If you are craving fast food but are on a weight loss journey, I’ve found the best low-calorie fast food ideas to help you stay on track and still get a delicious meal.
Who doesn’t love fast food? It’s a quick and delicious meal. However, most meals are high in calories, sugar, fats, and sodium. This makes them an unhealthy option.
Keep reading to find out what are the best 31 low-calorie fast-food ideas you can create in your kitchen.
1. Wendy’s Chili Copycat Recipe
Source: twopinkpeonies.com
I love a big bowl of Wendy’s chili. But, since it provides so many calories, it always makes me second guess if I should have it.
Fortunately, I found this healthier option I can make in my kitchen.
This recipe only has 233 per serving. And the good news is that it only has 6 grams of carbs and 14 grams of protein.
It is a great option for those cold nights when you want something warm but filling and low in calories.
This is one of the best healthy crockpot recipes for dinner!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 233
- Fats: 16g
- Protein: 14g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
2. Mini Pizzas
Source: healthykidsrecipes.com
It’s Friday night, and the family knows it’s pizza night. However, you are trying to lose weight but don’t want to let your family down and make excuses.
These mini pizzas are a healthy option that your whole family is going to enjoy.
The best thing is that you can do this recipe as a fun family activity. Grab each person’s favorite ingredient, and start creating delicious pizzas at home.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 103
- Fats: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
3. Oven Baked Hashbrowns
Source: hungryhealthyhappy.com
With only 107 calories per serving, this hashbrown recipe is a great side dish to have for breakfast or brunch with your friends.
Add a couple of fried or scrambled eggs, and you’ll have a delicious meal that only takes 35 minutes to make.
Try making this recipe with sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. Even though they might not be as crispy, it is simply delicious.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 107
- Fats: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
4. KFC Copycat Chicken Tenders
Source: how2doketo.com
Kids love chicken tenders. But, if you want to avoid giving them a highly processed meal, you might want to keep this recipe saved.
These KFC copycat chicken tenders are a great lunch option for your kids. The best thing is that they are so similar to KFC’s regular chicken tender that they won’t know the difference.
Just be careful about the sauces you add on the side since they can add unwanted calories, sugars, and fats.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 218
- Fats: 17g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 1g
5. Big Mac Salad
Source: lowcarbyum.com
This Big Mac Salad is an excellent option if you are craving a Big Mac but want a meal low in calories and carbs.
This keto-friendly option only offers 272 calories and merely 2 grams of carbs.
One of the things I love about this recipe is the dressing. You can keep it in a Mason jar and add them to other recipes. For example, you can add it to your favorite chicken wrap.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 273
- Fats: 21g
- Protein: 19g
- Carbs: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
6. Egg Rolls
Source: bellyfull.net
If I’m in the mood for Chinese food, I love to order egg rolls. They are crispy on the outside and so flavorful on the inside. These egg rolls are a great option since each roll has only 83 calories.
Now, you might be wondering how is that possible.
And the answer is simple.
Instead of frying them, you use the air fryer. This is definitely a recipe worth trying if you love egg rolls as much as I do but want a low-calorie option.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 83
- Fats: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
7. Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
Source: healthykidsrecipes.com
We know kids love chicken nuggets. If you want to give your kids healthy, nutritious, and delicious nuggets, this is the recipe you need to try.
Now, I know what you are thinking. Kids are very picky. They’ll know they are not the real deal.
But rest assured that they won’t know that these nuggets are store-bought, low in calories, and incredibly healthy.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 64
- Fats: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 4g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 0.3g
8. Chick-fil-A Grilled Nuggets
Source: thefeatherednester.com
You are driving home and suddenly want some delicious Chick-fil-A grilled nuggets. I mean, who doesn’t love these nuggets?
But, you remembered that you have a nearly perfect alternative recipe. Making them a healthier option and allowing you to save money.
These grilled chicken nuggets are juicy and full of flavor. Make some air fryer French fries, and you’ve got yourself a healthy fast-food meal.
These nuggets are perfect for when you need easy high protein meals in a pinch!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 197
- Fats: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
9. Vegan Orange Chicken
Source: thishealthykitchen.com
Looking for a recipe for meatless Mondays? Ditch the Asian meal you just bought and try this vegan orange chicken instead.
You’ll need maple syrup, broth, orange, tamari, soy curls, rice vinegar, ginger, red peppers, mushrooms, and garlic powder to make the recipe.
With so many rich foods, each bite you take will be bursting with flavor.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 203
- Fats: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Carbs: 32g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 21g
10. Bang Bang Chicken
Source: dinner-mom.com
Deep-fried chicken with a creamy sauce. There is no better way to describe Bang Bang chicken. Instead of making them deep-fried, you place them in the air fryer to reduce their calories.
So, fewer calories but the same crunchy consistency.
You can also try switching the chicken with shrimp to have Bang Bang shrimp. And make sure you keep a jar with the delicious sauce.
