Are you out and about on a busy day? How about on the road for a vacation? In these moments, it can be downright challenging to stick with your dietary plans and nutritional goals. Sometimes your only option is to visit healthy fast-food restaurants instead.
Nutrition is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Luckily, you don’t have to succumb to eating greasy burgers and fries. Here are 12 of the healthiest fast-food restaurants for anyone who needs to hit the drive-thru rather than cook dinner at home.
1. Jimmy John’s
Do you crave a good sandwich? Find a Jimmy John’s near you to put together an appetizing sub with all your favorite fresh ingredients. You can even skip the bread altogether by getting a lettuce wrap called an “Unwich.”
2. Chipotle Mexican Grill
Chipotle is famous for using high-quality ingredients. Put together a chicken burrito bowl with black beans and brown rice if you want fiber and protein. You can also top it with crispy lettuce, shredded cheese, and a variety of fresh salsas.
3. Panera Bread
Whether you need a quick breakfast or need somewhere to work while you eat lunch, then Panera Bread is the place for you! This healthy fast-food restaurant has a cozy interior or a drive-thru if you’re in a hurry. Enjoy a variety of delicious salads, soups, and sandwiches.
4. Chick-fil-A
Is it a day of the week other than Sunday? Good news! You can visit Chick-fil-A to get something healthy while you’re on the road. Chick-fil-A is located all across the United States. Their menu boasts several nutritious wraps, salads, and fruit cups for customers to enjoy.
5. Noodles & Company
Noodles & Company provides options like whole grain linguine and zucchini noodles, which can be paired with a range of vegetables and lean proteins. Sometimes you get tired of salads and cold wraps, but you still want to eat healthy. At Noodles & Company, you can get all the nutrition you need while still enjoying a hot meal.
6. Subway
With the tagline “Eat Fresh,” any hungry customer can expect nutritious options at Subway. This healthy fast-food restaurant offers whole-grain bread topped with an assortment of fresh ingredients. The “Fresh Fit” choices are particularly lower in calories and fat if you’re watching your weight.
7. Panda Express
The orange chicken is a popular menu item at Panda Express. However, there are other protein-packed entrees you can order from the “Wok Smart” menu at this healthy fast food restaurant. Get a bowl of soy-grilled chicken breast with string beans for eight grams of protein at less than 300 calories.
8. Sweetgreen
This healthy fast-food restaurant is all about freshness and sustainability. Visit one of their locations to try a variety of salads and protein bowls made with organic ingredients. You can even get fresh salmon! Don’t worry if you’re traveling with children. Sweetgreen also has an impressive kids’ menu.
9. Potbelly’s
Here’s another sandwich shop you can visit if you want something fast, yet healthy. Potbelly’s offers mouthwatering hot sandwiches and a variety of premade salads packed with leafy greens and protein. Even if you indulge in one of their milkshakes, you’ll still feel good about visiting this healthy fast-food restaurant.
10. Wendy’s
Surprisingly, Wendy’s belongs on the list of healthy fast-food restaurants. No, that doesn’t mean you can indulge in a double bacon burger and a Frosty and meet your nutritional needs. Instead, check out some of Wendy’s healthy menu items including various salads, grilled chicken wraps, and even baked potatoes. Just avoid pouring on too much dressing or sauce!
11. McDonald’s
After the documentary Super Size Me came out in 2004, McDonald’s got a lot of flak for contributing to obesity. The popular fast-food restaurant has since changed the game by adding healthier options to its menu. Customers who want a more nutritious option than a Big Mac can order salads, fruit salads, and grilled chicken wraps or sandwiches.
12. Starbucks
Millions of people love Starbucks coffee, but you could also visit one of their chains if you’re hungry. Starbucks should be your go-to place if you want a healthy breakfast on the road. Their menu includes egg white sandwiches, fruit cups, and granola bars you can buy for a future snack.
Eat Healthy
When you’re looking for a quick bite, it helps to know which healthy fast-food restaurants you can visit. Burgers and fries are nice sometimes, but if you want energy, then it’s all about veggies and protein. Thankfully, these restaurants are available all around the United States, so you should be able to find one near you.
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Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.