Hey there, friend!
Are you always on the run and in need of a quick bite? Same here! That’s why I’ve compiled a list of my top fast-food restaurants that are perfect for a grab-and-go meal. Sometimes you just gotta make do with what’s available, am I right? 🙂
Just because we’re on the go doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice our health goals. It can be tempting to just grab whatever is quick and easy, but keeping some key components in mind can make all the difference in how you feel. And let’s be real, we don’t want to miss out on the delicious local eats either!
For me, that means looking for options that have a good balance of protein, fiber, and a pop of color from fruits or veggies. That way, I’m getting all the nutrients I need to keep me feeling full and energized for hours.
Protein
Not only does it help build and maintain muscle mass, which is especially important if your workout routine is disrupted while traveling, but it can also help keep you feeling full and satisfied. And who doesn’t want that?
Fiber
Fiber helps slow down digestion and keeps you feeling fuller for longer. Plus, it has the added benefit of helping to lower cholesterol.
Fruits and Veggies
And don’t forget to add a pop of color to your plate! The vitamins and minerals in colorful fruits and veggies can help you feel your best and even boost your immune system to ward off any potential travel-related illnesses.
Personally, I’ve spent years scouting out the best fast-food options for when I’m on the go. It’s all about finding those go-to joints that offer healthier options and keeping these essential components in mind when making your selections. Trust me, your body will thank you!
Check out my go-to spots when I need something quick, tasty, and convenient.
Check out my favorites below!Â
Chipotle
Typically, I build my own bowl, but if you want to order something straight from the menu, I’d opt for:
- Wholesome Bowl (460 calories, 35 g protein)
- Wholesome Bowl with Carne Asada (530 calories, 32 g protein).
- You can also get a kid’s meal that includes two tacos with a drink and fruit or chips!
Chipotle has an awesome website where you can customize your meal and it tells you the calorie and macro breakdown.
My go-to burrito bowl includes grilled chicken, no rice, light black beans, romaine lettuce, cheese, fresh tomato salsa, fajita veggies, and a side of sour cream. Based on their online calorie calculator, this comes out to 515 calories and 45 grams of protein.
Chick-Fil-A
Next, we have Chick-fil-A. Not only do they have the best chicken sandwiches, but their customer service is top-notch. You can always count on a friendly “my pleasure” from the employees. Plus, their waffle fries are out of this world.
Chick-fil-A is my holy grail. I. LOVE. IT. My favorite high-protein breakfast option is the egg white grill (300 calories, 28 g protein). Add a fruit cup for that pop of color and extra fiber and you’ve got a yummy breakfast for just 330 calories!
For lunch/dinner, you can mix and match. The grilled chicken sandwich with a fruit cup or side salad would be a great option. Or if you’re feeling some french fries, opt for the grilled chicken nuggets and a small fry. Get that fruit cup or salad in there because you need those fruits and veggies, girl!! 😉
Taco Bell
Next, we have Taco Bell. Now, I know some people turn their noses up at this fast food joint, but hear me out. Their menu is full of tasty options that won’t break the bank, and their hot sauce packets are a game-changer. Plus, who doesn’t love a good late-night Taco Bell run?
A calorie-friendly option here would be the Chicken Power Bowl. This has 460 calories and 26 grams of protein!
Starbucks
Starbies is my second OG. I really just go here for breakfast but some of my favorite options are:
- Turkey Bacon, Cheddar, and Egg White Sandwich (230 calories, 17 g protein)
- Egg White Bites (Kale and Mushroom – 230 calories, 15 g protein; Roasted Red Pepper – 170 calories, 12 g protein) – *vegetarian*
- Spinach, Feta, and Egg White Wrap (290 calories, 20 g protein) –Â *vegetarian*
Now onto coffee….be careful here, babe. The calories in your favorite seasonal latte can add up quickly so here are a few tips and tricks to cut back on cals.
- Decrease the size of your drink. Opt for a grande or tall vs a Venti or Trenta
- Ask for your drink “half sweet”
- Get a black coffee and add your own syrups (i.e. grande iced coffee with 2 pumps white mocha and 1 pump hazelnut, with a splash of cream)
Wanna keep it simple and order straight from the menu with no subs? I’ve got you.
- Grande Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew (110 calories)
- Grande Iced Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso (120 calories)
- Grande Iced Chocolate Almond Milk Shaken Espresso (110 calories)
- Tall Caramel Macchiato (190 calories)
- Tall Honey Almondmilk Flatwhite (120 calories)
And it goes without saying – get whatever TF you want! These are obviously just more calorie-friendly options if your heart desires 🙂
Subway
You can find a Subway just about anywhere and they actually have a ton of healthy options!
For a more calorie-friendly option, stick to the 6″ options. Here are some of my favs
- Sweet onion chicken teriyaki (350 calories)Â
- Oven-roasted turkey (270 calories)Â
- Buffalo Chicken (380 calories)
- Roast Beef (310 calories)
*Bonus* McDonald’s
I know, I know, it’s a classic, but hear me out. Their breakfast menu is unbeatable, and their fries are always crispy and delicious. Plus, you can find a McDonald’s pretty much anywhere in the world, which is a major plus when you’re traveling.
Although I opt for the other restaurants on this list most of the time, don’t sleep on McDonald’s. They’re literally everywhere and you can actually find decent options here. Ask for a McDouble with a side of apple slices. 415 calories, 22 g protein. Yes, ma’am.
With a little extra planning, it IS possible to make healthier choices on the road. And let me tell you, the more you do it, the easier it gets. Soon enough, you’ll be able to drive up to some random place and know how to order a balanced meal without having to put too much thought into it. These are my staple fast food restaurants on the go. Give them a try and let me know what you think!
It just takes practice!
I know I’m always on the lookout for restaurants that offer calorie-friendly options, so I’m curious to hear your thoughts. Are there any particular places you’d love to see featured here? Let me know – I’m all ears!
XO, Mel
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