McDonald’s, Wendy’s and 13 Other Fast Food Chains’ Healthiest (And Cheapest) Options

Eating out doesn't have to mean throwing your health or budget out the window, especially if you know where to look. Whether you're running errands, heading home from a grandkid's soccer game, or just want a quick bite without the guilt, these smart fast food picks can help you stay on track.

We've found 15 options from popular chains that keep calories, sodium, and saturated fat in check while still being easy on the wallet.

Each item delivers solid nutritional value — think lean protein, fiber, and veggies, with most ringing in at under $10. These are healthy and delicious ways to stretch your restaurant budget even further.

Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.

Price: $8.49

If you are looking to go out to eat more, Taco Bell's Power Menu Bowl is a surprising standout for both health and affordability. With seasoned rice, black beans, grilled chicken, guacamole, and a hearty portion of lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese, this bowl offers fiber, protein, and healthy fats in one satisfying package. It clocks in around 470 calories and packs 27g of protein.

Price: $9.97

Panera is known for its fresh, wholesome ingredients, and this bowl is a prime example. 

Made with chicken raised without antibiotics, farro, quinoa, arugula, cucumbers, hummus, and a lemon tahini dressing, this dish delivers a Mediterranean-inspired meal full of plant-based nutrients and lean protein. It's about 550 calories and has 32g of protein and 8g of fiber.

Price: $6.29

A newer addition to the Wendy's menu, this wrap has earned praise from dietitians for its simplicity and balance. 

The grilled chicken is lean protein, the whole grain wrap adds fiber, and lettuce, cheddar, and ranch dressing give it flavor without going overboard on calories.

Price: $5.99

For a budget-friendly, veggie-packed meal, Subway's Veggie Delight is a solid go-to. Loaded with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, spinach, and green peppers, it offers crunch and freshness on your choice of bread. 

Opt for 9-Grain Wheat and skip the cheese and mayo to keep it under 300 calories.

Price: $4.39

Simple, satisfying, and surprisingly nutritious, Chick-fil-A's Grilled Chicken Sandwich is a longtime favorite among health-conscious diners. Served on a multigrain bun with lettuce and tomato, the sandwich includes a tender grilled chicken breast that provides 28g of protein with just 380 calories and 5g of fat.

Price: $2.49

Del Taco's Chicken Soft Taco is a surprisingly light and protein-rich option for the price. Each taco has about 170 calories, 3g of fiber, and 12g of protein. Order two for a filling meal still under 350 calories, and you're only spending about $5.

Price: $7.95

The Starbucks Protein Box with eggs, cheese, multigrain bread, and fruit is a smart, balanced meal when you're on the go. With 23g of protein, 5g of fiber, and around 470 calories, it checks many nutritional boxes.

Price: $7.99

Another hit from Wendy's, this salad includes grilled chicken, avocado, tomatoes, and a mix of romaine and spring greens. 

At 420 calories and 39g of protein, it's satisfying without being heavy. It's a great option for those watching their carbs or looking for heart-healthy fats.

Price: $2.99

If you're looking for a hearty, nutritious breakfast to go, look no further than McDonald's. Yes, McDonald's has oatmeal, and it's actually quite nutritious.

 Made with whole grain oats, maple syrup, diced apples, and cranberries, it comes in at 320 calories and offers 4g of fiber. At under $3, it's one of the most budget-friendly options around.

Price: $3.19

Wendy's chili is a warm, filling option that's lower in calories and higher in protein and fiber than you might expect. A small cup has about 240 calories, 6g of fiber, and 16g of protein. Pair it with a side salad for a well-rounded meal under $7.

Price: $3.99

The "Little John" is a smaller version of Jimmy John's classic subs. Try the Turkey Little John, which comes in under 300 calories and provides lean protein in a smaller portion. 

It's a smart option for a light lunch or snack on the go.

Price: Around $9.00

Chipotle's Cauliflower Rice Bowl with chicken, fajita veggies, and black beans is a great way to reduce carbs while loading up on nutrients, especially if you skip the cheese and sour cream. 

It has about 450 calories and 30g of protein, and will satisfy your midday cravings.

Price: $6.29

This simple salad is filled with grilled chicken, fresh lettuce, grape tomatoes, and cucumbers. At around 350 calories and 25g of protein, it's a light but satisfying option, particularly if you go with a vinaigrette or light dressing.

Price: $8.99

This meat-free sandwich is a winner with roasted sweet potatoes, greens, goat cheese, and hummus on whole-grain bread. It's around 430 calories with 8g of fiber and plenty of flavor. A great choice for plant-based eaters or anyone cutting back on red meat.

Price: $8.99

This flavorful flatbread is a balanced option for those craving something warm and satisfying without going overboard. Made with grilled chicken, mozzarella, tomatoes, and a light pesto sauce, it is about 490 calories and 28g of protein. 

The thin flatbread keeps carbs in check, and you still get the heart-healthy fats from the pesto and a dose of calcium from the cheese.

You don't have to sacrifice your health or your wallet when eating on the go. These 15 picks prove that with a little strategy, you can find nutritious, budget-friendly meals at just about any fast food chain. 

Want to stretch your savings even further? Here are the top grocery saving hacks to keep your overall food budget in check.