Here's What You Should Be Ordering At Chipotle, According To A Nutritionist
Eating healthy isn't easy, especially with busy schedules that often lead you to the drive-thru window or Grubhub. But what if I told you there were healthy options at one of our favorite fast-casual spots?
"In all honesty, as a registered dietitian, Chipotle tops my go-to list for quick, easy meals, that can be nutritious," said Diana Rodriguez, MS, RD, CDN at New York City Nutrition. "Whether you're keto, vegan, trying to lose weight, or gaining muscle, you can build a healthy Chipotle order in no time."
Healthy means different things for everyone, and a well-balanced meal will look different depending on your goals, dietary restrictions, and preferences.
"The good thing is that Chipotle offers a flexible menu and has the potential to be a nutritious option for anyone with different dietary needs," said Rodriguez. "For example, they provide a range of vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains."
These are some of the healthiest meals to order at Chipotle, depending on your needs.
Losing Weight
If losing weight is your key goal, Rodriguez recommends a steak salad bowl with lettuce, black beans, fajita veggies, tomato salsa, and guacamole.
Keto and Paleo
For those following the keto diet, the key is to avoid any ingredients with a lot of carbs (RIP tortillas, rice, and beans) and sticking to proteins, vegetables, and higher-fat options, according to Rodriguez. She recommends the steak salad bowl.
Diabetic
"If you have diabetes, it is important to note that some Chipotle meals can have hidden carbs," she said, adding that eating a balanced meal is key to stabilizing blood sugar. For approximately 53 grams of carbohydrates, you can order three tacos with crispy corn tortillas with steak or chicken, and top with fajita veggies, pico de gallo, tomatillo salsa, guac, and lettuce. In this meal, the crispy corn shells have fewer carbohydrates than the soft shells, the protein stabilizes blood sugar, and the added veggies and salsa provides fiber to keep you full.
Gluten-Free
"If you are someone who has celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder where eating gluten causes an immune response that damages your small intestine, there is still hope when it comes to eating at Chipotle," said Rodriguez. Flour tortillas contain gluten so she recommends skipping burritos and quesadillas and opting for tacos with corn tortillas, burrito bowls, or salads.
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