A dietitian explains why you should consider Chili’s Guiltless Grill Menu if you want to get lean.
Enjoying Dining Out While Dieting
On a diet? No problem! You can still head to Chili’s for a delicious meal. You heard that right—you don’t have to avoid one of your favorite restaurant chains when counting calories and watching your waistline. The key to successful weight loss is knowing how to navigate the menu wherever you go. We spoke with Melissa Galich, RD, CD, from Top Nutrition Coaching, who shared the best Chili’s order for weight loss.
Focus on the Guiltless Grill Menu
If you’re trying to lose weight, Chili’s can be a treat. Galich suggests checking out the Guiltless Grill Menu. This menu features a variety of entrees that are lower in calories than other items. Choose options with lean protein, vegetables, and a controlled portion of starch, such as rice, beans, or potatoes.
1. The Ancho Salmon
Nutrition (Per Ancho Salmon):
- Calories: 620
- Fat: 31 g (Saturated Fat: 5 g)
- Sodium: 1790 mg
- Carbs: 40 g (Fiber: 5 g, Sugar: 3 g)
- Protein: 48 g
If you enjoy fish, order the Ancho Salmon. This dish features chile-rubbed Atlantic salmon topped with cilantro pesto, served with steamed broccoli and Mexican rice. It offers an impressive 48 grams of protein and five grams of fiber, both essential for satiety and weight loss, all for 620 calories.
2. The Six-Ounce Guiltless Sirloin
Nutrition (Per 6 oz. Sirloin):
- Calories: 360
- Fat: 18 g (Saturated Fat: 4.5 g)
- Sodium: 1010 mg
- Carbs: 12 g (Fiber: 6 g, Sugar: 3 g)
- Protein: 39 g
Prefer steak? The Six-Ounce Guiltless Sirloin is an excellent choice. It includes a chipotle pesto drizzle, pico de gallo, and roasted asparagus. With 39 grams of protein and six grams of fiber, this meal keeps the calorie count low at 360 calories.
3. The Santa Fe Salad
Nutrition (Per Santa Fe Salad):
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 39 g (Saturated Fat: 7 g)
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Carbs: 24 g (Fiber: 7 g, Sugar: 6 g)
- Protein: 30 g
For those craving greens, the Santa Fe Salad is another great option. It includes grilled chicken, guacamole, pico de gallo, tortilla strips, homemade ranch, and a drizzle of Santa Fe sauce. This salad has 550 calories and provides 30 grams of protein and seven grams of fiber.
Healthier Ordering Tips at Chili’s
1. Mind Your Preparation Method
Choose grilled or baked items instead of fried ones. This choice removes excess fats and calories from your meal.
2. Dressings on the Side
Ask for dressings on the side. “Dressings tend to be added in large amounts and can increase the meal’s calories quickly,” Galich advises. Dipping or adding your own dressing lets you control calories while keeping flavor.
3. Avoid Creamy Sauces and Gravies
While they enhance flavor, creamy sauces and gravies add unnecessary calories and unhealthy fats.
4. Choose Vegetables Over Fries
Opt for a vegetable side or salad instead of fries. Vegetables are more filling due to their fiber content and provide essential nutrients.
5. Skip the Cheese
Removing cheese from items like sandwiches and salads can significantly reduce fat and calorie content.
6. Manage Portions
Eat half of your meal and save the rest. “Eating less is a simple change,” Galich suggests. Sharing meals or asking for a to-go box helps reduce your calorie and fat intake.
Conclusion
Dining at Chili’s can be compatible with your weight loss goals. By choosing from the Guiltless Grill Menu and following simple ordering tips, you can enjoy a delicious meal without compromising your diet. Remember, it’s about making mindful choices that fit your lifestyle.
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