Eating out at chain restaurants doesn’t have to derail your health goals. Many popular spots now offer nutrient-dense, balanced meals that won’t sabotage your diet. Here are 10 of the healthiest dishes you can order at chain restaurants, allowing you to enjoy a meal out without the guilt.

1. Panera Bread: Mediterranean Bowl with Chicken

Panera is known for its healthy options, and the Mediterranean Bowl is no exception. This bowl is packed with quinoa, arugula, cucumber, hummus, and grilled chicken, delivering a well-rounded meal with healthy fats, lean protein, and fiber.

Why it’s great: With around 590 calories and 29 grams of protein, it’s filling without being heavy. Plus, the mix of veggies, legumes, and grains makes it a powerhouse of nutrients.

2. Chipotle: Chicken Burrito Bowl with Brown Rice

Chipotle allows you to customize your meal, and one of the best choices for health-conscious eaters is the chicken burrito bowl with brown rice, black beans, fajita veggies, salsa, and lettuce. Skip the sour cream and cheese to keep it light.

Why it’s great: This meal delivers lean protein, fiber, and healthy carbs. With roughly 500-600 calories (depending on toppings), it’s a satisfying option packed with real, whole ingredients.

3. Chick-fil-A: Grilled Nuggets and Superfood Side

Chick-fil-A offers a lighter twist on fast food with their grilled chicken nuggets, paired perfectly with their Superfood Side, which features kale, broccolini, and a light vinaigrette.

Why it’s great: The grilled nuggets are a low-fat, high-protein option, and the Superfood Side provides a dose of greens and antioxidants. Combined, this meal is under 400 calories and offers 30 grams of protein.

4. Applebee’s: Grilled Chicken Breast with Steamed Broccoli

Applebee’s offers a variety of lighter fare, and the grilled chicken breast paired with steamed broccoli is a simple, healthy choice. Opt for a side salad or seasonal veggies instead of fries to keep it lean.

Why it’s great: This dish is low in calories (about 550) and offers a good balance of lean protein and fiber from the vegetables.

5. The Cheesecake Factory: Skinnylicious Grilled Salmon

Despite its reputation for oversized portions, The Cheesecake Factory’s Skinnylicious menu offers healthier options. The grilled salmon comes with fresh vegetables and is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and protein.

Why it’s great: At only 590 calories, it’s a nutrient-rich, heart-healthy meal that still satisfies with great flavor.

6. Olive Garden: Herb-Grilled Salmon

Another great salmon option comes from Olive Garden, where their herb-grilled salmon is served with broccoli and sits at just 460 calories. It’s a perfect option for those looking for a low-carb, high-protein meal.

Why it’s great: Salmon is loaded with healthy fats and protein, and broccoli adds fiber and essential vitamins, making this a wholesome and balanced dish.

7. P.F. Chang’s: Buddha’s Feast (Steamed)

P.F. Chang’s offers a variety of vegetable-heavy dishes, but the steamed Buddha’s Feast is one of the healthiest. It features a mix of tofu, broccoli, asparagus, mushrooms, and carrots for a nutrient-packed, plant-based meal.

Why it’s great: At around 400 calories, this dish is vegan-friendly, full of vitamins, and a great source of plant-based protein and fiber.

8. Subway: Turkey Breast Salad

Subway is known for its sandwiches, but their salads are often the healthier choice. The turkey breast salad, loaded with fresh veggies and lean turkey breast, is a low-calorie, high-protein option perfect for a light meal.

Why it’s great: With around 200-300 calories (without dressing), it’s an incredibly light yet satisfying choice packed with protein and fiber to keep you full.

9. Red Lobster: Garlic Grilled Shrimp

Red Lobster’s Garlic Grilled Shrimp, served with a side of fresh broccoli, is a lean, protein-packed meal with heart-healthy omega-3s and fiber. Skip the butter-soaked biscuits to keep the calories in check.

Why it’s great: With only 430 calories and 24 grams of protein, this dish offers a tasty, low-calorie seafood option that’s rich in nutrients.

10. Outback Steakhouse: Grilled Chicken on the Barbie

Outback Steakhouse has more than just steaks. Their Grilled Chicken on the Barbie is a flavorful, lean protein option that pairs well with fresh seasonal veggies.

Why it’s great: This dish comes in at around 500 calories and offers 45 grams of protein, making it an ideal meal for those looking to maintain muscle while keeping calories in check.

Final Thoughts

Eating healthy at chain restaurants is possible if you know what to look for. By opting for lean proteins, vegetables, and nutrient-rich grains, you can enjoy a meal out without sabotaging your diet. Next time you’re dining out, choose one of these nutritious dishes to stay on track with your health and fitness goals.