If you are health conscious as I am, I am sure that you check the number of calories in most of the foods you eat, this is the reason why in this post I will share the 15 best high protein low calorie fast food meals so that you can make a smart choice.
15 Best High Protein Low Calorie Fast Food Meals
Fast food is often seen as an unhealthy choice, but with a bit of knowledge, you can find options that fit into a high-protein, low-calorie diet.
Whether you’re on the go or simply craving something quick, here are some of the best high-protein, low-calorie fast food meals.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich (Chick-fil-A)
Protein: 28 grams
Calories: 320 calories
Why It’s Good
Chick-fil-A’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich is a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying fast food.
The grilled chicken is high in protein and low in fat, making it an excellent source of lean protein.
The sandwich is also served on a multigrain bun, which adds fiber to your meal without adding too many extra calories.
It’s a simple, tasty, and satisfying option that will keep you full without breaking your calorie bank.
Egg White Delight McMuffin (McDonald’s)
Protein: 18 grams
Calories: 260 calories
Why It’s Good
The Egg White Delight McMuffin is a lighter version of the classic Egg McMuffin, substituting egg whites for the whole egg and using a leaner Canadian bacon.
This sandwich is a good source of protein and is relatively low in calories, making it an ideal breakfast choice.
It’s also made with a whole-grain English muffin, which adds a bit of fiber, helping you feel fuller for longer.
Grilled Nuggets (8-count) (Chick-fil-A)
Protein: 25 grams
Calories: 140 calories
Why It’s Good
Chick-fil-A’s Grilled Nuggets are an excellent high-protein, low-calorie option for those who want something quick and easy.
These nuggets are made with lean grilled chicken, providing substantial protein without the extra calories that come with breading and frying.
Pair them with a side salad or a fruit cup for a well-rounded meal.
Power Menu Bowl – Chicken (Taco Bell)
Protein: 27 grams
Calories: 450 calories
Why It’s Good
The Power Menu Bowl from Taco Bell is a surprisingly healthy option for a fast food meal. It includes grilled chicken, black beans, rice, lettuce, guacamole, and pico de gallo.
While it’s slightly higher in calories compared to other options on this list, it’s packed with protein and fiber, which can keep you full and satisfied.
You can customize it by asking for less rice or skipping the cheese to reduce the calorie count further.
Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich (McDonald’s)
Protein: 37 grams
Calories: 380 calories
Why It’s Good
The Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich is one of the healthier options on McDonald’s menu.
It features a grilled chicken breast fillet on a toasted artisan roll, along with fresh tomato slices and leafy greens.
With a high protein content and moderate calories, it’s a solid choice for a balanced meal on the go.
Turkey Tom Unwich (Jimmy John’s)
Protein: 26 grams
Calories: 270 calories
Why It’s Good
The Turkey Tom Unwich from Jimmy John’s is a low-calorie, high-protein option perfect for those looking to cut carbs.
This sandwich is wrapped in lettuce instead of bread, which significantly reduces the calorie count while still delivering a good amount of protein from the turkey. It’s a fresh, light option that’s perfect for a quick lunch.
Protein-Style Burger (In-N-Out)
Protein: 13 grams (Single), 21 grams (Double)
Calories: 240 calories (Single), 330 calories (Double)
Why It’s Good
The Protein-Style Burger from In-N-Out is a great way to enjoy a classic burger without the extra calories from the bun.
By wrapping the burger in lettuce, you cut down on carbs and calories while still getting a satisfying amount of protein from the beef patty.
Opt for the double if you want more protein, but be mindful of the calorie increase.
Greek Yogurt Parfait (Starbucks)
Protein: 14 grams
Calories: 240 calories
Why It’s Good
The Greek Yogurt Parfait at Starbucks is a delicious and nutritious option for breakfast or a snack.
It’s made with high-protein Greek yogurt, fresh berries, and a bit of honey for sweetness.
This parfait is high in protein and contains probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.
Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad (McDonald’s)
Protein: 37 grams
Calories: 350 calories
Why It’s Good
The Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad from McDonald’s is one of the healthiest options on their menu.
It’s packed with grilled chicken, fresh greens, corn, beans, and tomatoes, all topped with a zesty Southwest dressing.
It’s high in protein and low in calories, making it a great choice for a filling and nutritious meal.
6-inch Turkey Breast Sandwich (Subway)
Protein: 18 grams
Calories: 280 calories
Why It’s Good
The 6-inch Turkey Breast Sandwich from Subway is a low-calorie, high-protein option that’s perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Turkey is a lean source of protein, and when combined with fresh veggies on whole-grain bread, it makes for a well-balanced and satisfying sandwich.
Customize it with extra veggies and skip the mayo to keep it light and nutritious.
Grilled Chicken Cool Wrap (Chick-fil-A)
Protein: 42 grams
Calories: 350 calories
Why It’s Good
The Grilled Chicken Cool Wrap from Chick-fil-A is a protein-packed option that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
It’s made with sliced grilled chicken breast, fresh lettuce, shredded cheese, and flaxseed flour flatbread.
This wrap is high in protein and moderate in calories, making it an excellent choice for a quick and healthy lunch.
Double Chicken Avocado Salad (El Pollo Loco)
Protein: 45 grams
Calories: 370 calories
Why It’s Good
The Double Chicken Avocado Salad from El Pollo Loco is a fantastic high-protein, low-calorie option.
It’s loaded with double the amount of grilled chicken, avocado, and fresh veggies, making it both filling and nutritious.
The avocado adds healthy fats, which can help keep you satisfied, while the grilled chicken provides a substantial amount of lean protein.
Blackened Chicken Sandwich (Popeyes)
Protein: 32 grams
Calories: 310 calories
Why It’s Good
Popeyes’ Blackened Chicken Sandwich is a lighter alternative to their famous fried chicken options.
The chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices and grilled instead of fried, which cuts down on calories while still delivering a good amount of protein.
It’s a flavorful and satisfying option for those looking to stay on track with their diet.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich (Wendy’s)
Protein: 34 grams
Calories: 350 calories
Why It’s Good
Wendy’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich is another great high-protein, low-calorie option.
The sandwich features a juicy grilled chicken breast, lettuce, and tomato on a toasted bun.
It’s simple, tasty, and provides a good balance of protein and calories for a satisfying meal.
Baja Chicken Bowl (Panera Bread)
Protein: 31 grams
Calories: 330 calories
Why It’s Good
The Baja Chicken Bowl from Panera Bread is a flavorful and nutritious option that’s packed with protein.
It includes grilled chicken, black bean and corn salsa, avocado, and a mix of greens, all topped with a Greek yogurt dressing.
This bowl is high in protein and low in calories, making it a perfect choice for a healthy and filling meal.
Prepare your high protein low-calorie food at home
If you do not like to eat fast food, you can prepare your meals at home, here are the recipes and how you can prepare them.
Key Takeaways: 15 Best High Protein Low Calorie Fast Food Meals
Eating healthy doesn’t mean you have to avoid fast food altogether. By making informed choices, you can enjoy a meal that’s both delicious and nutritious, even when you’re on the go.
The high-protein, low-calorie options listed above are not only convenient but also provide the nutrients you need to maintain a balanced diet.
Whether you’re grabbing breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these meals can help you stay on track with your fitness goals without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.
When choosing fast food, always keep an eye on portion sizes, condiments, and extra toppings, as these can quickly add calories and reduce the overall health benefits of your meal.
Pairing your fast food choices with water or unsweetened beverages instead of sugary drinks can further enhance your meal’s nutritional value.
So the next time you find yourself in need of a quick bite, remember that it’s possible to make choices that support your health and fitness goals.
By opting for these high-protein, low-calorie fast food meals, you can enjoy the convenience of fast food while still fueling your body with the nutrients it needs.