Buffalo Wild Wings are a popular appetizer item that can be kept in the fridge for later enjoyment. However, there is some confusion around exactly how long Buffalo Wild Wings will stay fresh and safe to eat when refrigerated. This article will provide a detailed look at how long Buffalo Wild Wings will last in the refrigerator.
How Long Do Buffalo Wild Wings Last in the Fridge?
The exact shelf life of Buffalo Wild Wings depends on a few factors:
- Were the wings cooked or raw?
- Were the wings sauced or unsauced?
- Are the wings whole or have they been separated into drums and flats?
Taking these factors into account, here are some general guidelines for how long Buffalo Wild Wings will stay good in the fridge:
| Type of Wings | Refrigerator Life |
|---|---|
| Cooked, sauced wings | 3-4 days |
| Cooked, unsauced wings | 4-5 days |
| Raw wings | 1-2 days |
As you can see, cooked wings that have been sauced will keep for the shortest amount of time. The moisture from the sauce makes them more prone to spoiling. Raw wings should be eaten within 1-2 days of refrigerating. Leftover cooked, unsauced wings have the longest shelf life at 4-5 days.
How to Tell if Refrigerated Buffalo Wild Wings are Bad
The best way to tell if refrigerated Buffalo Wild Wings have gone bad is to closely inspect them. Here are some signs that wings are past their prime and should be discarded:
- Slimy texture
- Mold growth
- Off putting sour or ammonia-like smell
- Discoloration
Trust your senses – if wings smell, look or feel off, do not eat them. Discard immediately.
How to Store Buffalo Wild Wings for Maximum Freshness
Proper storage is key to maximizing the shelf life of refrigerated Buffalo Wild Wings. Here are some tips:
- Refrigerate wings as soon as possible after getting them from the restaurant. Do not leave them out at room temperature.
- Place wings in a container or sealed bag before refrigerating. Do not just place them on a plate.
- Make sure wings are not stacked or piled on top of each other. This prevents air circulation.
- Sauced wings should be stored in an airtight container separate from unsauced wings.
With proper refrigeration and storage, cooked Buffalo Wild Wings can safely last for 3-5 days. Be sure to follow the storage tips above.
Can You Freeze Buffalo Wild Wings?
Yes, freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of Buffalo Wild Wings significantly. Here are some tips for freezing wings:
- Let cooked wings cool completely before freezing.
- Place wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 2 hours.
- Transfer frozen wings to a freezer bag or airtight container.
- Sauced wings can be frozen but may lose some texture. Best to freeze unsauced.
- Label package with date and contents.
- Frozen wings will keep for 2-3 months in the freezer.
To thaw frozen wings, place in the refrigerator overnight. Do not thaw at room temperature. Refrigerate thawed wings and use within 3-4 days.
Can Buffalo Wild Wings Be Reheated?
Yes, Buffalo Wild Wings can be safely reheated. However, they may lose some texture and moisture when reheated. Here are some tips for reheating:
- Use an oven or air fryer to reheat. Microwaves tend to make the wings rubbery.
- Place wings on a baking sheet and reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes if using an oven.
- Do not reheat more than once. Only reheat what you plan to eat immediately.
- Discard any wings that have been reheated when they start to smell or look off.
- Consume reheated wings within 3 days.
Properly stored wings that are still within their prime can be safely reheated and enjoyed. But wings that are past their prime should be discarded.
Common Questions
Can I refrigerate Buffalo Wild Wings in the takeout container?
It’s best to transfer leftover takeout wings to an airtight storage container or sealed bag before refrigerating. The takeout containers are not air tight and can compromise freshness.
How long can I store sauced vs. unsauced wings?
Unsauced wings will last a bit longer, around 4-5 days in the fridge. Sauced wings are best if eaten within 3-4 days.
What are the signs of spoiled Buffalo Wild Wings?
Signs that refrigerated wings have gone bad include slimy texture, foul odors, mold, and discoloration. If in doubt, throw it out.
Can I freeze cooked wings without saucing them?
Yes, freezing cooked plain wings is fine. Make sure to let them cool fully before freezing. Frozen plain wings will keep for 2-3 months.
Is there a difference between flats and drums when freezing?
There is no major difference in how flats and drums freeze. Both should be frozen in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag or container. Follow standard freezing guidelines for either flats, drums or whole wings.
The Bottom Line
When stored properly in the refrigerator, Buffalo Wild Wings can safely last for 3-5 days. Freeze wings for longer term storage. Cooked, sauced wings have the shortest fridge life at 3-4 days. Follow the storage, freezing and reheating guidelines outlined and your wings will stay fresh. Discard if you notice any odd textures, smells or colors.