The phrase 'healthy fast food' might sound like a joke to you, but we're not kidding! When you're eating healthy, it only makes sense that you’d want to spend your cheat day enjoying some Starbucks. But you don’t want to totally spoil your streak of good habits, right? Fast food isn’t the best when it comes to fresh ingredients and nutrients, but sometimes you just need to indulge, or need something quick to fuel you up when you're on the road. When you find yourself facing the drive-thru line, here’s a list of options from your go-to fast food joints to make sure your treat yourself day is at least kind of healthy.
Chipotle Burrito Bowl
You can order a burrito bowl to save on carbs and calories, but just because your meal is resting on a bed of lettuce instead of a tortilla, doesn’t automatically make it good for you. The cheese and sour cream are where the calories really add up at Chipotle, so load up on extra veggies instead of dairy (or let the guac be your indulgent ingredient instead.) You can also give yourself an extra serving of protein by asking for a scoop of black or pinto beans. If you don't feel like dropping money on dining out, you can DIY your own burrito bowl!
McDonald's Egg McMuffin
If you just have to make a stop at McDonald's, opt for the Egg McMuffin. You can def order it without meat if you're going the vegetarian route, or keep it on the sammie for a more protein-filled meal.
Dunkin' Wake-Up Wrap
We know how tempting it is to grab some donuts when you're in need of a morning pick me up, but consider ordering this Wake-Up Wrap from Dunkin' instead. It's 180 calories per serving, and delivers 7g of protein to kickstart your day. You can customize your choice of egg, cheese, and protein to make sure this is a breakfast that best fits your morning!
Dairy Queen Kid's Cone
When you just need something sweet, the Dairy Queen Kid's Cone can deliver a nice treat to your sweet tooth while only being 160 calories.
Subway Turkey Breast Sandwich
Subway is a great healthy option when dining out. You can customize your sammie with fistfuls of vegetables, and leave feeling great. Go with the turkey breast on a six-inch wheat bread, then feel free to go crazy with the veggies. Be careful about adding too many sauces or cheeses, though.
Plain Shake Shack Single Hamburger
Surprisingly, Shake Shack’s vegetarian option, the ‘Shroom Burger, is not the healthiest option on the menu. You’re better off having a standard Hamburger (note: not the ShackBurger, which comes with cheese and special sauce). It’s higher in fat than your standard ground beef patty, but still isn't terrible. Plus, it’s a good source of protein and lower on carbs, and you have the option of adding fresh lettuce, tomato and pickles.
Taco Bell Power Bowl
Taco Bell is another restaurant where you have to be careful about high salt intake (the potential sodium you could rack up in one meal is nuts). But this Power Bowl is one of few items on the Taco Bell menu that doesn’t far exceed the sodium level recommended by nutritionists. Plus, you'll get a hefty serving of protein that can fill you up!
Starbucks Egg White & Red Pepper Egg Bites
We could order these egg bites every day, if we really wanted to. They're a delicious breakfast option that are only 170 calories for both bites. If you are looking for some extra flavor, order a Sriracha packet alongside your bites and you've got yourself a healthy fast food meal!
Papa John's Garden Fresh Pizza
Hey, at least you’re getting some greens in with all that cheese! Two slices of this Papa John's vegetarian pie is sure to leave you satisfied, though we won't judge if you sneak in another slice.
Wendy's Avocado Chicken Salad
Wendy's always keeps it fresh, and this salad is no exception. In just 485 calories, you can load up on a protein-filled bite when you need something healthy on the go.
Starbucks Eggs & Cheddar Protein Box
If you’re getting anything fancier than a latte at Starbucks, chances are your coffee order is giving you way more than enough sugar already. So, if you’re craving a snack to go with it, avoid the temptation of those sweet pastries (mmm, cake pops), and fill up on this neat little package of fruit, cheese and hard-boiled eggs instead.
Chick-Fil-A Grilled Chicken Nuggets
We know that Chick-Fil-A is known for their delicious fried chicken and waffle fries, so if you're craving their classic meal, consider swapping your regular nuggets for their grilled ones. They don't have as much grease or carbs that the regular nuggets do, and don't worry: you can still order Polynesian sauce!
Panera Turkey Chili
This chili soup is perfect for a healthy winter meal, and is packed full of veggies and antibiotic-free turkey that will give you a great amount of protein. Hey, for only 300 calories a bowl, we've got to applaud Panera.
Starbucks Spinach Feta Wrap
If you're more of a protein-forward eater, the Starbucks Spinach Feta Wrap is a great option for breakfast, lunch, or just a simple quick snack! For 290 calories, this handheld wrap carries 20g of protein that will keep you powered throughout the morning, day, or evening.
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This post has been updated.
