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When you're craving quick and easy Tex-Mex food in a casual environment, there's no better restaurant than Chili's Bar & Grill, which has franchises across the United States. I won't even get into their cocktail menu, which is crazy fun and delicious, or touch upon the art that is their fried pickle appetizer — because most of us are well-versed in Chili's yummy selection. But if you want to know which food you might want to stay away from, especially if calories are a concern, here's what one Chili's employee had to say.
Photos: Shutterstock/Chili's/Facebook
The One Food You Should Never Order At Chili's
Chicken and waffles are a heavenly combination. And Chili's certainly doesn't simplify their version of the meal, called Honey Chipotle Crispers & Waffles: it consists of chicken crispers served over Belgian waffles and topped with bacon, jalapenos, and ancho-chili ranch sauce. And, wait, we're not finished — you'll also get fries and honey-chipotle sauce on the side with that.
"It's the most delicious — I mean, insanely delicious — meal on the menu," says one Chili's employee. "But here's what happens when you start eating it: you can't stop. And because the crispers are separated you never know how much you're supposed to eat, so you keep eating them and eating them."
When you find out the calorie count per serving, you''ll understand why this is a concern.
Crispers & Waffles: Nutritional Content
So, here's the bad news if you're one of countless Chili's fans who can't get enough of its Honey-Chipotle Crispers & Waffles meal: it contains an obscene number of calories — 2.450 per serving, to be exact. The average woman needs about 2,000 calories per day to maintain her weight, which means this meal should probably be regarded as an occasional treat if you're concerned about your weight.
Unfortunately, the sodium, fat, and sugar content in this meal isn't any better. One serving contains 5,720 mg of sodium, 123 grams of fat (39 of which are saturated), and 113 grams of sugar (it is recommended that women consume no more than 25 grams of added sugar per day).
The Bottom Line: Indulge In High Calorie Foods Only On Occasion
Even if it came as zero surprise that one of Chili's most tempting dishes is also one high in calories, we'd never want to suggest that you deny yourself something so delicious. A better way to look at this meal is as one that's safe to indulge in on occasion. Make a plan to split the crispers, waffles, and fries with a friend, enjoy every bite, and try to eat light the rest of the day. A once-in-a-while treat may keep you satisfied and happy — and Chili's menu is certainly packed with tasty options.
