23 Best Low-Carb Fast Food Options in 2024
Finding delicious low-carb fast food options can be a challenge, but it's entirely possible to stick to your diet goals even when dining out. In 2024, numerous fast food chains have embraced the low-carb trend, offering menu items that cater to health-conscious customers. Have you ever wondered how to maintain your low-carb lifestyle while on-the-go? With a little planning and knowledge, you can enjoy satisfying meals without compromising your diet.
From bunless burgers to salad bowls and protein-packed snacks, the variety of low-carb fast food choices continues to expand. Whether you're in a rush or simply craving something quick and tasty, these options make it easier to stay on track. Curious about the low-carb fast food choices available at your favorite spots? Dive into our comprehensive guide to discover the 23 top low-carb fast food restaurants in 2024, ensuring you can enjoy your meals minus a hefty portion of carbohydrates.
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What Are the Best Low-Carb Fast Food Options?
When seeking the top low-carb fast food options, it's important to know which menu items you can choose from and where. Many fast food restaurants now provide options like lettuce-wrapped burgers, grilled chicken salads and bunless sandwiches, making it easier to enjoy a quick meal without compromising your low-carb lifestyle.
23 Best Low-Carb Fast Food Choices
1. KFC Grilled Chicken
KFC grilled chicken is an excellent low-carb fast food option for those looking to enjoy a satisfying meal without the high carbohydrate content typically found in fast food. Unlike KFC's traditional fried chicken, which is coated in a breaded crust, the grilled chicken is marinated and cooked without breading, making it a healthier choice. The grilled chicken breast, in particular, is a lean protein source with minimal carbs, fitting well into a low-carb diet. When ordering, there's no need to ask for a lettuce wrap instead of a bread bun, as the grilled chicken is naturally low in carbs. However, it’s worth noting that KFC grilled may not be available in all stores, so it's a good idea to check with your local KFC beforehand.
2. Chipotle Lifestyle Bowls
Chipotle Lifestyle Bowls are designed specifically to meet various dietary preferences, including those requiring low-carb fast food options. These bowls come pre-customized to align with low-carb guidelines, so you don't need to modify a regular order. For example, the salad bowl features romaine lettuce, barbacoa, fajita vegetables, green salsa and guacamole, all without high-carb ingredients like rice or beans. You can also add sour cream for extra flavor and fat content, enhancing the meal's richness while keeping it low in carbs. Also, inquire about Chipotle’s secret menu for further customizations. Availability may vary by location, so it's a good idea to check at your local Chipotle to ensure it offers these Lifestyle Bowls.
3. In-N-Out Protein Style Burgers
In-N-Out Protein Style Burgers are a popular choice, ideal for those looking to enjoy a delicious low-carb fast food meal. To order this In-N-Out secret menu item, simply request your burger "Protein Style," which means it will come wrapped in a lettuce wrap instead of a traditional bread bun. This modification significantly reduces the carbohydrate content, making it a great choice for low-carb dieters. The crisp lettuce wrap adds a refreshing crunch while maintaining all the flavorful elements of the classic In-N-Out burger, including the juicy beef patty, fresh vegetables and signature sauce. However, it's important to note that this option may not be available in some stores, so it's always a good idea to check with your local In-N-Out beforehand.
4. Chick-Fil-A Grilled Chicken Nuggets
Choose Chick-Fil-A's grilled chicken nuggets for an excellent low-carb fast food option without sacrificing convenience or taste. Unlike traditional breaded and fried nuggets, the grilled version is marinated in a flavorful blend of seasonings and then grilled. This makes them a healthier choice with significantly fewer carbs. With only two grams of carbohydrates per eight-count serving, they fit well into a low-carb eating plan.
5. Wendy's Avocado Chicken Salad
Wendy's avocado chicken salad is a great order that requires no modifications to fit into a low-carb diet. This salad features a mix of fresh lettuce, diced grilled chicken, creamy avocado and a blend of other vegetables, all topped with a ranch dressing. With just 10 grams of net carbs per serving, it offers a flavorful and satisfying meal without the high carbohydrate content typically found in fast food.
