The Nutritional Breakdown of BWW Street Tacos
An order of Buffalo Wild Wings' popular street tacos is a flavor-packed dish, but it is also a significant source of calories, fat, and sodium. The total calorie count comes primarily from the pulled chicken, tortillas, and rich sauces. For those watching their intake, understanding the specific macronutrient distribution is key to fitting it into a balanced diet.
Macronutrient and Sodium Details
Here is a detailed breakdown of the nutritional information for one order of street tacos:
- Total Calories: 630
- Total Fat: 39 grams
- Saturated Fat: 9 grams
- Cholesterol: 80 milligrams
- Sodium: 2,140 milligrams (approximately 93% of the daily value for an average diet)
- Total Carbohydrates: 43 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 3 grams
- Total Sugars: 4 grams
- Protein: 28 grams
The high sodium level is a particularly noteworthy detail, representing nearly a full day's worth for many individuals. This is largely due to the sauces, seasoning, and possibly the preparation of the chicken.
A Closer Look at the Ingredients
The primary ingredients of Buffalo Wild Wings' street tacos contribute to its overall nutritional profile. The dish typically features:
- Pulled Chicken: A lean protein source on its own, but its calorie count is influenced by how it's prepared and seasoned.
- Flour Tortillas: The calorie content of the tortillas varies, but they contribute to the total carbohydrate and calorie count.
- Sauces: Rich, flavorful sauces like garlic parmesan and southwestern ranch add a significant amount of fat and calories to the final product.
- Pico de Gallo: While fresh vegetables are included, the effect on the overall calorie count is minimal compared to the other components.
Understanding these components helps explain why the dish, despite its fresh ingredients, carries a higher calorie and fat total than many might expect.
How BWW Street Tacos Compare to Other Menu Items
To put the street tacos' nutritional information into perspective, here is a comparison with a few other popular items from the Buffalo Wild Wings menu. This table uses general estimates for a snack-sized order, as nutritional values can fluctuate based on location and specific preparation. All figures are based on a snack-size or comparable portion.
| Menu Item | Calories | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Street Tacos | 630 | 39 | 43 | 28 |
| Snack Size Traditional Wings | ~441 | ~24 | ~4 | ~47 |
| Snack Size Boneless Wings | ~462 | ~24 | ~19 | ~40 |
| Side Garden Salad (no dressing) | ~82 | ~0 | ~17 | ~2 |
This comparison highlights that while the street tacos are a substantial meal, they are not the most calorie-dense item on the menu. For instance, a traditional or boneless wing snack order can have a similar calorie and fat content, depending on the sauce chosen.
Tips for a Lighter BWW Order
For diners aiming to make healthier choices at Buffalo Wild Wings, several strategies can help reduce the total calorie and sodium intake. Instead of ordering the street tacos as a high-calorie appetizer, you could opt for lighter choices or modify your order.
How to Reduce Calories in Your Tacos
- Request Less Sauce: Sauces like ranch and garlic parmesan are dense in calories and fat. Requesting a lighter drizzle or asking for the sauce on the side allows you to control the amount you consume.
- Reduce Cheese: Cheese adds a creamy texture but also a significant number of calories. Ask for less or no cheese to cut back on fat.
- Focus on Lean Protein: The pulled chicken is a good source of protein. Enjoying the filling and pico de gallo with a smaller portion of the tortilla can help.
- Add More Vegetables: Request extra pico de gallo or a side of fresh vegetables to increase fiber and volume without adding excessive calories.
For a full nutritional breakdown, you can visit the official Buffalo Wild Wings nutrition page.
Conclusion
Buffalo Wild Wings' street tacos are a delicious menu option, but they come with a relatively high calorie count of 630 per serving, along with significant fat and sodium levels. By understanding the nutritional breakdown and making a few simple modifications, you can still enjoy the flavors while managing your dietary goals. Opting for less sauce, less cheese, or sharing the dish can transform it from a high-calorie appetizer into a more balanced meal. Checking the official nutrition information is always the best way to get the most up-to-date and accurate figures for your choices.
