Wild Wings meal is a high-calorie, high-fat choice, especially if you opt for traditional wings and a caloric sauce. While delicious, it should be enjoyed in moderation. Understanding the base calorie difference between traditional and boneless wings, as well as the calorie additions from different sauces, empowers you to make a more informed choice based on your dietary needs.
For the most up-to-date and specific nutritional information, it is always best to consult the official Buffalo Wild Wings Nutrition Guide. The difference in wing type and sauce selection demonstrates that a single meal can vary by several hundred calories, so choosing wisely is key to fitting it into a balanced diet.
Conclusion
To conclude, a 20-piece traditional wings order from Buffalo Wild Wings contains 1440 calories, while the boneless equivalent has 1210 calories, both before the addition of sauce. The final calorie count is heavily dependent on your sauce or dry rub choice. By being mindful of these variables and considering lighter options like Naked Tenders or sharing your meal, you can enjoy the Buffalo Wild Wings experience while better managing your nutritional intake.
