When dining at Buffalo Wild Wings, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of wings, sauces, and sides without thinking about the Buffalo Wild Wings calories you’re consuming. Whether you’re trying to maintain a healthy diet or just curious about the calorie content, understanding Buffalo Wild Wings calories can help you make more informed choices. In this guide, we’ll break down the Buffalo Wild Wings calories for various menu items and provide tips on how to enjoy your meal while staying within your calorie goals.
Understanding Calories: Why They Matter
Calories are the units of energy that fuel our bodies. Everything we eat and drink contains calories, which our bodies use to function. However, consuming more calories than our bodies need can lead to weight gain and other health issues. Conversely, consuming too few calories can leave us feeling fatigued and deprived. Understanding the calorie content of your meals can help you make more informed choices, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods while staying on track with your health goals.
The Buffalo Wild Wings Menu: A Caloric Breakdown
Buffalo Wild Wings’ menu is extensive, offering everything from wings and burgers to salads and desserts. The calorie content of these items can vary significantly depending on the portion size, preparation method, and added sauces or sides. Below, we’ll break down the calorie counts for various menu items, helping you navigate the options more effectively.
Wings: The Main Attraction
Wings are undoubtedly the most popular item on the Buffalo Wild Wings menu. They come in various styles, including traditional bone-in wings and boneless wings. The calorie content of your wings will depend on the type you choose, the portion size, and the sauce or seasoning.
Traditional Bone-In Wings
Traditional bone-in wings are a classic choice. They’re flavorful, satisfying, and can be customized with a wide variety of sauces and seasonings. Here’s a breakdown of the calorie content for a serving of 6, 10, and 15 traditional wings without any sauce or seasoning:
- 6 Traditional Wings: Approximately 430 calories
- 10 Traditional Wings: Approximately 720 calories
- 15 Traditional Wings: Approximately 1,080 calories
It’s important to note that these calorie counts do not include the sauce or seasoning, which can significantly increase the total calorie content of your meal.
Boneless Wings
Boneless wings are a popular alternative to traditional wings, especially for those who prefer not to deal with bones. However, they tend to be higher in calories due to their breaded exterior. Here’s a look at the calorie content for a serving of 6, 10, and 15 boneless wings:
- 6 Boneless Wings: Approximately 480 calories
- 10 Boneless Wings: Approximately 800 calories
- 15 Boneless Wings: Approximately 1,200 calories
Again, these calorie counts are for the wings alone, without any added sauces or seasonings.
Sauces and Seasonings: Flavorful Additions
The sauces and seasonings at Buffalo Wild Wings are what make the wings truly special. From mild to spicy, sweet to savory, there’s a flavor for every palate. However, these sauces and seasonings can add a significant number of calories to your meal. Let’s take a closer look at some popular options:
Mild Sauces
If you prefer a milder flavor, these sauces are a great choice:
- Sweet BBQ: Approximately 70 calories per serving
- Teriyaki: Approximately 60 calories per serving
- Mild: Approximately 50 calories per serving
These sauces add a touch of sweetness and tang without overwhelming your taste buds.
Medium Sauces
For those who like a bit more heat, these medium sauces are popular choices:
- Spicy Garlic: Approximately 80 calories per serving
- Asian Zing: Approximately 90 calories per serving
- Honey BBQ: Approximately 70 calories per serving
These sauces strike a balance between sweetness and spiciness, making them a favorite for many.
Hot Sauces
If you’re a fan of spicy food, these hot sauces will give your wings the kick you’re looking for:
- Buffalo: Approximately 80 calories per serving
- Mango Habanero: Approximately 110 calories per serving
- Hot BBQ: Approximately 90 calories per serving
These sauces are bold and flavorful, but be mindful of their higher calorie content.
Dry Seasonings
Dry seasonings are a great way to add flavor without significantly increasing the calorie count. Here are a few popular options:
- Lemon Pepper: Approximately 5 calories per serving
- Cajun: Approximately 5 calories per serving
- Chipotle BBQ: Approximately 5 calories per serving
Dry seasonings allow you to enjoy the taste of your wings without the added calories from sauces.
Sides: The Unsung Heroes (and Calorie Bombs)
Sides are often overlooked, but they can add a significant number of calories to your meal. Whether you’re in the mood for fries, onion rings, or something else, it’s important to consider how these sides contribute to your overall calorie intake.
French Fries
French fries are a classic side dish, but they can be high in calories. Here’s the breakdown for a regular and large serving:
- Regular Fries: Approximately 420 calories
- Large Fries: Approximately 670 calories
French fries are delicious, but their high calorie content makes them a less healthy choice if you’re watching your intake.
Onion Rings
Onion rings are another popular side, but they also come with a hefty calorie count:
- Regular Onion Rings: Approximately 460 calories
- Large Onion Rings: Approximately 830 calories
Onion rings are crunchy and flavorful, but they’re not the best option if you’re trying to cut calories.
Potato Wedges
Potato wedges are a heartier side option, and here’s how the calories stack up:
- Regular Potato Wedges: Approximately 290 calories
- Large Potato Wedges: Approximately 610 calories
Potato wedges are slightly lower in calories than fries or onion rings, but they’re still a substantial addition to your meal.
