When you hear the name Buffalo Wild Wings, what likely comes to mind are crispy, saucy chicken wings served alongside a cold beverage. They are perfect for game night, a casual meal with friends, or even a quick snack. However, if you’ve ever wondered what exactly constitutes “one serving of Buffalo Wild Wings,” you’re not alone. The answer can be a bit more complex than you might think, considering the variety of options available.
In this article, we’ll delve deep into what makes up a serving of Buffalo Wild Wings, discussing different options, sizes, and types of wings. We’ll also explore the wide array of sauces and dry rubs, how they impact the experience, and the broader cultural and social context surrounding this beloved dining institution.
For a deeper dive into the history of Buffalo Wings and how they became a national favorite, explore their origin story.
Buffalo Wild Wings Serving Size Explained
Before diving into what makes up a serving at Buffalo Wild Wings, it’s worth taking a moment to explore the history of this popular chain. Buffalo Wild Wings, often referred to simply as B-Dubs by its fans, was founded in 1982 by Jim Disbrow and Scott Lowery in Columbus, Ohio. The two friends were unable to find authentic Buffalo-style wings in their area, which inspired them to start their own wing restaurant.
The restaurant initially focused solely on Buffalo wings, the spicy, saucy chicken wings that originated in Buffalo, New York. Over time, the menu expanded to include a wide variety of wing flavors, sauces, and even other types of food, such as burgers, salads, and wraps. However, despite this expansion, wings remain the heart and soul of Buffalo Wild Wings.
The Rise of Wings in American Culture
Wings have become a quintessential part of American bar and sports culture, and Buffalo Wild Wings is largely responsible for their nationwide popularity. Wings are now an iconic snack food, particularly associated with events like Super Bowl parties and casual nights out.
The term “Buffalo wings” refers specifically to deep-fried chicken wings tossed in a cayenne pepper-based hot sauce. These wings were invented at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, in 1964, and have since become a staple in American cuisine. What was once a local specialty has now grown into a nationwide phenomenon, with Buffalo Wild Wings leading the charge in popularizing the dish across the country.
The chain’s success is largely due to its ability to appeal to a broad audience, combining wings with the excitement of sports and a casual dining atmosphere. Their restaurants are often filled with large TV screens broadcasting sports games, creating an environment that’s perfect for both sports fans and wing lovers alike.
The Basics: What is One Serving of Buffalo Wild Wings?
So, what is one serving of Buffalo Wild Wings? The answer depends on what type of wings you’re ordering. Buffalo Wild Wings offers two main types of wings: traditional bone-in wings and boneless wings. The serving size for each type differs, and within each category, there are different sizes available.
Traditional Wings
Traditional wings are the classic bone-in wings that are deep-fried and tossed in your choice of sauce or dry rub. When ordering traditional wings, one serving typically consists of 8 wings. However, the exact number can vary depending on whether you order snack size, small, medium, or large portions.
- Snack Size: 5 wings
- Small: 10 wings
- Medium: 15 wings
- Large: 20 wings
As you can see, the number of wings in a serving can vary significantly depending on the size of the order. The snack size is great for a quick bite or for pairing with other items on the menu, while the large size is perfect for sharing with a group or for a particularly hearty appetite.
Boneless Wings
Boneless wings are another popular option at Buffalo Wild Wings. These are breaded and fried pieces of chicken breast meat, shaped to resemble traditional wings but without the bone. Boneless wings are often easier to eat, making them a popular choice for those who prefer not to deal with bones.
The serving size for boneless wings is typically 6 pieces. Like traditional wings, boneless wings are available in snack size, small, medium, and large portions.
- Snack Size: 6 pieces
- Small: 10 pieces
- Medium: 15 pieces
- Large: 20 pieces
While boneless wings are a bit more uniform in size compared to traditional wings, the serving sizes follow a similar structure. The snack size is a great option for a smaller meal, while the larger sizes are ideal for sharing or for a more filling meal.
Exploring Sauces and Dry Rubs in Buffalo Wild Wings Portions 
One of the things that sets Buffalo Wild Wings apart from other wing joints is the incredible variety of sauces and dry rubs available. These flavors allow you to customize your wings to your exact preferences, whether you like them mild, spicy, sweet, or savory. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular options.
