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Fast food and Chicago often go hand in hand, with the city boasting a vibrant culinary scene. From the renowned deep-dish pizza joints to the iconic hot dog stands, the Windy City knows how to satisfy any craving. However, amid the delectable indulgences, many health-conscious individuals may find it challenging to locate nutritious options at fast food restaurants in Chicago. So, if you're on a quest for healthier fast-food options, you're in luck! In this blog, we will guide you through some of the healthiest fast food choices available in Chicago, ensuring you can enjoy delicious fare without compromising your well-being. So, without further ado, let's unveil.
Healthiest Choices for Fast Foods — Find Balance Amidst the Classics
Iconic Hot Dog Restaurants
When visiting a famous Chicago hot dog restaurant, you don't have to skip this quintessential experience to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Instead of forgoing the hot dog entirely, opt for a few simple modifications to transform it into a healthier option. Choose a whole-grain bun over the traditional white bun to add more fiber to your meal. Additionally, consider turkey or chicken sausages to reduce saturated fat consumption over regular beef or pork sausages. Add fresh veggies like tomatoes, onions, and pickles to your hot dog, providing nutritious benefits and a taste without extra calories.
Embrace Salads with a Chicago Twist
Deep-Dish Salad Pizzas
Deep-dish pizza is undoubtedly a Chicago staple, but the caloric content can be overwhelming. Many pizzerias now offer a delightful concoction — deep-dish salad pizzas. These innovative creations substitute the carb-heavy crust with a bed of fresh, crisp lettuce. The toppings remain the same, offering the same scrumptious flavors while significantly reducing the overall calorie count.
Customized Salad Bars
Do you know Chicago's numerous fast food facilities have recently introduced a "build-your-own salad bar?" It allows you to craft your nutritious salad, packed with nutrient-dense veggies, lean proteins, and healthy fats. So, embrace this delightful opportunity to tantalize your taste buds with your created healthy and nutritious salad!
You can choose leafy greens like spinach or kale as a base and fill the top with a colorful blend of veggies, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, and carrots. Add lean protein sources like grilled chicken or tofu to elevate the taste and satiate your hunger.
Mindful Beverage Choices
Fresh Fruit Smoothies
Nothing beats a refreshing drink to cool down on a scorching hot day! But if you're health conscious, avoid sugary drinks instead of fresh fruit smoothies. With comprising real fruit, yogurt, and greens like spinach or kale, smoothies are now available at many fast-food establishments and even in varied options. These delectable mixtures provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, benefiting your overall health.
Hydration
Water is always the best beverage option, no matter which fast food place you visit. Staying hydrated counts for general health and can help reduce between-meal snacking. So, to satiate your thirst without adding extra calories or sugar to your meal, request a glass of water or bring your reusable water bottle.
Healthy Sides
Say Yes to Grilled, No to Fried
When it comes to side dishes, opt for grilled rather than fried options, as grilling reduces the amount of added fats and calories, making it a much healthier option. Moreover, many fast food establishments offer grilled chicken sandwiches or grilled vegetable wraps as alternatives to the classic fried selections.
Veggies as Sidekicks
While sifting through side dish options, consider vegetables instead of french fries or onion rings. Many restaurants now offer side salads or fresh vegetable cups, providing essential nutrients and fiber while keeping calorie counts in check.
Conclusion
Using this guide, you can easily discover the healthiest fast food alternatives available in the bustling city of Chicago. From iconic hot dog restaurants to famous pizzerias, numerous ways are there to tantalize your taste buds while nourishing your body. Make healthier choices without compromising flavors or depriving yourself of local gastronomic delights. It all comes down to balance and being conscious of what you eat.