6. Jersey Mike's Sub Bowl
Jersey Mike's Sub Bowl stands out as an excellent low-carb fast food choice, offering a satisfying meal without the excess carbs. Essentially, it's a deconstructed traditional sub sandwich, serving its fillings in a bowl instead of on a bread roll. This innovative approach allows customers to enjoy their favorite sandwich flavors without the carb-heavy bread. Each Sub Bowl features generous portions of high-quality meats, cheeses and fresh vegetables, providing a nutritious and flavorful meal.
7. Starbucks Sous Vide Egg Bites
Starbucks’ Sous Vide Egg Bites are an excellent option for those seeking a quick, nutritious meal. Packed with wholesome ingredients like eggs, cheese and various vegetables or meats, these egg bites are all prepared using the sous vide method to enhance flavor and texture. With only about nine grams of carbohydrates per serving, they fit well into a low-carb diet without needing any modifications to the order.
8. Taco Bell Doritos Locos Tacos
For a surprisingly good low-carb fast food order, opt for Taco Bell's Doritos Locos Tacos. To make this popular item low-carb, simply order the taco without the shell and request a lettuce wrap instead. By ditching the shell, you cut the carb count while still enjoying the succulent seasoned beef, lettuce and cheese. You can also add guacamole or extra veggies to enhance the taste and nutritional value without adding many carbs.
9. Jack in the Box Chicken Club Salad
The Jack in the Box club salad with grilled chicken is a great low-carb fast food option. This salad includes grilled chicken, crispy bacon, shredded cheese and fresh vegetables, providing a satisfying and nutritious meal with minimal carbs. To keep it low-carb, ensure you skip any croutons and opt for a low-carb dressing like a vinaigrette instead of creamy, higher-carb options.
10. Popeyes Blackened Tenders
Popeyes’ Blackened Tenders offer a flavorful and satisfying low-carb fast food choice. These tenders are seasoned with a blend of spices and then cooked to perfection. Unlike traditional fried chicken options, Popeyes’ Blackened Tenders are not breaded or battered. This means you can enjoy a delicious and protein-packed meal without worrying about excess carbs.
11. Carl's Jr. Lettuce Wrap Burgers
Opt for a lettuce-wrapped Carl's Jr. burger for an exceptional low-carb fast food choice that won't compromise on flavor or convenience. Instead of a traditional bread bun, you can get any burger on the menu wrapped in crisp, fresh lettuce, providing a delicious and carb-conscious alternative. Additionally, the lettuce wrap enhances the overall texture and taste of the burger, creating a lighter and refreshing experience.
12. Quiznos Soups
Quiznos soups can be a good low-carb order for those seeking a quick and healthy meal. While Quiznos is primarily known for its sandwiches, its soup offerings provide a flavorful and relatively low-carb alternative. Many of the soups, such as the broccoli cheese or chicken noodle, are lower in carbohydrates compared to their sandwich counterparts. However, it's essential to note that some soups may contain higher carb ingredients like potatoes or pasta, so it's advisable to check the nutritional information beforehand.
13. Arby's Classic Beef ‘N Cheddar
Arby's Classic Beef ‘N Cheddar can be a great low-carb fast food option with a few modifications. By requesting no bun, you can significantly reduce the carbohydrate content of the meal. The sandwich contains a generous portion of roast beef topped with cheddar cheese and red ranch sauce. To lower the carbs even further, ask for the sandwich without the sauce, while still enjoying a satisfying and flavorful meal.
14. Carl's Jr.'s Chicken Soft Taco
Carl's Jr.'s Chicken Soft Taco stands out as a completely customizable low-carb fast food. By simply requesting the taco without the tortilla shell and opting for a lettuce wrap instead, you can reduce the carb content while still enjoying the chicken, cheese, lettuce and tomato fillings. You can further enhance its low-carb appeal by skipping any high-carb condiments like salsa or dressing.
15. Panera Bread Green Goddess Cobb Salad
Opt for Panera Bread's Green Goddess Cobb Salad and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by this healthy low-carb fast food choice. This salad features a medley of fresh ingredients including mixed greens, chicken, avocado, eggs, bacon, tomatoes and cucumber, all topped with a flavorful green goddess dressing. What makes it particularly appealing for low-carb diets is that it's already naturally low in carbohydrates, with the majority of the carbs coming from the vegetables. This salad offers a delicious and satisfying option for anyone looking to enjoy low-carb fast food without sacrificing taste.