You might use it for other meals, such as dipping chicken nuggets.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 227
- Fats: 5g
- Protein: 29g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
11. Chow Mein
Source: hungryhealthyhappy.com
If you love Asian takeout, this low-calorie Chow Mein is a great option if you want to cut back on calories but not on the flavor.
With only 166 calories per serving, this can be your next lunch or meal.
Keep in mind that since the recipe is low in protein, you might want to add more chicken or beef to boost the protein.
Remember that protein increases fullness levels, making weight loss easier.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 166
- Fats: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Carbs: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
12. Smash Burger Taco
Source: ohclary.com
Don’t know whether to have a Big Mac or a taco? Why not have both but a low-calorie version of them? This viral TikTok recipe is a great option if you want a healthier Big Mac.
Each serving has only 246 calories and a whopping 20 grams of protein. And they are so irresistible that you’ll keep this recipe as part of your weekly menu.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 246
- Fats: 13.5g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbs: 11g
- Fiber: 1.6g
- Sugar: 0.4g
13. Salsa Fresca Chicken
Source: easyfamilyrecipes.com
A tender chicken breast with a mouth-watering homemade salsa is placed in the oven to get all the juices flowing. This Salsa Fresca Chicken recipe has it all!
And, if you think this will take a lot of time to prepare, you are wrong! It will only take 15 minutes to prepare and 35 minutes to cook. So, you’ll have a delicious meal in less than one hour.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 171
- Fats: 8g
- Protein: 26g
- Carbs: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
14. Cheeseburger Bites
Source: masonfit.com
If you love cheeseburgers and could eat them all day, this is the perfect recipe you must try.
These cheeseburger bites are only 48 calories each, providing roughly 7 grams of protein per serving.
They are a great option for those following a keto diet, or you can have them with some sweet potato air fryer fries to balance the dish.
Or, if you want to keep the low-carb theme going, try making carrot fries.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 48
- Fats: 1.3g
- Protein: 6.8g
- Carbs: 2.3g
15. Healthy Chicken Fingers
Source: healthyseasonalrecipes.com
If you’ve had a long day and don’t want to cook, don’t drive by that fast food place. Try this recipe instead.
These healthy chicken fingers are a great lifesaver. You can make them in advance and place them in the freezer when in need.
Just take them out of the freezer, cook them, and have a delicious side to go along with it.
You can have frozen veggies or frozen French fries, and you have a quick meal that won’t make your daily calories go off the charts.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 240
- Fats: 9.4g
- Protein: 21.2g
- Carbs: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1.2g
16. Low Calorie Chicken Tenders
Source: healthbeet.org
Here is another great low-calorie chicken tender recipe. What I love about this recipe is that it uses buttermilk as one of its ingredients.
As a result, you get a crispy and delicious chicken tender that will have half the calories of fast-food chicken tenders.
Make sure you add some nutrients on the side, such as a green salad or grilled vegetables.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 135
- Fats: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 5g
17. Onion Rings
Source: simplylowcal.com
If you are looking for the best side dish to have along the chicken finger or nuggets, these onion rings are low in calories, and you won’t believe how crispy they are.
You’ll be able to create them in less than 30 minutes.
The good news is that you will only need five ingredients: onion rings, all-purpose flour, plain yogurt, breadcrumbs, and salt. All of which you can find in your pantry or fridge.
Creating healthy versions of your favorite fast foods is one of the best healthy eating habits!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 142
- Fats: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
18. Fish Fingers
Source: hungryhealthyhappy.com
These kid-friendly fish fingers only require four ingredients. Now, don’t let the short list of ingredients fool you. They are so tasty that your kids are going to want seconds.
These fish fingers only have 254 calories per serving and 29 grams of protein.
So, while they are an excellent option for your kids, if you are having a hard time reaching your protein requirements, these are going to make things easier.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 245
- Fats: 4g
- Protein: 29g
- Carbs: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
19. Copycat Popeyes Chicken Sandwich
Source: chefjar.com
One of the things I love about Popeyes is their spicy mayo. I swear that I could add that sauce to anything. So, when I came up with this recipe, I knew it wasn’t something I needed to try.
This copycat Popeyes chicken sandwich is going to be the next dish you serve at your next party.
They take less than 30 minutes to prepare, and the result is a juicy, crunchy, and creamy sandwich.
Truly, out of this world.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 223
- Fats: 9g
- Protein: 17.8g
- Carbs: 23.59g
- Fiber: 1.3g:
20. Air Fryer Fries
Source: simplylowcal.com
Throughout the round-up of the best low-calorie fast food recipes, I’ve mentioned that air fryer fries are the best low-calorie and healthy side dish.
If you don’t know how to prepare them, here is a recipe!
The best thing about this recipe is that you can make it your own. Try adding different herbs and spices to boost the flavor of the dish.
For example, I love mixing some rosemary and Parmesan cheese.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 171
- Fats: 7g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
21. Vegan Chick-fil-A Tofu Nuggets
Source: nosweatvegan.com
We previously went over a recipe that created almost identical grilled nuggets from Chick-fil-A.