Mac & Cheese
Mac & cheese is a comforting side dish, but it’s also high in calories:
- Regular Mac & Cheese: Approximately 550 calories
- Large Mac & Cheese: Approximately 1,100 calories
Mac & cheese is creamy and satisfying, but it’s best enjoyed in moderation due to its high calorie content.
Healthier Alternatives: Making Smarter Choices
While Buffalo Wild Wings offers many indulgent options, there are ways to make healthier choices without sacrificing flavor. Here are some tips for keeping your calorie intake in check:
Choose Grilled Options
Grilled chicken or grilled tenders are lower in calories compared to fried options. For example, a grilled chicken sandwich is approximately 390 calories, compared to a crispy chicken sandwich, which is around 700 calories. Grilled options are generally lighter and can be just as flavorful as their fried counterparts.
Opt for Dry Seasonings
Dry seasonings are generally lower in calories than sauces. You can still enjoy a burst of flavor without adding many extra calories. This is a great way to enjoy your wings while keeping the calorie count lower.
Watch Your Portions
Portion control is key when dining out. Consider ordering a smaller serving of wings or sharing a larger portion with friends to cut down on calories. It’s easy to get carried away with larger portions, so being mindful of how much you’re eating can make a big difference.
Skip the High-Calorie Sides
Instead of fries or onion rings, opt for a side salad (approximately 190 calories with dressing) or steamed vegetables (approximately 80 calories) to lighten up your meal. These sides are lower in calories and provide additional nutrients, making them a healthier choice.
Go Easy on the Dips
Dips like ranch and blue cheese can add a lot of extra calories. A serving of ranch dressing, for example, is around 200 calories. Consider using less or choosing a lower-calorie option. You can also dip sparingly or try using your wings without any dip at all.
Beverages: Don’t Forget the Liquid Calories
Many people forget to account for the calories in their beverages, but sugary drinks and alcoholic beverages can add up quickly. Here’s a look at some common drink choices at Buffalo Wild Wings:
Sodas and Soft Drinks
Soft drinks are a popular choice, but they can be high in sugar and calories:
- Regular Soda (12 oz.): Approximately 150 calories
- Diet Soda (12 oz.): 0 calories
Diet sodas offer a calorie-free alternative to regular sodas, but water is always the healthiest option.
Beer
Beer is a common choice at Buffalo Wild Wings, especially during a game, but it can add a significant number of calories to your meal:
- Light Beer (12 oz.): Approximately 100 calories
- Regular Beer (12 oz.): Approximately 150 calories
Opting for a light beer can save you some calories, but keep in mind that alcohol also affects your metabolism.
Cocktails
Cocktails can be particularly high in calories, especially those with added sugars:
- Margarita (8 oz.): Approximately 300 calories
- Long Island Iced Tea (8 oz.): Approximately 400 calories
If you’re looking to cut calories, it’s best to limit or avoid sugary cocktails.
Water
Water is calorie-free and the best choice for staying hydrated without adding calories to your meal. It’s always a good idea to drink water alongside any other beverages to help manage your overall calorie intake.
Desserts: Sweet Treats with a Calorie Punch
If you have a sweet tooth, Buffalo Wild Wings calories offers a variety of desserts. However, these treats can pack a calorie punch, so it’s important to enjoy them in moderation.
Chocolate Fudge Cake
This decadent dessert is rich and satisfying, but it’s also high in calories:
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: Approximately 770 calories
Chocolate fudge cake is a delicious indulgence, but sharing it with a friend can help reduce the calorie load.
Cheesecake Bites
Cheesecake bites are a smaller dessert option, but they’re still calorie-dense:
- Serving Size: 1 order
- Calories: Approximately 720 calories
These bite-sized treats are easy to overeat, so be mindful of portion sizes.
Loaded Ice Cream
Loaded ice cream is a cool, creamy treat, but it’s also high in calories:
- Serving Size: 1 order
- Calories: Approximately 660 calories
If you’re craving something sweet, consider a smaller portion or splitting it with a friend.
Planning Ahead: How to Make the Most of Your Visit
To make healthier choices at Buffalo Wild Wings, it helps to plan ahead. Here are some strategies to help you stay on track:
- Check the Nutrition Information: Buffalo Wild Wings provides nutritional information online, so take a look before you go. This can help you decide what to order in advance.
- Set a Calorie Budget: Decide how many calories you want to consume in your meal and choose items that fit within that budget. This can help you avoid overeating.
- Customize Your Order: Don’t be afraid to ask for modifications, such as sauce on the side, no butter, or a lettuce wrap instead of a bun. These small changes can add up to significant calorie savings.
- Stay Mindful: Enjoy your meal, but pay attention to portion sizes and try not to overeat. Eating slowly and savoring your food can help you feel more satisfied with less.
Conclusion
Buffalo Wild Wings offers a wide range of menu items, from indulgent to lighter fare. By understanding the calorie content of your favorite dishes, you can make more informed choices that align with your health goals. Whether you’re enjoying a game day feast or a casual dinner with friends, these tips can help you navigate the menu without overindulging. Remember, it’s all about balance—enjoy your meal while keeping your calorie intake in check.