Eating on the go doesn’t have to mean unhealthy choices. Thankfully, many fast food chains now offer healthier options that keep calories, sodium, and fat in check. Here are the best healthy fast food meals that satisfy cravings without the extra guilt.
8 Healthy Fast Food Options
1. Dunkin’: Wake-Up Wrap
The Dunkin’ Wake-Up Wrap is a light choice for a quick breakfast or snack. With just 180 calories, this wrap provides 7 grams of protein and keeps carbs low. Opting for the veggie version reduces the fat and sodium content even more. Pair it with a side of fruit for a balanced, filling meal that will curb hunger until your next meal.
2. Starbucks: Tomato & Mozzarella Focaccia
Starbucks’ Tomato & Mozzarella Focaccia is a solid vegetarian option. Made with mozzarella, roasted tomatoes, basil pesto, and spinach, this sandwich has just two grams of sugar and 360 calories. The balance of carbs, protein, and veggies makes it filling. Adding a side of fruit, like an apple, enhances the fiber content for a more complete meal.
3. Panera Bread: Strawberry Poppyseed Salad with Chicken
Panera’s Strawberry Poppyseed Salad with Chicken combines fresh veggies, mandarin oranges, strawberries, and blueberries for a nutrient-rich meal. It’s filling enough for lunch or dinner, with only 350 calories, 23 grams of protein, and eight grams of fiber. The protein and fiber combo provides lasting satiety without piling on unnecessary calories or fats.
4. Subway’s 6-Inch Veggie Delite Sandwich
Packed with fresh veggies like spinach, tomatoes, and cucumbers, Subway’s 6-inch Veggie Delite sandwich is a nutritious choice. Multigrain bread keeps calories low, and the whole sandwich contains just 210 calories, three grams of fat, and 10 grams of fiber. It’s an ideal fiber-rich option that can be easily customized by adding more vegetables and skipping high-calorie toppings.
5. Burger King: Impossible Whopper
The Impossible Whopper is a solid plant-based option for those craving a burger. Although it has 630 calories, similar to a traditional Whopper, it offers less saturated fat. With a manageable 1,350 milligrams of sodium, it’s not exactly “health food,” but it’s a more responsible choice for a fast-food burger. Enjoy it when you’re in the mood for a treat without the guilt.
6. Taco Bell: Soft Taco Supreme
The Soft Taco Supreme is highly customizable, making it easy to create a healthier version. Opt for grilled chicken over ground beef to reduce fat, and add black beans for extra fiber and guacamole for healthy fats. Add more veggies like tomatoes and lettuce for additional nutrients. A single taco is just 285 calories, with 3.5 grams of saturated fat and 290 milligrams of sodium, which is relatively low for fast food.
7. Chipotle: Burrito Bowl
Chipotle’s Burrito Bowls offers endless customization for various dietary needs. The high-protein bowl, made with double chicken, rice, black beans, cheese, and salsa, packs 82 grams of protein. With fiber from beans and brown rice, it’s a filling choice for those needing sustained energy. Add extras like fresh salsa and guacamole for more flavor and a satisfying, veggie-packed meal.
8. Chick-fil-A: Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Chick-fil-A’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich is a lighter, protein-rich option with 390 calories and 28 grams of protein. The multigrain brioche bun, paired with grilled chicken, lettuce, tomato, and a touch of honey-roasted BBQ sauce, keeps fat and sodium manageable. To reduce carbs, swap the bun for a lettuce wrap. This sandwich has 770 milligrams of sodium, much lower than other options on the Chick-fil-A menu.