Sauces
Buffalo Wild Wings offers a wide range of sauces, each with its own unique flavor profile. The sauces are ranked on a scale from mild to wild, allowing customers to choose the level of heat they’re comfortable with. Here are some of the most popular sauces, ranging from mild to wild:
- Mild Sauces:
- Sweet BBQ: A classic barbecue sauce with a hint of sweetness, perfect for those who prefer their wings without much heat.
- Teriyaki: A sweet and savory sauce with a touch of soy sauce flavor, offering a Japanese twist on wings.
- Honey Garlic: A sweet sauce with a subtle garlic flavor, ideal for those who like a balance of sweet and savory.
- Medium Sauces:
- Spicy Garlic: A blend of garlic and medium heat, offering a zesty and flavorful option without being overwhelming.
- Caribbean Jerk: A sauce with a tropical twist, featuring a combination of sweet and spicy flavors inspired by Caribbean cuisine.
- Hot Sauces:
- Buffalo: The classic hot sauce that started it all, made with cayenne pepper and vinegar for a tangy, spicy kick.
- Asian Zing: A sweet and spicy sauce with flavors of chili, soy, and ginger, offering a fusion of Asian-inspired tastes.
- Mango Habanero: A fruity yet fiery sauce that combines the sweetness of mango with the intense heat of habanero peppers.
- Wild Sauces:
- Blazin’: The hottest sauce on the menu, made with ghost peppers for an extreme level of heat. This sauce is not for the faint of heart!
Each sauce provides a different experience, allowing customers to experiment with flavors and find their favorites. Whether you prefer the smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce or the tongue-tingling heat of Blazin’, Buffalo Wild Wings has something for everyone.
Dry Rubs
In addition to their wide range of sauces, Buffalo Wild Wings also offers a variety of dry rubs. These seasonings are sprinkled onto the wings after they’re cooked, offering a different texture and flavor profile compared to sauced wings. Here are some of the most popular dry rubs:
- Lemon Pepper: A zesty and tangy dry rub with a strong lemon flavor balanced by black pepper.
- Salt & Vinegar: A tangy and salty seasoning that’s perfect for fans of salt and vinegar chips.
- Desert Heat: A smoky and slightly spicy rub with a hint of sweetness, offering a bold flavor profile.
- Buffalo: A dry version of the classic Buffalo sauce, offering all the flavor of Buffalo wings without the mess.
Dry rubs provide a great alternative to traditional sauces for those who prefer a less messy dining experience or want a lighter coating on their wings. The flavors are just as bold and satisfying, making them a popular choice among customers.
Dining Experiences with One Serving of Buffalo Wild Wings
Beyond just choosing between boneless and traditional wings, Buffalo Wild Wings offers a variety of experiences that elevate the act of eating wings into a social and cultural event. The atmosphere at Buffalo Wild Wings is one of camaraderie, excitement, and communal enjoyment, making it an ideal location for everything from casual family meals to sports viewing parties.
Wing Nights
One of the most beloved traditions at Buffalo Wild Wings is their wing nights, where customers can enjoy discounted wings on specific nights of the week. These events draw in crowds of wing enthusiasts looking to indulge in their favorite flavors at a lower price. Wing nights often become social gatherings, where friends come together to enjoy food, drinks, and conversation.
The tradition of wing nights speaks to the broader culture of communal dining that Buffalo Wild Wings fosters. It’s not just about the food it’s about the experience of enjoying wings with others, whether that be in celebration of a sports game or simply as a way to unwind after a long day.
Catering and Takeout Options
While dining in at Buffalo Wild Wings is a unique experience, the chain also offers catering and takeout options for those who want to enjoy their wings at home or at an event. Whether you’re hosting a party, a work event, or just a casual get-together with friends, Buffalo Wild Wings’ catering options allow you to bring the same flavors and excitement of the restaurant to your own gathering.
The catering menu includes large trays of wings in various flavors, as well as sides like fries, onion rings, and more. This makes it easy to customize your order based on the preferences of your guests, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
The Role of Wings in Sports Culture
Wings and sports have become inextricably linked in American culture, and Buffalo Wild Wings has capitalized on this connection by creating an environment that’s perfect for watching the big game while enjoying some of your favorite flavors. The restaurant’s numerous large-screen TVs, coupled with the lively atmosphere, make it a popular destination for sports fans.
