Americans tend to eat out as frequently as possible. Eateries and restaurants tend to grow more quickly, which is very common. Fast food is therefore common in this country. It is highly justified that fast food has a reputation for being high in carbohydrates, sugar, and saturated fat. As more consumers choose plant-based diets and the market for vegan and vegetarian substitutes grows, the fast food chains presently in operation should undoubtedly offer more health-conscious dishes. Finding a restaurant that caters to their requirements and knows what to order can take time and effort for the health-conscious population. Not to fear, we have you covered! Let’s investigate the top healthiest fast food restaurants in the United States.
12 Top Healthiest Fast Food Restaurants And Chains
1. Sweetgreen
While Sweetgreen may not be frequently featured on highway signs, its presence in 21 states ensures it is widely accessible in specific regions. Warm dishes made with wild rice or quinoa and salads made with kale, romaine lettuce, arugula, or spinach are available at This Healthiest Fast Food Chain. A choice of fifteen condiments or sauces, nuts, seeds, beans, and a diverse range of vegetables and proteins are available as toppings. Choose between constructing your dish or selecting from the brand’s pre-made menu options.
2. Chipotle
Famous for its burritos and tacos is the restaurant chain Chipotle Mexican Grill. The restaurant makes every effort to use organic, locally derived ingredients and meats raised naturally. Chipotle can cater to various dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, lacto-vegetarian, vegan, plant-based, keto, gluten-free, and carnivore. Since they also allow you to sample various food ingredients to your liking, you have complete control over the amount of calories, fats, proteins, carbohydrates, and sodium in your food. Additionally, particular ingredients can contribute to preparing a healthier meal than others.
3. Taco Bell
As one of the healthiest fast food chains in recent years, Taco Bell has established itself as an industry leader by diligently providing customizable menu options for health-conscious customers. The food options on their revised menu now accommodate gluten-free, vegetarian, and low-calorie diets. There are fewer than 500 calories in more than 75% of their menu options. Taco Bell’s rice and black beans portion is the healthiest side dish. Individuals following a vegan diet may enjoy this dish with a bean burrito that omits the sour cream and cheese.
4. Chick-fil-A
Healthiest Fast Food Restaurant Chain Chick-fil-A is famous for its chicken sandwiches. They first introduced a menu devoid of any trans fats into the fast food industry in the United States. They have made many efforts to increase the nutritional value of their dishes. Undoubtedly, fruit bowls and milk are included in their children’s menu. If you’re searching for a healthier meal, keep in mind that the condiments and sauces offered at this restaurant can significantly change the nutritional value of the food. A serving of the traditional sauce offered by Chick-fil-A reveals that it comprises 140 calories and 13 grams of fat. As opposed to this, the Zesty Buffalo sauce is 25 calories per serving.
5. Wendy’s
Wendy’s is the third largest chain of fast food restaurants in the world that specializes in hamburgers. Although most of their menu consists of hamburgers, french fries, chicken sandwiches, and much more, they have some healthy options. The Wendy’s Jr. Cheeseburger contains fewer than 300 calories and is an excellent choice if you’re monitoring your caloric intake. Wendy’s now offers roasted potatoes and side salads to create a fast meal without the calorie-dense french fries.
6. Ruby Tuesday
There are several Ruby Tuesdays Eateries spread across the globe. Their extensive menu features seafood, sirloin, salads, and pasta, among other items. The healthier options on the menu are identified by the term “Fit & Trim.” Ruby Tuesday offers many choices to satisfy dietary restrictions, like gluten intolerance. Ruby Tuesday prepares its meals with trans-fat-free soybean oil.
7. Subway
Subway, the healthiest fast food chain, is known for its salads and individualized submarine sandwiches. As an alternative to bread, you could eat a salad accompanied by a side dish of chicken breast and an abundance of vegetables. Subway’s Fresh Fit, an exclusive menu segment featuring healthier options, has garnered significant acclaim. Subway offers more healthy food choices than many fast food restaurants. Despite the high fat and sodium content of many Subway dishes, they are generally low in sugar and an excellent source of protein and fiber.
8. Panera Bread
Panera Bread is a café, bakery, and quick food restaurant with options like soups, salads, baked goods, and sandwiches. Nonetheless, health-conscious individuals will discover excellent choices to eat at this restaurant. Care is taken with every ingredient. They are committed to utilizing solely natural ingredients, eliminating food items that “incorporate artificial sweeteners, preservatives, colors, or flavors.” A “No No List” consisting of over 85 ingredients, including lard, high fructose corn syrup, and many others, has been removed from the menu.
9. KFC
Famous healthiest fast food restaurant chain Kentucky Fried Chicken, abbreviated KFC. They have a traditional specialty of deep-fried chicken. Always remember that deep-frying chicken is ineffective in improving health and fitness. Conversely, specific KFC locations offer grilled chicken options catering to customers who prioritize their health. A minimal fat content characterizes grilled chicken. If you’re looking for a healthier meal, you can choose from their menu, which includes grilled chicken portions, french fries, beans, and maize.
10. The Cheesecake Factory
Small plate canapés, breakfast, brunch, and delectable specialty foods are all available on The Cheesecake’s full menu. There is more involved than just cheesecake. The Cheesecake Factory is known for its large serving sizes and high-calorie counts. However, due to increased demand, there is now a “SkinnyLicious” menu with smaller serving sizes and superior ingredients. The health-conscious menu provides a suggested view of various choices about calories and fats.
11. McDonald’s
McDonald’s has earned a reputation as one of the world’s largest, healthiest fast food chains. It is renowned for its signature sandwiches, such as the Big Mac. Unhealthy options make up the majority of McDonald’s menu. On the other hand, McDonald’s has significantly increased the number of healthier options on their menu. McDonald’s offers a variety of healthier options that can help you maintain your fitness while monitoring your caloric intake and enjoying something delicious on the go.
12. Starbucks
Starbucks has created several healthy options in recent years, such as steel-cut oatmeal, egg white wrappers, and egg morsels, and offers a variety of protein packs containing fresh produce, hard-boiled eggs, whole-grain crackers, and nuts.
Consider The Following:
Final Words:
Putting money into your health and fitness is not a viable option. You must, therefore, select the appropriate restaurants in this nation, and we’ve made it simpler for you to do so! This list lets you know where to look and what to order for healthier choices. Good dining!