Top 10 Keto-Friendly Fast Food Options: A Comprehensive Guide
Eating out while following a keto diet can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. Fast food is often seen as a no-go for keto dieters, but there are plenty of options that can fit into your low-carb lifestyle. This guide will help you find the best keto-friendly fast food options, so you can stay on track without sacrificing convenience or taste.
Key Takeaways
- Subway’s Double Chicken Chopped Salad is a great low-carb option packed with protein.
- McDonald’s Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich without the bun makes for a quick and easy keto meal.
- Chipotle’s Keto Salad Bowl offers a customizable and delicious way to stick to your diet.
- Burger King’s Whopper without the bun is a hearty choice that won’t kick you out of ketosis.
- Wendy’s Baconator without the bun is a satisfying and keto-friendly fast food choice.
1. Subway’s Double Chicken Chopped Salad
Subway’s Double Chicken Chopped Salad is a fantastic choice for those on an effective keto diet plan for weight loss. This salad combines seasoned chicken, crispy bacon, and a drizzle of creamy ranch, all tossed with fresh greens and your choice of toppings. It’s a protein-packed meal that keeps you full and satisfied.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Net Carbs | 9g |
| Fat | 17g |
| Protein | 22g |
Keto Customization
- Swap the bread for lettuce to keep it low-carb.
- Add extra cheese or guacamole for more flavor.
- Avoid high-carb toppings to maintain its keto-friendly profile.
Subway makes it easy to stick to your keto diet once you know what to order. Just be cautious with their creamy soups and chili, as they pack about 15g carbs per bowl.
2. McDonald’s Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich (no bun)
The McDonald’s Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich without the bun is a great choice for those on a keto diet. It’s low in carbs and protein, making it a balanced option for a quick meal. You’ll get a tender grilled chicken breast served with fresh lettuce and tomato when you order it without the bun.
Here’s a quick look at its nutritional content:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Net Carbs | 6g |
| Fat | 19g |
| Protein | 29g |
This sandwich is perfect for those who want to enjoy a tasty meal while keeping their carb intake low. If you’re looking for more low-calorie meals, whether you’re ordering grilled nuggets or a grilled chicken sandwich, McDonald’s has you covered.
For a satisfying and keto-friendly meal, the Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich without the bun is a top pick. Just remember to skip the fries and sugary drinks to stay on track with your keto goals.
3. Chipotle’s Keto Salad Bowl
Chipotle’s Keto Salad Bowl is a game-changer for those on a keto diet. This bowl features succulent, slow-cooked carnitas, and a base of leafy greens, and is topped with hand-mashed guacamole, cheese, and salsa. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and nutrients.
Keto Customization
This bowl is already optimized for keto with its low net carbs and high fat and protein content, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, hassle-free keto meal.
What to Add (Optional)
- Extra cheese
- Second scoop of guacamole
For a quick, affordable dining option, Chipotle is a great choice. We’re personally loving the convenience (and taste) of the new keto Chipotle bowl!
4. Burger King’s Whopper (no bun)
Burger King is a popular fast-food chain that offers some low-carb options. One of the best choices for a keto-friendly meal is the Whopper without the bun. This simple change can make a big difference in keeping your meal low in carbs.
What to Order
- Whopper (no bun, no ketchup)
- Double Whopper (no bun, no ketchup)
- Bacon King (no bun, no ketchup)
Tips for Ordering
When ordering, make sure to skip the sauces and ketchup to keep the carb count low. You can also pair your burger with a side garden salad for a more balanced meal.
Remember, the fries are obviously a no-go if you’re sticking to a keto diet.
By making these small adjustments, you can enjoy a satisfying and keto-friendly meal at Burger King.
5. Wendy’s Baconator (no bun)
The Wendy’s Baconator without the bun is a fantastic keto-friendly option. This low-carb powerhouse packs a punch with rich flavors and satisfying textures. It includes two beef patties, six strips of crispy bacon, and melted cheese, all topped with mayo and ketchup. To keep it keto, make sure to skip the bun and ketchup.
Here’s a quick look at its nutritional content:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Net Carbs | 5g |
| Fat | 50g |
| Protein | 31g |
For a more keto-friendly option, you can also try the Breakfast Baconator, which has similar ingredients but includes a fresh egg. This makes it a perfect start for those on a keto diet.
Wendy’s Baconator (no bun) is a delicious and satisfying choice for anyone following a keto diet.
6. Taco Bell’s Power Menu Bowl (no rice, no beans)
Just turn it into a burrito bowl with no rice or beans. This one has seasoned meat, fresh lettuce, shredded cheese, and guacamole. It’s a powerhouse of protein and fats, tailored to fit a nutritious lifestyle.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Net Carbs | 8g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Protein | 21g |
Customization Tips
- Add lettuce and bacon for extra crunch and flavor.
- Skip the tortilla strips to keep it low-carb.
- Feel free to add more healthy fats like guacamole or sour cream.
