In recent years, foodservice operators have had to get creative to stay profitable. But sometimes, the smartest way to “think outside the box” is to consider what goes inside the box—your to-go box, that is.
As off-premise dining, contactless carryout, and delivery continue to dominate since the 2020 pandemic, many Broaster trademarked and private-label operators are expanding their menus with portable, profitable items. One standout example is Fazoli’s, the popular Italian fast-casual chain, which partnered with Broaster to introduce chicken wings using Broaster Ventless Fryers.
And the results speak for themselves.
Why Restaurants Are Adding Chicken Wings to Their Menus
When it comes to increasing year-over-year revenue, foodservice operators generally have three options:
1. Raise Prices
A gradual price increase can improve average ticket value—but only to the point customers remain willing to pay.
2. Increase Add-Ons
Suggestive selling, loyalty programs, and easy add-on items encourage higher spend per customer.
3. Grow Transactions
Offering new and unexpected menu items can attract fresh interest, more orders, and repeat visits.
Adding bone-in or boneless chicken wings supports all three strategies. Wings are a natural upsell, a crowd-pleaser, and a popular option for carryout and delivery—making them an ideal addition to any menu.
The Rising Demand for Chicken Wings
If wings aren’t already part of your concept, you may not realize how much you’re missing. Consider:
- Chicken is the most consumed protein in the U.S.
- Consumption rises every year
- Americans eat an estimated 18,000 wings in their lifetime (NY Post)
On top of that, COVID-19 accelerated the shift from dine-in to off-premise dining, creating major demand for foods that travel well—like wings.
Fazoli’s recognized this opportunity. “Even though we are an Italian brand, we wanted to innovate and give guests something they’d never expect,” says Rick Petralia, Fazoli’s Director of Culinary Innovation. “The new equipment opens up even more opportunities to enhance our menu.”
How to Add Chicken Wings to Your Menu Successfully
Introducing a new category like chicken wings comes with big questions. But after 65+ years of helping operators optimize their kitchens, Broaster has the answers.
Here are the three biggest challenges—and how Broaster solves them.
1. What Equipment Do I Need to Cook Chicken Wings?
To deliver high-quality wings consistently, you need a reliable fryer. Fazoli’s required a turnkey frying solution with:
- High output
- Consistent results
- Compatibility with current kitchen setup
- Flexibility for future menu items
Broaster offers a full line of premium pressure fryers and commercial kitchen equipment—but ventless technology was the perfect fit for Fazoli’s goals.
2. How Do I Fit New Equipment Into My Kitchen Layout?
Fazoli’s didn’t have hood space for another major appliance. That’s where the Broaster VF-3 Ventless Countertop Fryer came in.
Why Ventless Makes Sense:
- No hood or ventilation required
- Compact footprint fits almost any counter
- Easy plug-and-play installation (just the right electrical outlet)
- Ideal for kitchens with fixed layouts or limited space
With ventless technology, operators can introduce high-value fried items without costly remodels.
3. How Will New Menu Items Impact My Supply Chain?
Becoming a Broaster operator means you gain access to:
- Menu planning support
- Custom seasoning and coating development
- Product sourcing assistance
- On-site equipment training
- Ongoing operator support
Whether you’re adding wings to an Italian restaurant, pizzeria, bar, or other non-traditional concept, Broaster ensures the rollout is seamless.
The Results: How Fazoli’s Increased Sales With Chicken Wings
After several months of field testing at select locations, Fazoli’s saw impressive results:
- Chicken wings rolled out system-wide
- Trial locations added several thousand dollars per week
- Overall sales increased 10%+ during initial launch
- Wings became a top add-on and carryout favorite
With consumer expectations shifting toward portable, flavorful, delivery-friendly foods, ventless frying helped Fazoli’s meet demand without disrupting operations.
Is Adding Chicken Wings Right for Your Restaurant?
If you’re exploring new ways to grow revenue, improve off-premise performance, or expand your menu without expanding your kitchen, Broaster Ventless Fryers offer a powerful solution.
- Compact
- Versatile
- Easy to install
- Perfect for wings, tenders, appetizers, and future menu innovations
Ready to Explore Ventless Fryers or Add-On Menu Opportunities?
Broaster helps restaurants of all types grow with innovative equipment, expert support, and proven programs that drive sales.
Want to learn how ventless technology can work for your restaurant?
Contact Broaster today!