If you are following a plant-based diet and are looking for the same flavors, here is a recipe you’ll want to recreate.
These vegan Chick-fil-A nuggets are a great option for those who want to decrease their consumption of animal-based products.
In fact, they are so delicious that everyone is going to want to try them.
And its creamy honey mustard sauce is out of this world, making it one of the best high protein vegetarian meals!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 171
- Fats: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 7g
22. Cheeseburger Quesadilla
Source: masonfit.com
Quesadillas or cheeseburgers? Such as tough decisions. But why not have both? This low-calorie cheeseburger quesadilla is moderate in carbs and high in protein.
If you are following a keto diet, you can simply switch the pita bread for low-carb tortillas, and it will still provide all the flavor without so many carbs.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 245
- Fats: 13g
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 11g
23. Popcorn Chicken
Source: mymorningmocha.com
They are small, crunchy, and make a great snack. I’m talking about KFC’s popcorn chicken. While I love these, I know that they are high in calories, fat, and sodium.
This popcorn chicken recipe only has 202 calories, and it will only take you 25 minutes to create.
However, keep in mind that to get all that delicious flavor, you want to leave them marinating for at least an hour.
So, while it takes only a couple of minutes to prepare and cook, you’ll want to make them several hours ahead.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 202
- Fats: 2g
- Protein:6g
- Carbs: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
24. BBQ Baked Chicken Wings
Source: hintofhealthy.com
These quick and easy baked chicken wings are going to be the next party favorite.
Whether it is football season or you simply want to indulge in some wings while watching your favorite show, these guilt-free wings are low in calories but have lots of flavor.
To make them, you need wings, BBQ sauce, herbs, spices, olive oil, and baking powder. Why baking powder?
It creates a thin layer to produce an extra crispy wing without relying on breading or frying.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 49
- Fats: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
25. Healthy Nachos
Source: masonfit.com
Nachos are great finger food, but most places make nachos with artificial ingredients, which results in a high-calorie meal that is not that tasty.
These healthy nachos are a one-of-a-kind recipe. They only have 240 calories and have 23 grams of protein. And the best thing about nachos is that you can adjust them to your needs.
Need more protein? Add more beef!
Need fewer fats? Don’t add too much sour cream!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 240
- Fats: 12g
- Protein: 23g
- Carbs: 10g
26. Panera Squash Soup
Source: rachelcooks.com
Looking for some comfort food that is low in calories? This Panera squash soup is great for the soul, and your taste buds are going to love it.
The combination of the creamy squash with the hints of curry and nutmeg is one of the best soups you’ve ever tried.
Add some protein on the side to make sure you have a more balanced dish. You have some grilled chicken or salmon.
If you are looking for healthy lunch ideas for home, this is a great option!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 210
- Fats: 9g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 31g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 16g
27. Copycat McDonalds Pancakes
Source: spoonsofflavor.com
When I don’t feel like making pancakes, my go-to place is McDonalds. Let’s face it. They have one of the most delicious and fluffy pancakes.
This copycat McDonald’s pancakes recipe is a great option when craving something sweet but with fewer calories.
You can add your favorite toppings (try it with added blueberries) or add some herbs and spices to the mix. For example, why not add some pumpkin spice?
Per Serving:
- Calories: 253
- Fats: 8g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
28. Kebab Shop Salad
Source: mymorningmocha.com
Are you in the mood for some Turkish food? You’ll love this low-calorie kebab shop salad. Each serving only has 161 calories and 14 grams of net carbs.
You can have this option as your favorite side dish or as your main meal, as long as you make some slight medications (such as adding more protein).
Per Serving:
- Calories: 161
- Fats: 8g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 22g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 13g
29. Turkish Lamb Shish Kebab
Source: mymorningmocha.com
Another great Turkish recipe is this Turkish lamb shish kebab. The combination of flavors is so refreshing and healthy that you want another serving.
The good news is that depending on your caloric needs, you can have one or two servings since each serving only has 106 calories.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 106
- Fats: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
30. Chipotle Barbacoa
Source: wholesomeyum.com
Chipotle is one of my favorite healthy fast-food meals. They have many options to choose from, depending on your needs.
But if you don’t want to leave your house or are on a budget, this Chipotle Barbacoa recipe is easy to make at home.
Now, keep in mind that this recipe needs four hours to cook. So, you’ll want to make it in advance.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 213
- Fats: 13.2g
- Protein: 22.1g
- Carbs: 1.8g
- Fiber: 0.6g
- Sugar: 0.3g
31. Taco Bell Quesadilla Sauce
Source: keytomylime.com
The final option I have for you is a Taco Bell quesadilla sauce. I love Taco Bell. But my stomach doesn’t love it as much as I do.
This recipe is not only healthy, but it reduces the risk of getting stomach cramps after having a delicious quesadilla.
While this recipe is something you can add to your quesadillas, you can also use it to dip nuggets, fish sticks, or chicken fingers.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 122
- Fats: 13g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Carbs: 0.75g