Macro Friendly Fast Food: A Guide to Eating Out

If you’re someone who’s committed to their fitness and nutrition goals, eating out at fast food joints can be a real challenge. But counting macros is all about flexibility so don’t let that stop you from enjoying the occasional fast food meal. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most macro-friendly fast food options that will help you stay on track with your diet. 

We’ll show you how you can still indulge in a quick and convenient meal without sacrificing your macros. Whether you’re looking for high protein options, low carb choices, or just trying to keep your calories in check, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and discover the best fast food options for your macros.

Macro Friendly Fast Food Choices

McDonalds

Let’s take a look at some of the most macro-friendly fast food options out there. McDonald’s is known for its burgers and fries, but did you know that they also have some surprisingly healthy options? For example:

• Filet-O-Fish Sandwich (390 calories, 16g protein, 19g fat, 39g carbohydrates) 
• Egg McMuffin (with ham and cheese) (310 calories, 17g protein, 13g fat, 30g carbohydrates)
• Sausage and Egg Burrito: (310 calories, 13g protein, 17g fat, 25g carbohydrates)
• McDouble Cheeseburger: (400 calories, 22g protein, 20g fat, 33g carbohydrates)

These options all have a decent amount of protein and are lower in calories compared to some of the other menu items.

Of course, it’s always important to consider the ingredients and cooking methods used, as well as portion sizes. But with these options, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without completely derailing your macros.

Burger King

If you’re looking for macro-friendly fast food options, Burger King might not be the first place that comes to mind. However, with a little bit of menu savvy, you can find some decent options that fit within your macros.

While it’s true that many items on the menu are high in calories, fat, and sodium, there are still some choices that can provide a good balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.

Let’s take a look at some of the best options at Burger King for those who are looking for a macro friendly fast food option.

• Whopper Jr. sandwich: 335 calories, 17g protein, 30g carbs, 18g fat
• Spicy Chicken Jr.: 380 calories, 12g protein, 2g carbs, 19g fat
• Chicken Garden Salad (without dressing or croutons): 550 calories, 36g protein, 81g carbs, 29g fat

Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A is a popular fast food chain known for their chicken sandwiches and nuggets. While fast food is often associated with unhealthy options, Chick-fil-A actually offers some macro-friendly options that can fit into a healthy diet.

By choosing the right menu items and being mindful of portion sizes, you can enjoy a satisfying meal while still meeting your macro goals.

Here are some macro-friendly options to consider at Chick-fil-A:

• Grilled Chicken Sandwich: 390 calories, 12g fat, 28g protein, 44g carbs
• 12-Count Grilled Chicken Nuggets: 200 calories, 4.5g fat, 25g protein, 11g carbs
• Kale Crunch Side: 170 calories, 12g fat, 4g protein, 13g carbs
• Chicken Tortilla Soup: 340 calories, 10g fat, 23g protein, 38g carbs
• Fruit Cup: 60 calories, 0g fat, 1g protein, 15g carbs

As with any fast food chain, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes and be aware of added sugars and fats in certain menu items. By making informed choices and tracking your macros, you can still enjoy fast food while maintaining a healthy diet.

KFC

KFC, or Kentucky Fried Chicken, is known for their fried chicken, but they also offer some macro-friendly options. While their menu is generally higher in calories and fat than some other fast food chains, there are still some options that can fit into a balanced diet.

When ordering at KFC, opt for grilled chicken instead of the fried options, and pair it with a side of green beans or corn on the cob for some fiber and nutrients. Here are some macro-friendly options to consider:

• Kentucky Grilled Chicken Breast (210 calories, 7g fat, 38g protein)
• Green Beans (25 calories, 0g fat, 1g protein, 2g fiber, 5g carbs)
• Corn on the Cob (70 calories, 0g fat, 2g protein, 2g fiber, 17g carbs)

Remember that fast food should be enjoyed in moderation as it is often higher in sodium and saturated fat. However, with some mindful ordering, it is possible to enjoy fast food and still lose weight in a healthy way.

Taco Bell

Taco Bell is a go-to fast food spot for many, but it can be hard to find macro-friendly options on their menu. Fear not, because there are a few items that can fit into your daily calorie and macro goals. Here are some of the most macro-friendly options at Taco Bell:

• Chicken Soft Taco: 160 calories, 5g fat, 16g carbs, 12g protein
• Crunchy Taco: 170 calories, 10g fat, 13g carbs, 8g protein
• Power Menu Bowl – Chicken: 460 calories, 21g fat, 41g carbs, 26g protein
• Grilled Steak Soft Taco: 180 calories, 5g fat, 18g carbs, 19g protein

While Taco Bell isn’t known for being the healthiest fast food option, these choices can fit into a balanced diet as long as you keep track of your intake. Remember to watch out for added sauces and toppings that can increase the calorie count of your meal.

Subway

Subway is a great fast food option for staying in control of your macros, thanks to it’s fully customizable menu and fresh ingredients. There are plenty of options to choose from, not just sandwiches, including:

• 6″ Grilled Chicken Sub: 290 calories, 4g fat, 40g carbs, 22g protein
• 6″ Oven Roasted Turkey & Ham Sub: 270 calories, 4g fat, 40g carbs, 19g protein
• Grilled Chicken Protein Bowl (not including dressing): 200 calories, 4g fat, 9g carbs, 35g protein
• Oven Roasted Turkey Protein Bowl (not including dressing): 150 calories, 3g fat, 8g carbs, 25g protein

There are many options on the Subway menu that are high in protein and don’t forget, you can always pile on the fresh veggies for added nutrition and to help keep you fuller for longer! But remember, as with most fast food restaurants, not all options on the menu are ‘healthy’. Picking the right options and making healthier swaps where possible, is really important to help keep you on track.

