When it comes to fast food, it’s no secret that many menu items are high in calories, fat, and sodium. However, with the growing trend of healthier eating, many fast food chains are now offering more nutritious options for their customers. One such chain is Zaxby’s, a popular restaurant known for its delicious chicken fingers, wings, and salads. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore Zaxby’s nutrition and provide tips on how to make healthier choices when dining at this popular fast food joint.
Zaxby’s Nutrition Overview
Zaxby’s offers a variety of menu items, ranging from indulgent fried chicken to lighter salads and sandwiches. While many of their dishes are high in calories and fat, there are also several healthier options available. To help you make informed decisions when dining at Zaxby’s, we’ve broken down the nutrition information for some of their most popular menu items.
1. Chicken Finger Plate: This classic Zaxby’s dish features their famous chicken fingers, crinkle fries, coleslaw, and Texas toast. While delicious, this meal is high in calories, fat, and sodium, with a total of 1,470 calories, 82 grams of fat, and 2,920 milligrams of sodium. To make this dish healthier, consider swapping out the fries for a side salad and skipping the Texas toast.
2. Grilled Chicken Sandwich: For a lighter sandwich option, try the Grilled Chicken Sandwich, which contains 580 calories, 24 grams of fat, and 1,410 milligrams of sodium. While still on the higher side for sodium, this sandwich is a better choice than the fried chicken options.
3. Zalads: Zaxby’s offers a variety of salads, or “Zalads,” which can be a healthier option when dining out. The Grilled Chicken Caesar Zalad contains 410 calories, 23 grams of fat, and 1,340 milligrams of sodium. To further reduce the calorie and fat content, consider asking for the dressing on the side and using it sparingly.
4. Kiddie Fingerz: If you’re dining with children, the Kiddie Fingerz meal is a more nutritious option than the adult-sized Chicken Finger Plate. This meal contains 420 calories, 20 grams of fat, and 1,010 milligrams of sodium, making it a more balanced choice for little ones.
Tips for Making Healthier Choices at Zaxby’s
While Zaxby’s does offer some healthier options, it’s essential to be mindful of portion sizes and additional toppings that can quickly add calories, fat, and sodium to your meal. Here are some tips for making healthier choices at Zaxby’s:
1. Choose grilled over fried: Whenever possible, opt for grilled chicken instead of fried. Grilled chicken is lower in calories and fat, making it a more nutritious option.
2. Be mindful of sides: Instead of choosing high-calorie sides like fries or onion rings, opt for a side salad or celery sticks. This simple swap can save you hundreds of calories and help you stay on track with your health goals.
3. Watch the dressings and sauces: Many of Zaxby’s dressings and sauces are high in calories and fat. Ask for these on the side and use them sparingly to avoid adding unnecessary calories to your meal.
4. Opt for water or unsweetened tea: Sugary drinks can quickly add calories to your meal without providing any nutritional value. Choose water or unsweetened tea to stay hydrated without consuming extra calories.
While Zaxby’s is known for its indulgent fried chicken and delicious sauces, there are healthier options available for those looking to make more nutritious choices when dining out. By being mindful of portion sizes, choosing grilled over fried, and paying attention to sides and dressings, you can enjoy a satisfying meal at Zaxby’s without derailing your health goals.