Maintaining a healthy diet can be challenging, especially when you’re on the go and surrounded by tempting fast food options. However, eating on the run doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your health goals. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, build muscle, or simply make smarter food choices, there are plenty of low-calorie, high-protein fast food meals that can satisfy your cravings without derailing your diet. Below, we’ll explore some of the best fast food options that are both delicious and nutritious, helping you stay on track, no matter where your busy day takes you.
1. Egg McMuffin
17 grams of protein for just 310 calories? That's not bad at all! Although McDonald's typically isn't seen as the healthiest place to grab food, this is one smart choice to order from the menu. It's no secret that eggs are one of the healthiest breakfast foods around, and when you add some Canadian bacon and cheese to the mix, this sandwich isn't only delicious, but it's not a bad way to start your day, either.
2. Wendy's Grilled Chicken Ranch Wrap
Speaking of great sources of protein, grilled chicken is another fantastic lean protein option that should be on your radar. While we most commonly associate fast-food restaurants with fried, greasy sandwiches, a grilled chicken wrap can be one good way to go if you're aiming to lose weight. Packing in 27 grams of protein, it'll only add 420 calories to your daily intake—which is pretty good for a fast food meal.
3. Burger King Chicken Philly Royal Crispy Wrap
Does that mean you have to avoid fried chicken altogether? While it is best to stick to grilled varieties whenever possible, sometimes a crispy wrap is calling your name, and we can't blame you for that. When the craving strikes, we suggest opting for this Chicken Philly Royal Crispy Wrap from Burger King, which, believe it or not, comes up to just 360 calories. While the 15 grams of protein may be a little less than ideal, it's likely enough to tide you over til your next meal if you're feeling peckish.
4. Chick-fil-A Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Attention, Chick-fil-A lovers! This beloved chicken spot actually has some of the healthiest options in the fast food game. While health experts suggest opting for one of their healthy salads (like the Market Salad), a grilled chicken sandwich is also a great choice. Chick-fil-A's Grilled Chicken Sandwich will add 25 grams of protein to your day for just 390 calories. It includes tasty lettuce and tomato on a multi-grain bun.
5. McDouble
We tend to think of fast food cheeseburgers as ultra-fattening and high-calorie, which is why it may be surprising to learn that a McDouble from McDonald's is 400 calories. The two beef patties load the sandwich with 22 grams of protein, making this one of the best McD's choices for those looking to get as much protein as possible without loading up on excessive calories.
6. Chick-fil-A Egg White Grill
Here's another great Chick-fil-A menu item! If you're pulling up to the drive-thru for breakfast, we suggest opting for the Egg White Grill. This sandwich includes egg whites, chicken breast, and a slice of cheese, all on an English muffin. For a mere 310 calories, 17 grams of protein isn't a bad way to start your day at all!