Panera Bread

Panera Bread stands out from other fast-food spots by offering bakery and café-style meals. Here, you’ll find freshly baked bread and bagels, along with soups, salads, sandwiches, and tasty entrée options like noodle bowls. Plus, many of their items are baked or grilled instead of fried, so you can easily find some macro-friendly options.

• Garden Avo & Egg Whites on a Multigrain Bagel: 340 calories, 19g protein, 36g carbs, 14g fat
• Greek Yogurt with Mixed Berries Parfait: 250 calories, 16g protein, 29g carbs, 9g fat
• Fuji Apple Chicken Salad w/o Dressing: 410 calories, 33g protein, 22g carbs, 24g fat
• Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad (whole): 370 calories, 29g protein, 26g carbs, 14g fat
• Green Goddess Chicken Cobb Salad (whole): 490 calories, 40g protein, 24g carbs, 27g fat
• Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup (bowl): 150 calories, 14g protein, 17g carbs, 3g fat

While Panera’s portion sizes are often large and the meals can pack in the calories, you can always split something with a friend or go for a half-sized portion.

Chipotle Mexican Grill

Chipotle Mexican Grill offer some great macro-friendly options to help keep you on track when you’re in the mood for Mexican takeout. Thanks to the fully customizable menu, you can select your meal to fit your macros and bulk up on veggies and protein:

• Chicken Burrito Bowl with Brown Rice, Black Beans, Fajita Veggies and Fresh Tomato Salsa: 565 calories, 45g protein, 67g carbs, 15g fat
• Steak Bowl with Brown Rice, Black Beans, Fajita Veggies, Green Chili Salsa, and Cheese: 485 calories, 38g protein, 32g carbs, 21.5g fat
• Barbacoa Bowl with White Rice, Pinto Beans, Fajita Veggies and Green Tomatillo Salsa: 545 calories, 37g protein, 68g carbs, 15g fat

Just be mindful of the generous portion sizes and stick to the fresh salsas rather than the more calorie dense creamy toppings.

Panda Express

Craving Chinese food? The popular Panda Express offers a small selection of macro-friendly options based on Chinese-American classics. Check out our top picks and discover their ‘Wok Smart’ items with 8+ grams of protein and all under 300 calories. 

• Double Broccoli Beef (300 cals) with a side of Super Greens: 390 calories, 10g fat, 23g carbs, 15g protein
• Mushroom Chicken (220 cals) with a side of Super Greens: 310 calories, 17g fat, 20g carbs, 20g protein
• String Bean Chicken Breast (210 cals) and a side of Super Greens: 300 calories, 12g fat, 20g carbs, 15g protein
• Grilled Asian Chicken (275 cals) with a side of Super Greens: 365 calories, 13g fat, 23g carbs, 39g protein

There are lots of sides available including steamed brown rice, but remember to load up on the healthy super greens and just be mindful of the sodium levels in any additional sauces or alternative dishes. 

Arbys

Arby’s is famous for its roast beef sandwiches, so if that’s what you’re craving, then you’re in luck! But if you’re in the mood for more than just that, Arby’s extensive meat-based menu has a few other options that are easy on the macros: 

• Classic Roast Beef Sandwich: 360 calories, 14g fat, 37g carbs, 23g protein (add Arbys Sauce for 15 calories and 3g carbs)
• Chicken Slider: 230 calories, 9g fat, 25g carbs, 11g protein
• Roast Beef Slider: 170 calories, 7g fat, 16g carbs, 10g protein
• Turkey & Cheese Slider: 190 calories, 6g fat, 23g carbs, 13g protein

And because no food is off limits, if you’re craving a portion of fries and have the macros for it, the best option is a small portion of Curly Fries for 250 calories, 13F, 29C, 3P. 

Starbucks

Meeting up with a friend for a coffee and want to grab a bite to eat? Starbucks is a popular meeting spot and they have some great macro-friendly options available that will help you stay on track with your nutritional goals:

• Turkey Bacon, Cheddar & Egg White Sandwich: 230 calories, 5g fat, 28g carbs, 17g protein
• Spinach, Feta & Egg White Wrap: 290 calories, 8g fat, 34g carbs, 20g protein
• Kale & Mushroom Egg Bites: 230 calories, 14g fat, 11g carbs, 15g protein
• Egg White & Roasted Red Pepper Egg Bites: 170 calories, 8g fat, 11g carbs, 12g protein
• Berry Trio Parfait: 240 calories, 2.5g fat, 39g carbs, 14g protein

Remember, life’s about making memories with friends and family, so don’t let healthy living stop you from catching up.  Just opt for the healthier options, and enjoy your time together!

Conclusion

Fast food doesn’t have to be entirely off-limits when it comes to trying to hit your macro goals. While some fast food options may not be the most macro-friendly, there are still options out there that you can choose from. 

By paying attention to the serving sizes and nutritional information, you can make smarter choices that will help you stay within your macro goals while still being able to indulge in some fast food. 

It’s important to remember that moderation is key, and while fast food can be a convenient option, it’s still important to prioritize whole, nutrient-dense foods in your diet.