If you’re trying to lose weight, you may think that you have to give up all of your favorite foods—especially when it comes to fast food. However, while it’s true that there are many reasons to avoid fast food (including the health risks and the toll it can take on your wallet), there are healthy ways to replicate some of your favorite menu items right in your own home.
In a recent TikTok, Certified Personal Trainer and Nutrition Specialist MaKayla Thomas shared one of her go-to breakfasts she ate while losing 50 pounds post-partum: a high-protein breakfast burrito that’s both convenient and nutritious—and is a perfect Chick-fil-A dupe. She calls it a Hashbrown Scramble Burrito. Find all the details below.
@makayla_thomas_fit Just a quick, high protein, grab + go breakfast to keep us out the drive-thru this week besties (macros will depend on amounts YOU use, I didn’t measure anything so i cant say for sure what mine were) #highproteinmealprep #quickmeals #mealprep #breakfastmealprep #healthybreakfast #breakfastburrito ♬ Snooze X We Belong Together – Sped Up – lonely xo
Hashbrown Scramble Burrito Recipe and Benefits
Thomas’s breakfast burrito recipe consists of low-calorie tortillas, hash brown patties (a half patty for each burrito, mashed with a fork), scrambled egg whites, frozen chicken, and her favorite Chick-fil-A sauce (creamy salsa—although she says you can choose any sauce you prefer). She notes that this is a “high-protein meal prep breakfast.” Protein is essential for weight loss as it helps increase metabolism, reduce appetite, and preserve lean muscle mass. By starting the day with a protein-rich meal, you can feel fuller for longer, preventing overeating later in the day.
There are many upsides to this recipe when it comes to your health. Opting for low-calorie tortillas keeps the calorie count in check while still providing a source of carbohydrates for energy. Choosing whole grain or fiber-rich tortillas can also add extra nutrients and promote satiety.
Additionally, hash brown patties add a satisfying crunch to the breakfast burrito while contributing minimal calories when toasted. While they’re not the most nutrient-dense option, they can still fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
Egg whites are a lean source of protein that’s low in calories and fat. By using egg whites or egg beaters, you can boost the protein content of your breakfast burrito without adding excess cholesterol from yolks.
Adding chicken to the breakfast burrito further increases its protein content, supporting muscle repair and growth. Thomas uses RealGood Chicken, which boasts an impressive 23 grams of protein per serving, providing a convenient and flavorful option—but any lean chicken will work.
A creamy sauce may not be the healthiest option, but remember that sustainable weight loss is often about compromise, which means that adding your favorite sauce to your burrito isn't necessarily a no-no. However, choosing lower-calorie condiments is one good way to enhance the taste of your meals without sabotaging your weight loss efforts.
Plus, MaKayla's breakfast burrito is not only high in protein but also designed for convenience. By prepping these burritos ahead of time and storing them in paper towels and foil, you have a quick and easy breakfast option that can prevent impulsive drive-thru stops—and keep you from reaching for fattening processed breakfasts. Planning and preparing your meals in advance can help you stay on track with your weight loss goals and make healthier choices throughout the day.
All in all, MaKayla Thomas's high-protein breakfast burrito is a testament to the power of nutritious meal prep in achieving weight loss success. By incorporating lean protein, whole grains, and flavorful toppings into a convenient grab-and-go option, you can fuel your body for the day ahead while keeping cravings at bay. With a bit of planning and creativity, you too can enjoy delicious, satisfying meals that support your health and fitness journey.
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