Every now and then, we all need to indulge in some quick and easy drive-thru fast food — whether it’s because we’re seriously pressed for time, have a massive craving, or just because we damn well feel like it.
There’s no need to feel guilty about pleasures, and fast food in moderation won’t kill you. But if you ever find yourself at a chain restaurant and in search of something less likely to give you an energy crash or make you feel bloated later on, you still have options.
We spoke to some registered dietitians to get the scoop on the healthiest things you can order at fast food chains. Check out their options ahead.
Domino’s
If you’re trying to eat healthy at Domino’s, it’s all about the toppings.
Lara Metz, RD, founder of Lara Metz Nutrition, recommends topping off a thin-crust cheese pizza with a medley of fresh baby spinach, fresh mushrooms, diced tomatoes, and black olives.
“This option has a thinner, lighter crust and less cheese, which translates to less saturated fat and sodium," she says, adding that the veggie toppings add a dose of fiber and necessary vitamins and minerals.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
McDonald’s
The key to healthier eating at McDonald’s?
“Avoid the fried food options and stick to grilled chicken,” says Molly Rieger, RD, of Tovita Nutrition.
Rieger says there are a number of healthier choices at McD’s that give you the option to substitute with grilled chicken, amongst them the Ranch Snack Wrap, the Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich, the Southwest Salad, and the Premium McWrap Chicken.
If you’re pressed for time in the morning and need a quick fix, Rieger suggests sticking to options like the Fruit ‘N Yogurt Parfait, the Fruit and Maple Oatmeal, the Egg McMuffin, or the Egg White Delite.
Sometimes, though, you just want the burger and french fries — and that’s okay. Another way to make it healthier is to just skip the soda and order a regular coffee or bottled water instead, Rieger says. Even if you sweeten a black coffee with a few sugar packets, it won't even come close to the high amounts of added sugar in soda, which can lead to a huge energy rush right away, followed by an equally big crash later on.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Subway
The best advice is to fill your sub with a lean protein (like chicken, turkey, or a veggie patty if you’re a vegetarian) and at least two vegetables (lettuce, cucumber, spinach, peppers) to help you get your three to five servings for the day and add fiber, Rieger says.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Kentucky Fried Chicken
It seems blasphemous to order anything but fried chicken at KFC, but you'd be surprised how many healthier options there are at this fast food classic. Middleberg suggests checking out the grilled chicken options and choosing your sides wisely. “I like to keep the sides simple, with healthy but tried-and-true options like a side salad with olive oil and green beans,” she says.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Burger King
Fill up on veggies and protein, Metz says. Not only are veggies great for you, they also have a higher water content than other items on the menu, keeping you full and hydrated.
She recommends ordering the Garden Grilled Chicken Salad without croutons and with half a packet of balsamic vinaigrette.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Taco Bell
You might think the salads are pretty much the go-to for healthier fare at all fast food places, but not in this case. “You are better off indulging in a taco or burrito!” Rieger says.
Rieger also suggests the Cantina Power Bowls, which offer fiber from the veggies and black beans, healthy fats from the guacamole, and protein from the chicken.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Wendy’s
Middleberg recommends the Power Mediterranean Salad. It’s tasty and has a protein- and fiber-rich combo of chicken, quinoa, hummus, and feta cheese.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.
Dairy Queen
You could keep it simple at DQ with a small vanilla or chocolate cone — or you could just get whatever you want.
Remember: There are no "good" or "bad" foods. As long as you're eating balanced meals and listening to your body, you're on the right track.
Illustrated by: Elliot Salazar.Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
The Truth About These Major GMO Myths