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7 Healthy Chick-fil-A Orders Now, According to Dietitians

A dietitian reveals smart Chick-fil-A picks that are high in protein and low in calories.

Fried chicken nuggets and fried chicken sandwiches aren’t exactly what comes to mind when discussing healthy food. However, you can go to Chick-fil-A and find healthy options. We asked Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, what her go-to orders are at the chicken joint. “To get a healthier option at fast food restaurants at Chick-fil-A, focus on not just the main entrée,” she says. “There can be a lot of calories in the sides (fries or other fried options) and also in sauces (mayo, Chick-fil-A sauce).” Also, sodium “adds up quickly in many foods, but especially in those sauces as well as salad dressings.”

Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Chick-fil-A

You can’t go wrong with a Grilled Chicken Sandwich.

Nutrition: 390 calories, 28g protein, 12g fat, 3g fiber

Why it’s RD-approved: “Lean protein, whole-grain bun, and veggies. Pair with a fruit cup or side salad for added fiber and volume,” Collingwood says.

Grilled Nuggets

Chick-fil-A

Grilled Nuggets (8-Count) are another healthy option.

Nutrition: 130 calories, 25g protein, 3g fat

Why it’s RD-approved: “Low in calories and high in protein. A great option for a snack or to pair with a soup or side salad,” says Collingwood.

Market Salad with Grilled Chicken

Chick-fil-A

If you are feeling like a refreshing salad, order the Market Salad with Grilled Chicken.

Nutrition: 540 calories (with toppings and dressing), 28g protein, 5g fiber

Tip: “Use half the dressing or try the Light Balsamic Vinaigrette to save calories,” she says.

Why it’s RD-approved: “Loaded with greens, fruit, nuts, and lean grilled chicken,” Collingwood adds.

Chicken Noodle Soup

Chick-fil-A

Chicken Noodle Soup is another healthy option. She recommends sticking to a medium.

Nutrition: 230 calories, 22g protein, 3g fiber

Why it’s RD-approved: “Comforting and light. High in protein and relatively low in calories. Good pairing with a fruit cup or grilled nuggets,” Collingwood says.

Side Salad with Grilled Nuggets

Chick-fil-A

She also recommends a Side Salad with Grilled Nuggets, 5-Count.

Nutrition: ~320–350 calories, depending on dressing

Why it’s RD-approved: “Customizable, satisfying, and offers a solid balance of protein and fiber,” she says.

Egg White Grill

Chick-fil-A

If you are there for breakfast, order the Egg White Grill.

Nutrition: 290 calories, 26g protein, 8g fat

Why it’s RD-approved: “One of the healthiest fast food breakfast sandwiches out there — egg whites, grilled chicken, and an English muffin,” she says.

Greek Yogurt Parfait with Granola

Chick-fil-A

Another breakfast item she recommends is the Greek Yogurt Parfait with Granola.

Nutrition: 270 calories, 13g protein, 2g fiber

Why it’s RD-approved: “A solid snack or lighter breakfast with probiotics, protein, and less sugar than typical fast food parfaits,” she says.

Fruit Cup + Grilled Nuggets

Chick-fil-A

Fruit Cup and Grilled Nuggets are another option, but she suggests getting the 5-count.

Nutrition: 190 calories total, 21g protein

Why it’s RD-approved: “Simple, refreshing, high-protein, and low-calorie combo that keeps blood sugar steady,” she says.

 

Leah Groth
Leah Groth is a writer for Eat This, Not That! Read more about Leah
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