Wanting something delicious, but the guilt doesn’t have to come with it? You’re not alone! Fast food tends to have a bad reputation for being unhealthy, but what if we told you it doesn’t always have to be guilt ridden? Whether you’re on the move or just in need of a filling meal, we’ve dug up seven high protein fast food options that satisfy not to mention they’ll actually leave your taste buds feeling good, too. Goodbye to empty salads, and hello to delicious meals that keep your energy levels up and your taste buds appeased. Excited to learn how you can splurge and still be smart with your nutrition? Here we go with these delicious choices!
Overview of high protein fast food and the benefits of consuming it
Fast food, while typically unhealthy, may surprise you with their protein content. When you’re in a hurry or simply hungry, there are lots of choices that satisfy taste without compromising nutrition. High protein fast food is a critical part of our diets it’s used to repair our muscles, aid in weight loss, and prevent termite like hunger pangs. If you’re searching to fulfill those cravings and you still want to fit into those skinny jeans (because summer’s almost here) or if you’re sticking to dietary preferences, then neat!
Come along with us as we explore seven high protein fast food options when fast food options are your only options — ones that will satisfy your cravings without making you feel weak an hour later. From tasty chicken sandwiches to nutrient packed salads, these options will revolutionize the way you think about fast food. Now let’s find out how easy it can be to enjoy without feeling bad going forward? Now let’s look into some delicious and healthy options that are waiting for you at your go to fast food chains!
Protein in our Diet and how it contributes to weight loss/fitness goals
Protein is an essential part of our diets: It’s the main building block for your muscles, skin and bones. It aids in healing of tissues and growth in general.
When it comes to losing weight, protein is your best friend. The nutrient is linked to feeling full for longer. That fullness can lead to less hunger for more food, thus helping you maintain your weight. That’s why many people look for high protein low calorie fast food options that deliver satiety without excess calories.
In exercise programs, protein is one of the main things that helps muscles recover after a workout session, because it helps rebuild muscle tissue. With enough protein, you can perform at your best and gain muscle tone.
Whether you follow a ketogenic diet fast food plan or just want to take the night off from carbs, low carb fast food meals deliver essential nutrients without tons of calories or carbs. When you make protein the most important part of your meal, you can achieve your health and fitness goals while enjoying fast food or something from home just as much as the next person!
Top 7 high protein fast food options with calories and why they’re good choices
When hunger takes over and you’re on the move, high protein fast food meals are a savior. Here are seven standouts that have a kick.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Generally serves up an average of about 30 grams of protein. It’s a leaner alternative to fried versions, and it will satisfy you for longer.
Turkey Burger
Turkey With roughly 25 grams of protein per serving, turkey contains fewer calories than beef, making it a weight loss friendly choice and a great pick for those searching for high protein low fat fast food.
Egg & Cheese Breakfast Muffin
This breakfast favorite, containing approximately 20 grams of protein, will help you get the morning started.
Beef Jerky Snack Packs
These single serving packs are between 10 15gs each — perfect for grabbing a quick snack that gives you decent nutritional value. Also a good choice for those wanting high protein take out that doesn’t require prep or utensils.
Protein Style Burger
Choosing lettuce wraps instead of a bun can also help save carbs, giving you around 28 grams of protein per bite, a perfect low carb takeout item.
Salmon Salad Bowl
They are also a rich source of omega 3 fatty acids and serve up around 22 grams of protein to aid in heart health and muscle recovery. A fantastic option for those who are seeking high protein restaurant meals.
(Black) Bean Chicken Burrito Bowl
Brown Rice & Black Beans: Black beans are the MVP in any burrito bowl, but when you mix them with grilled chicken you’ll net about 27 grams of protein plus some fiber — a filling choice that won’t make you feel sluggish. A great idea for a low carb lunch fast food option with whole foods.
Other options for vegetarians/vegans or for people with dietary restrictions
There doesn’t seem like a whole lot of fast food for vegetarians or those who are vegan. But rest assured, there are plenty of chains that offer tasty options that are high in protein while keeping it clean.
Black bean burgers or lentil patties are substantial alternatives to heavier fare. And you’re not just getting the protein, you are also getting fiber, which is great. Many restaurants are getting in on the trend, making wraps with quinoa and veggies as the filling a low carb takeaway win.
If you want something lighter, go for salads with chickpeas or edamame added. They’ll add that satisfying crunch and up the protein ante on your meal. Ideal when you’re searching for low carb food near me while on a plant based diet.
Specialty items, like the requisite tofu nuggets at some locations, deliver flavor and sustenance. And always scan the menu for special seasonal options — something new and interesting is usually featured to accommodate everyone’s dietary desires!
Tricks for what you should order at a fast food restaurant in a pinch.
Tips for finding what is “healthier” and still feels like a treat. But it can be easy to discount healthful fare when you’re joining for fast food. Begin by assuming grilled instead of fried everything. Grilled chicken sandwiches provide protein without added fats.
Order side salads, not fries. They can help fill you up and add vitamins and fiber to your meal — perfect additions to a low carb fast food plate.
Ask for sauces and dressings on the side. This gives you control over how much you add, which can be helpful for controlling calories.
Try to substitute bread or buns with lettuce wraps, when possible. This will remove almost all of the carbs yet provide a nice bite to the sausage. This tip comes in handy when hunting for best low carb fast food options that still taste great.
Drink water instead of sweetened beverages. A cool drink can help fight hunger without packing on the pounds.
And, of course, remember portion sizes. You already know that splitting a super sized combo with someone can leave you feeling nourished and fed, and sharing a meal with friends can be fulfilling in more ways than one.
DIY fast food meals that are packed with protein
Making your own high protein takeout style meals at home is not only easy, it’s also rewarding. Begin by selecting high quality protein such as chicken breast, lean beef, or tofu. These are the foundations of your meal.
Season your protein with herbs and spices for added flavor with no additional calories. When cooked on the grill or baked, it’s a healthier choice that keeps the meat juicy and gives it a smoky flavor.
Go for unusual toppings. Making it low carb with avocado for healthy fat and creaminess and salsa for flavor so it’s not added carbs is ideal. Mix them up with whole grain or low carb wraps.
Then add a side of roasted veggies or fresh salad for some extra vitamins and nutrients (to keep you feeling satiated too).
Don’t forget about sauces! And homemade yogurt based dressings can also add flavor while upping protein content. Once you understand all this, you’ll never miss fast food again.
Conclusion
Fast food doesn’t have to be a guilty pleasure. With the right selection, you can make it part of a balanced diet. High protein fast food options have essential nutrients that are beneficial to your workout goals and keep you feeling full longer. Just maintain portion control and food value, is all.
Whether you choose grilled chicken or bean anything, there are a ton of delicious options. Feel free to browse what’s around you when you’re looking for low carb meals or best fast food for high protein dinner.
Striking a balance is key. It’s okay to indulge in fast food every now and then, as long as you’re being conscientious of what you’re ordering. So treat yourself without forsaking those health resolutions.