16. Dunkin' Donuts Snackin' Bacon
Dunkin's Snackin' Bacon can be a suitable low-carb fast food option, especially for those looking to minimize carbohydrate intake whilst still enjoying their most indulgent favorites. This snack features crispy, savory bacon strips that are flavorful and satisfying, providing a source of protein without added sugars or carbs. Snackin' Bacon is naturally low-carb and is an excellent grab-and-go option for individuals searching for low-carb fast food menu items.
17. Hardee's Bacon, Egg and Cheese Biscuit
Hardee's bacon, egg and cheese biscuit stands out as a great low-carb fast food choice. This breakfast dish features a folded egg, American cheese and bacon sandwiched between a fluffy biscuit, providing a satisfying meal without the high carbohydrate content. To further lower the carb content, you can remove the biscuit and still have a delicious and convenient option for when you're looking to indulge in low-carb fast food. This modification makes it easier to stick to a low-carb diet without sacrificing taste or convenience. It's a good option for breakfast on-the-go, offering a protein-rich start to your day.
18. Checkers Classic Wings
For those adhering to a low-carb fast food diet, order Checkers’ classic wings. These wings are typically grilled or fried without breading, making them naturally low in carbohydrates. They can be enjoyed as they are, providing a flavorful and satisfying meal without the extra carbs. Overall, Checkers classic wings offer a conveniently delicious low-carb fast food option for those craving a savory snack or meal.
19. Firehouse Subs Hook & Ladder Salad
The Firehouse Subs Hook & Ladder Salad is one of the top low-carb fast food options around. Instead of the traditional sub sandwich, this salad offers a satisfying alternative for those following a low-carb diet. The salad features a base of fresh, crisp lettuce topped with smoked turkey breast, honey ham, Monterey Jack cheese, cucumbers, tomatoes and green bell peppers. With a protein-rich foundation and plenty of fresh toppings, it provides a nutritious meal while keeping carbohydrate intake in check.
20. Shake Shack Chicken Bites
Shake Shack's Chicken Bites offer a delicious low-carb fast food menu item, particularly for those on a reduced carbohydrate diet. These tender, juicy chicken bites are made from all-natural chicken breast, providing a protein-rich option that can help keep you satisfied. By skipping the bun and enjoying the chicken bites on their own or with a side salad, you can create a satisfying low-carb fast food meal. Check out the Shake Shake secret menu for more low-carb fast food options.
21. McDonald’s Breakfast Sandwich Without the Bread
Opting for a McDonald’s breakfast sandwich without the bread bun can be a smart choice for those seeking low-carb fast food choices. By foregoing the bun, you can cut the carbohydrate content of the meal. For example, the egg McMuffin, a popular breakfast choice, consists of an English muffin, egg, Canadian bacon and cheese. By omitting the English muffin and enjoying the sandwich as a lettuce wrap instead, you can indulge in a satisfying breakfast without compromising your low-carb lifestyle.
22. Subway Bowls
Subway's bowls offer a convenient and customizable low-carb fast food option for carb-conscious diners. Unlike traditional sandwiches, Subway's bowls allow you to enjoy your favorite fillings without the bread. Simply opt for a protein-rich base such as grilled chicken, turkey or steak and load up on fresh veggies and toppings of your choice. With the flexibility to customize your order, Subway's bowls can be easily adapted into a low-carb lifestyle.
23. Dairy Queen Original Cheeseburger Without the Bun or Ketchup
Dairy Queen’s cheeseburger without a bun or ketchup is a great low-carb fast food option for those watching their carbohydrate intake. It's important to request this menu item without ketchup if you're on a low-carb diet, as ketchup is high in sugar. By choosing this protein-packed burger, you can enjoy a flavorful and filling low-carb meal.
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Exploring the various low-carb fast food restaurants available out there just goes to show that you can go light on the carbs even when dining out. Whether you're in the mood for a classic lettuce-wrapped burger, inventive protein bowls minus the rice or zesty salads with tons of fresh produce, fast food establishments are continuously expanding their menus to accommodate diverse dietary needs.
With the increasing popularity of low-carb diets, this selection highlights the range and ingenuity found within the fast food industry, providing convenient and tasty options for those seeking to limit their carb consumption. Try out the wide range of menu items available and discover new low-carb favorites from these top fast food choices!
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