Low-Calorie, High Protein Options at Carl’s Jr.
Carl's Jr., a fast-food chain famous for its burgers and fries, also offers options for those seeking healthier, low-calorie, high-protein meals. This guide will assist you in navigating Carl's Jr.'s menu to make choices that align with your dietary goals, allowing you to enjoy your meal without sacrificing nutrition.
1. Charbroiled Chicken Salad
Calories: Approximately 280 calories (without dressing).
Protein: Around 32 grams.
Description: A fresh salad featuring charbroiled chicken breast, red onions, tomato, cucumber, and shredded cheese. Choose a light dressing to keep it low in calories.
2. Charbroiled BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Calories: About 390 calories.
Protein: Approximately 30 grams.
Description: A charbroiled chicken breast with lettuce, tomato, and BBQ sauce on a whole wheat bun. It’s a flavorful, high-protein alternative to a beef burger.
3. Turkey Burger
Calories: Roughly 490 calories.
Protein: Around 29 grams.
Description: A lean ground turkey patty with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and mayonnaise on a honey wheat bun. A healthier option compared to traditional beef burgers.
4. Low Carb Charbroiled Chicken Club Sandwich
Calories: Approximately 340 calories.
Protein: About 29 grams.
Description: A charbroiled chicken breast with bacon, Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise, served in a lettuce wrap instead of a bun for a lower carb option.
5. Charbroiled Chicken Breast
Calories: Around 130 calories (chicken only).
Protein: Approximately 29 grams.
Description: A simple grilled chicken breast that can be added to a salad or eaten as a high-protein, low-calorie meal component.
6. Garden Side Salad
Calories: About 110 calories (without dressing).
Protein: Less than 2 grams.
Description: A side salad with mixed greens, red onions, cucumber, and tomato. Add a charbroiled chicken breast to increase protein content.
7. Veg It® Sandwich
Calories: Roughly 290 calories.
Protein: Approximately 6 grams.
Description: A vegetarian option with lettuce, tomato, red onion, cucumber, and mayonnaise on a honey wheat bun. For more protein, add a charbroiled chicken breast.
8. Charbroiled Atlantic Cod Fish Sandwich (Seasonal)
Calories: Approximately 420 calories.
Protein: About 14 grams.
Description: A charbroiled Atlantic cod fillet with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce on a honey wheat bun. A lighter, protein-rich alternative to traditional fried fish sandwiches.
9. Grilled Chicken Burrito (Customized)
Calories: Varies depending on customization.
Protein: High with grilled chicken.
Description: Customize a grilled chicken burrito with extra vegetables and light on the cheese and sour cream for a healthier, protein-packed meal.
10. Lettuce-Wrapped Original Thickburger® (1/3 lb., Customized)
Calories: About 420 calories.
Protein: Approximately 28 grams.
Description: Enjoy the Original Thickburger® wrapped in lettuce instead of a bun, with a 1/3 lb. beef patty, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, and mustard.
Smart Eating at Carl's Jr.
At Carl's Jr., making healthier choices involves selecting charbroiled options, customizing your meals to reduce calorie content, and opting for salads and wraps. By choosing items like charbroiled chicken sandwiches, lettuce-wrapped burgers, and turkey burgers, you can enjoy the flavors of Carl's Jr. while adhering to a health-conscious diet. Keep these options in mind during your next visit to Carl's Jr. for a meal that satisfies both your taste buds and nutritional needs.