Watching sports at Buffalo Wild Wings is more than just a meal it’s an event. The combination of wings, beer, and the thrill of the game creates an experience that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere. It’s no wonder that Buffalo Wild Wings has become a go-to spot for sports fans across the country.
Wings and Beyond: Other Menu Offerings
While wings are undoubtedly the star of the show at Buffalo Wild Wings, the menu includes a variety of other items that complement the wing experience. From appetizers to desserts, the menu offers a range of options for diners who may want something other than wings or who want to add a little variety to their meal.
Appetizers
Buffalo Wild Wings offers a variety of appetizers that are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying alongside your wings. Some of the most popular options include:
- Mozzarella Sticks: Breaded and fried mozzarella cheese sticks served with marinara sauce.
- Fried Pickles: Tangy pickles that are breaded and fried, served with a side of ranch dressing.
- Onion Rings: Crispy, golden onion rings served with a zesty dipping sauce.
- Pretzel Bites: Soft, warm pretzel bites served with a creamy cheese dip.
These appetizers are great for kicking off your meal or sharing with a group, adding an extra layer of indulgence to your dining experience.
Burgers and Sandwiches
In addition to their famous wings, Buffalo Wild Wings also offers a variety of burgers and sandwiches. These items provide a hearty alternative to wings for those who are in the mood for something different. Some popular options include:
- Southwestern Black Bean Burger: A plant-based burger patty made from black beans, served with lettuce, tomato, and a spicy mayo.
- Brisket Tacos: Tender smoked brisket served in soft tortillas with a variety of toppings, offering a fusion of barbecue and Mexican flavors.
- Buffalo Ranch Chicken Sandwich: A crispy chicken sandwich topped with Buffalo sauce and ranch dressing, served on a soft bun.
These menu items offer a different take on the classic flavors of Buffalo Wild Wings, ensuring that there’s something for everyone, even those who may not be in the mood for wings.
Desserts
For those with a sweet tooth, Buffalo Wild Wings also offers a selection of desserts that are the perfect way to end your meal. Some of the most popular dessert options include:
- Chocolate Fudge Cake: A rich, decadent chocolate cake served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Cheesecake Bites: Bite-sized pieces of cheesecake that are fried and served with your choice of chocolate or caramel dipping sauce.
- Loaded Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream topped with chocolate, caramel, and candied pecans for a sweet and crunchy treat.
These desserts add a touch of indulgence to your meal, offering a sweet complement to the savory and spicy flavors of the wings.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many wings are in one serving at Buffalo Wild Wings?
- One serving typically consists of 8 traditional wings or 6 boneless wings, depending on what you order. However, this can vary based on the portion size you select, such as snack, small, medium, or large.
2. What’s the difference between boneless wings and traditional wings?
- Traditional wings are bone-in wings, typically fried and tossed in sauce or seasoning. Boneless wings, on the other hand, are breaded chicken breast pieces shaped like wings but without the bone.
3. Are dry rubs or sauces better for wings?
- It depends on your taste preference. Dry rubs add flavor without the messiness of sauce and often offer a different texture. Sauces are more popular for their bold, tangy, or spicy flavors, but they can be messier.
4. What is the spiciest sauce at Buffalo Wild Wings?
- The Blazin’ sauce is the spiciest option at Buffalo Wild Wings, made with ghost peppers and packing an extreme heat level.
5. Can you customize your wing order?
- Yes! At Buffalo Wild Wings, you can customize your wings by choosing from a wide variety of sauces and dry rubs, and you can mix and match flavors in a single order.
Conclusion
When it comes to one serving of Buffalo Wild Wings, there’s a lot more to consider. It’s not just the number of wings on your plate. From the type of wings you choose, to the sauces and dry rubs that flavor them, every aspect of your meal can be customized. You can tailor it to suit your preferences. Buffalo Wild Wings offers an experience that goes beyond just food. It’s about creating memories with friends. It’s also about enjoying the excitement of the game. Finally, it’s about indulging in flavors that satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional bone-in wings or prefer the convenience of boneless wings, Buffalo Wild Wings has something for everyone. So, the next time you sit down to enjoy a serving of wings, take a moment to appreciate the flavors. Also, appreciate the atmosphere and the tradition that have made Buffalo Wild Wings a beloved institution in American dining.