In an ideal world, we’d cook an elaborate spread for every meal. But fast food is sometimes the only option.
According to the current dietary guidelines set by the USDA, it’s best to eat a variety of protein foods from sources like lean poultry and meat, seafood, legumes, nuts and seeds. The exact amount you should consume will vary depending on your age, sex, height, weight and physical activity, but about 7 grams for every 20 pounds of bodyweight is a general guide.
Luckily, there are plenty of restaurant chains with options that offer a boost of satisfying protein (and not just refined carbs). From a McDonald’s McDouble to Starbucks’s convenient protein boxes, here are the 16 best high-protein fast food meals at some of the most popular chains around.