What a nutritionist would order at Chick-fil-A for a balanced meal

food drink

Written by Perry Ormont Blumberg, FOX News

Navigating the Chick-fil-A menu in search of a healthy meal can be difficult, especially when the Chick-fil-A Deluxe Sandwiches, Waffle Fries, and Milkshakes are calling your name .

With a menu centered around fried chicken, it's safe to say that not everything in Chick-fil-A's lineup is inherently nutritious.

Still, with a little strategic planning, you can make health-conscious choices at Chick-fil-A.

Focus on balanced options that incorporate lean protein sources, fresh vegetables, and whole grains, says Christopher Moll, R.D., co-owner of Mohr Results in Louisville, Kentucky. said it was important.

“Those aiming for healthier options should choose grilled over fried foods, be selective with sauces and dressings, and consider portion sizes to fit their nutritional goals,” he said.

With these guidelines in mind, keep reading to see what nutrition experts recommend ordering at The Chick.

grilled chicken sandwich

If you're looking for a healthier option at Chick-fil-A, we recommend grilling.

“Choosing a grilled chicken breast sandwich not only reduces saturated fat and sodium, but it also reduces advanced glycation end products that are commonly produced when proteins are exposed to dry, high heat, such as in deep frying. ” said Michelle Ruthenstein. She is a preventive cardiology nutritionist for EntirelyNourished.com in New York.

“We marinate boneless chicken breast in a blend of seasonings to make it tender and juicy, just like it was roasted in the backyard,” Mohr said.

He says the sandwich is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and is lower in calories (330 calories) and fat (7 grams) than a fried sandwich.

“You can further boost its nutritional profile by pairing it with a side salad instead of fries,” he added.

Dr. Rosenstein also recommended cutting back on French fries, but suggested pairing this sandwich with a fruit cup to increase the potassium level of your meal and counteract its high sodium content.

grilled nuggets

Chick-Fil-A's 300-calorie grilled nuggets are another health-conscious option, Mohr said.

“These bite-sized boneless chicken breasts are marinated and grilled with a special blend of seasonings,” he said.

“It's a high-protein, low-fat alternative to traditional fried chicken nuggets,” he says, adding that these grilled nuggets are especially good for people who want to increase their protein intake without adding extra calories or fat. He pointed out that there was.

fruit cup

Mohr said the 60-calorie fruit cup is a refreshing and nutritious dish.

“Usually there's a mix of tangerine parts, fresh strawberries, red and green apple pieces, and blueberries,” he says, adding that fruit cups are rich in vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber, making them easy to digest. and promotes overall health.

“It's a great way to add a serving of fruit to your meal, especially as an alternative to high-calorie, high-sugar desserts,” Mohr says.

egg white grill

For a healthy breakfast option at Chick-fil-A, Mohr recommended the Egg White Grill, which has 290 calories.

“The breakfast portion features grilled chicken breast, grilled egg whites, and American cheese on a toasted multigrain English muffin,” he said, adding that the product balances lean protein from the chicken and egg whites. He pointed out that it is useful for maintaining good health. You'll feel fuller longer.

Additionally, they have fewer calories and less fat than traditional breakfast sandwiches, making them a smart option for people watching their food intake, Mohr said.

Grilled fillet market salad

Another healthy option at Chick-fil-A might be ordering a market salad with grilled chicken, Rosenstein suggested.

This 550-calorie salad includes nutrient-dense ingredients like mixed greens, red and green apples, strawberries, blueberries, and roasted almonds.