This bowl is a customizable feast that fits perfectly into a keto diet.
Why It’s Keto-Friendly
The Power Menu Bowl is low in carbs and high in fats and protein, making it a great choice for those following a keto diet. By removing the rice and beans, you cut down on carbs significantly, allowing you to enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal without breaking your diet.
7. Chick-fil-A’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich (no bun)
Chick-fil-A’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich is a great choice for those on a keto diet. Skip the bun and enjoy the juicy grilled chicken with pickles. This option has only 3g of net carbs, 2g of fat, and 21g of protein, making it a balanced meal.
For a bit of variety, you can also try their grilled nuggets. They have similar nutritional values and are just as tasty.
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich (no bun): 3g net carbs, 2g fat, 21g protein
- Grilled Nuggets (eight counts, no sauces): 2g net carbs, 2g fat, 21g protein
Chick-fil-A offers some of the freshest keto fast food options, perfect for those who want to stay low-carb while on the go.
Remember, the role of nutrition in your fitness journey is crucial. Understanding macronutrients like protein, carbs, and fats can help you make better food choices. Chick-fil-A makes it easy to stick to your keto goals without sacrificing taste.
8. Arby’s Roast Turkey Farmhouse Salad
Arby’s is known for its roast beef, but they also offer a great keto-friendly option with their Roast Turkey Farmhouse Salad. This salad is a mix of fresh greens, roast turkey, and other tasty toppings. It’s a perfect choice for those on a keto diet.
Here’s a quick look at its nutritional content:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Fat | 14g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbs | 5g |
If you’re gluten-free, it’s possible to dine at Arby’s on most of the meats (without a bun, of course) and on the farmhouse salad with roast turkey. The salad is filling and delicious, making it a great option for a quick, healthy meal.
For a satisfying and low-carb meal, the Roast Turkey Farmhouse Salad at Arby’s is a top pick. It’s both nutritious and delicious, fitting perfectly into a keto lifestyle.
9. KFC’s Grilled Chicken
KFC is famous for its crispy breading, but you can keep your order keto with their grilled chicken options. Their grilled chicken is delicious and there’s no shame in ordering a whole bucket.
What to Order
- 2-piece white chicken combo (grilled, green beans as a side): 2g net carbs, 10g fat, 47g protein.
- Kentucky Grilled Bucket (green beans as a side, no biscuits): Feed the family on 4g net carbs!
- Creamy Buffalo and Buttermilk Ranch are the best low-carb options for dipping!
Tips
- Avoid fried options as they are high in carbs.
- Add a side of green beans for a low-carb meal.
For a healthier lifestyle, KFC’s grilled chicken is a great choice to satisfy your cravings without breaking your keto diet.
10. In-N-Out’s Protein Style Burger
In-N-Out offers a fantastic keto-friendly option with their Protein Style Burger. This burger swaps out the bun for fresh lettuce, making it a great low-carb choice. You can customize it by adding extra patties and cheese, like the 3×3 or 4×4, which means three or four patties and slices of cheese, respectively.
What to Order
- Protein Style: Burger wrapped in lettuce, no bun.
- Animal Style: Includes lettuce, tomato, and a mustard-cooked beef patty.
- Double Double: Double meat for extra protein.
- Flying Dutchman: A cheese sandwich with two meat patties as the “buns.”
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If you’re looking for a healthier burger option, try In-N-Out’s Protein Style Burger. It’s a delicious choice that swaps the bun for fresh lettuce, making it a great low-carb alternative. Want to learn more about healthy eating and fitness tips? Visit our website for more information!
Conclusion
Sticking to a keto diet while enjoying fast food is doable. With the right choices and a bit of planning, you can keep your meals low-carb and tasty. Remember to opt for grilled items, skip the buns, and watch out for hidden carbs. Customizing your order is key. Following these tips allows you to enjoy fast food without breaking your keto diet. So, next time you’re on the go, you can stay on track and still enjoy your favorite fast food spots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I eat fast food on a keto diet?
Yes, you can eat fast food on a keto diet. Just make sure to choose options that are low in carbs, like grilled meats and salads without sugary dressings.
What should I avoid when ordering keto fast food?
Avoid items like buns, fries, and sugary sauces. Stick to grilled meats, cheese, and veggies.
Are there any hidden carbs in fast food?
Yes, some fast food items may have hidden carbs in sauces, dressings, or breading. Always check the nutritional information if possible.
Can I customize my fast food order to be keto-friendly?
Absolutely! Most fast food places let you customize your order. You can ask for no bun, no fries, or extra veggies.
Is grilled chicken always a safe keto option?
Grilled chicken is usually a safe keto option, but it’s best to check if it has any marinades or sauces that might contain sugar.
Can I have cheese on a keto diet?
Yes, cheese is generally low in carbs and can be a good addition to your keto meals. Just avoid cheese sauces that might have added carbs.
