Hardee’s, a popular American fast-food chain, is known for its mouth-watering burgers, delicious breakfast items, and scrumptious sides. While the taste of their food is undeniable, many health-conscious individuals may find themselves wondering about the nutritional value of Hardee’s menu items. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into Hardee’s nutrition, providing you with the information you need to make healthier choices when dining at this fast-food favorite.
A Look at Hardee’s Nutrition
When it comes to fast food, it’s no secret that many menu items can be high in calories, fat, and sodium. Hardee’s is no exception, with some of their most popular items like the Monster Thickburger and the Loaded Omelet Biscuit packing a hefty caloric punch. However, it’s essential to remember that not all menu items are created equal, and there are healthier options available at Hardee’s.
To help you make informed decisions when dining at Hardee’s, we’ve compiled a list of some of the healthier menu items, along with their nutritional information:
1. Low Carb It: Thickburger
If you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking to cut back on carbs, Hardee’s offers the Low Carb It option for their Thickburgers. By swapping out the bun for a lettuce wrap, you can significantly reduce the number of carbs in your meal. For example, a 1/3 lb. Low Carb It Cheeseburger contains 370 calories, 28g of fat, 4g of carbs, and 23g of protein.
2. Charbroiled BBQ Chicken Sandwich
For those looking for a lighter sandwich option, the Charbroiled BBQ Chicken Sandwich is an excellent choice. This sandwich features a charbroiled chicken breast, lettuce, tomato, and tangy BBQ sauce on a honey wheat bun. It contains 390 calories, 7g of fat, 45g of carbs, and 36g of protein.
3. Side Salad
Instead of opting for fries or onion rings, consider choosing a side salad to accompany your meal. Hardee’s side salad includes lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and shredded cheese. Without dressing, the salad contains only 90 calories, 6g of fat, 5g of carbs, and 4g of protein. To keep the calorie count low, opt for a light dressing or use only a small amount of your preferred dressing.
4. Egg and Cheese Biscuit
For a lighter breakfast option, the Egg and Cheese Biscuit is a solid choice. This simple biscuit sandwich contains 430 calories, 27g of fat, 34g of carbs, and 13g of protein. To further reduce the calorie count, consider asking for your biscuit without cheese.
5. Hand-Scooped Ice Cream Shake (Small)
If you’re craving something sweet, a small Hand-Scooped Ice Cream Shake can satisfy your sweet tooth without going overboard on calories. A small vanilla shake contains 460 calories, 21g of fat, 58g of carbs, and 10g of protein. While this isn’t the healthiest option on the menu, it’s a better choice than some of the larger, more indulgent dessert options.
While Hardee’s may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of healthy dining options, it’s possible to make healthier choices when eating at this fast-food chain. By opting for lower-calorie, lower-fat menu items and making simple swaps like choosing a lettuce wrap instead of a bun, you can enjoy a meal at Hardee’s without derailing your health goals. Keep this guide in mind the next time you find yourself craving a delicious Hardee’s meal, and remember that moderation is key when it comes to fast food.