Taco Bell stands out as a versatile fast-food chain that offers a variety of customizable options to cater to different dietary preferences. With options like swapping meat for beans or choosing lower-calorie ingredients, Taco Bell makes it possible to enjoy a fast meal without compromising health.
Dietitians highlight some of the healthiest choices at Taco Bell to help you navigate your next order. Here’s a detailed guide to Taco Bell’s most nutritious options:
How To Order Healthier at Taco Bell
Dietitian Tips:
- Boost Protein and Fiber: Both help keep you fuller for longer and prevent overeating.
- Make It Fresco: This swap replaces calorie-dense ingredients like sour cream and cheese with pico de gallo, cutting down on calories and fat.
- Practice Portion Control: Stick to one serving to avoid excessive calorie intake.
8 Healthiest Taco Bell Menu Items
1. Crunchy Taco
- Calories: 170
- Fat: 10 g (3.5 g saturated)
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Protein: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
The classic Crunchy Taco features beef, lettuce, and cheese. It provides 8 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber, helping to keep you full longer without the excess calories. A single taco keeps it simple, making it a great choice when you’re looking for a lighter meal.
2. Cantina Chicken Bowl
- Calories: 490
- Fat: 24 g (7 g saturated)
- Sodium: 1,150 mg
- Protein: 25 g
- Fiber: 11 g
Packed with grilled chicken, rice, black beans, lettuce, and guacamole, the Cantina Chicken Bowl is nutrient-dense and filling. Although the sodium content is high, you can cut back by skipping the cheese or salsa. The bowl’s fiber and protein help keep you satisfied for longer.
3. Veggie Bowl
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 20 g (6 g saturated)
- Sodium: 870 mg
- Protein: 13 g
- Fiber: 10 g
This vegetarian-friendly bowl offers plenty of fiber-rich vegetables, black beans, and healthy fats from guacamole. It’s a great option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet while enjoying 13 grams of protein and 10 grams of fiber.
4. Black Bean Chalupa Supreme
- Calories: 340
- Fat: 18 g (4 g saturated)
- Sodium: 460 mg
- Protein: 10 g
- Fiber: 6 g
The Black Bean Chalupa Supreme offers 10 grams of protein and 6 grams of fiber from plant-based ingredients. It’s a heart-healthy choice that still offers Taco Bell’s signature flavors without too much added fat or sodium.
5. Cheesy Bean & Rice Burrito
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 16 g (4 g saturated)
- Sodium: 920 mg
- Protein: 9 g
- Fiber: 7 g
Despite its cheesy flavor, this burrito is a plant-based option rich in fiber and protein. The beans provide antioxidants and are packed with essential nutrients, making this a balanced, energy-boosting choice.
6. Soft Taco with Chicken
- Calories: 160
- Fat: 5 g (2.5 g saturated)
- Sodium: 510 mg
- Protein: 12 g
For a lighter meal option, the Soft Taco with Chicken provides 12 grams of lean protein and is just 160 calories. It’s perfect for a quick bite when you want a lower-calorie option without sacrificing taste.
7. Black Bean Crunchwrap Supreme
- Calories: 520
- Fat: 18 g (5 g saturated)
- Sodium: 1,100 mg
- Protein: 13 g
- Fiber: 7 g
This plant-based version of the Crunchwrap offers protein, fiber, and antioxidants from black beans, a healthy alternative to animal-based protein. Although it’s a bit higher in calories, it provides essential nutrients, making it a wholesome meal.
8. Side of Black Beans & Rice
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 4 g
- Sodium: 390 mg
- Protein: 5 g
- Fiber: 6 g
For a light side dish, the vegan-friendly Black Beans and Rice offers a good dose of fiber and plant-based protein, keeping your meal balanced without overloading on calories or fat.
Conclusion:
Taco Bell offers a wide range of customizable and dietitian-approved options, whether you’re looking to increase protein, fiber, or reduce calories. From the protein-packed Cantina Chicken Bowl to plant-based options like the Black Bean Chalupa Supreme, there’s something for everyone.
With smart swaps and moderation, you can enjoy a flavorful Taco Bell meal without sacrificing your health goals.
