Chipotle Mexican Grill is famous for its fresh ingredients and build-your-own meals. It’s one of the most popular fast-casual chains, often viewed as a healthier alternative to traditional fast food. But is Chipotle healthy? It can be. Let’s break down what makes a Chipotle meal healthy and how to make smarter choices when customizing your order.
What Makes a Meal at Chipotle Healthy or Not?
Understanding the Build-Your-Own Format
A Chipotle meal’s healthiness depends on what ingredients you choose and how much you add. With the build-your-own format, you go down the line customizing your order—picking a base, protein, beans, salsas, and other toppings. This format allows you to make a meal that fits your dietary needs. Many dietitians and health professionals appreciate the abundance of healthy options at Chipotle, like brown rice, beans, fajita vegetables, and guacamole.
Why Fresh Doesn’t Always Mean Nutritious
Just because Chipotle uses fresh produce and meats with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives does not guarantee a healthy meal. You can rack up calories and salt quickly with certain combinations and sauces. Additionally, the typical entree at Chipotle is quite large. If you’re not careful, it’s easy to go overboard. On average, a Chipotle meal contains more than 1,000 calories—more than half of the daily intake on a 2,000-calorie-per-day diet.
Chipotle can be healthy but isn’t automatically low-calorie, low-fat, or low-sodium. You have to build your meal wisely to ensure it's nutritious.
Calorie and Nutrient Breakdown of Popular Orders
Understanding popular orders' calorie and nutrient breakdowns helps you make informed choices at mealtime.
Burrito vs. Bowl: The 320-Calorie Difference
The bowl may be better, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake. The flour tortilla has 320 calories with about 600 milligrams of sodium—26% of the recommended daily limit for sodium established by the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans. It’s basically an extra source of refined carbohydrates and salt. Choosing a bowl eliminates those extra 320 calories right off the bat.
A burrito and a bowl with identical fillings are equally nutritious besides the tortilla. However, if you love a burrito, you can still make it work—just be mindful that the wrap is a significant calorie contributor.
Ingredients That Add the Most Calories
Some Chipotle ingredients are packed with calories. Knowing these high-calorie items can help you decide where to splurge and where to cut back.
Flour tortilla (large, burrito wrap): 320 calories and 600 milligrams (mg) of sodium
Chips: 540 calories and 390 mg of sodium per regular bag serving
Guacamole: 230 calories and 370 mg of sodium per scoop
Sour cream: 110 calories and 7 grams of saturated fat per two-ounce serving
Chipotle-honey vinaigrette: 220 calories and 850 mg of sodium per two-ounce serving
Although guacamole is higher in calories and fat, most of the fat is unsaturated. Unsaturated fats support heart health and boost fullness. Consider skipping the flour tortilla in favor of a burrito bowl. Or, ask for the tortilla on the side. Split a bag of chips with a friend, and use some of the chips to scoop the burrito bowl. Ask for sour cream or the vinaigrette on the side to control how much goes on your food.
Comparing Protein Options: What’s the Healthiest Meat or Plant Choice?
You have several protein choices at Chipotle: chicken, steak, carnitas (pork), barbacoa (beef), and sofritas (tofu).
Animal Proteins: Chicken, Steak, Barbacoa, and Carnitas
The meats are relatively lean and high-protein, but there are some differences. A four-ounce serving of protein provides the following nutrition:
Steak: 150 calories, 2.5 grams of saturated fat, 330 mg of sodium, and 21 grams of protein.
Barbacoa: 170 calories, 2.5 grams of saturated fat, 530 mg of sodium, and 24 grams of protein. Barbacoa is beef cooked with spices. It’s a tad higher in calories than steak, presumably because of added seasonings or a fattier cut.
Chicken: 180 calories, 3 grams of saturated fat, 310 mg of sodium, and 32 grams of protein.
Carnitas: 210 calories, 3 grams of saturated fat, 450 mg of sodium, and 23 grams of protein. The pork shoulder used for carnitas tends to have more saturated fat and calories.
Don’t be fooled by the steak's lower calories, saturated fat, and sodium. The American Institute of Cancer Research recommends limiting red meat to less than three portions weekly due to its association with cancer risk. A portion of meat is considered three ounces, less than the amount provided in a Chipotle meal.
Black and pinto beans count as a carbohydrate, protein, and vegetable source. Each four-ounce scoop of beans has approximately eight grams of protein and seven grams of fiber.
Plant-Based Protein: Is Sofritas a Smart Choice?
If you’re plant-based, sofritas would be a good choice. However, the sofritas contain more sodium and less protein than some meat options. A four-ounce portion of sofritas has 150 calories, 1.5 grams of saturated fat, 560 mg of sodium, and eight grams of protein.
If you eat meat, you may want to stick with the chicken or steak, depending on your goals.
Chipotle Mexican Grill is famous for its fresh ingredients and build-your-own meals. It’s one of the most popular fast-casual chains, often viewed as a healthier alternative to traditional fast food. But is Chipotle healthy? It can be. Let’s break down what makes a Chipotle meal healthy and how to make smarter choices when customizing your order.
What Makes a Meal at Chipotle Healthy or Not?
Understanding the Build-Your-Own Format
A Chipotle meal’s healthiness depends on what ingredients you choose and how much you add. With the build-your-own format, you go down the line customizing your order—picking a base, protein, beans, salsas, and other toppings. This format allows you to make a meal that fits your dietary needs. Many dietitians and health professionals appreciate the abundance of healthy options at Chipotle, like brown rice, beans, fajita vegetables, and guacamole.
Why Fresh Doesn’t Always Mean Nutritious
Just because Chipotle uses fresh produce and meats with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives does not guarantee a healthy meal. You can rack up calories and salt quickly with certain combinations and sauces. Additionally, the typical entree at Chipotle is quite large. If you’re not careful, it’s easy to go overboard. On average, a Chipotle meal contains more than 1,000 calories—more than half of the daily intake on a 2,000-calorie-per-day diet.
Chipotle can be healthy but isn’t automatically low-calorie, low-fat, or low-sodium. You have to build your meal wisely to ensure it's nutritious.
Calorie and Nutrient Breakdown of Popular Orders
Understanding popular orders' calorie and nutrient breakdowns helps you make informed choices at mealtime.
Burrito vs. Bowl: The 320-Calorie Difference
The bowl may be better, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake. The flour tortilla has 320 calories with about 600 milligrams of sodium—26% of the recommended daily limit for sodium established by the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans. It’s basically an extra source of refined carbohydrates and salt. Choosing a bowl eliminates those extra 320 calories right off the bat.
A burrito and a bowl with identical fillings are equally nutritious besides the tortilla. However, if you love a burrito, you can still make it work—just be mindful that the wrap is a significant calorie contributor.
Ingredients That Add the Most Calories
Some Chipotle ingredients are packed with calories. Knowing these high-calorie items can help you decide where to splurge and where to cut back.
Flour tortilla (large, burrito wrap): 320 calories and 600 milligrams (mg) of sodium
Chips: 540 calories and 390 mg of sodium per regular bag serving
Guacamole: 230 calories and 370 mg of sodium per scoop
Sour cream: 110 calories and 7 grams of saturated fat per two-ounce serving
Chipotle-honey vinaigrette: 220 calories and 850 mg of sodium per two-ounce serving
Although guacamole is higher in calories and fat, most of the fat is unsaturated. Unsaturated fats support heart health and boost fullness. Consider skipping the flour tortilla in favor of a burrito bowl. Or, ask for the tortilla on the side. Split a bag of chips with a friend, and use some of the chips to scoop the burrito bowl. Ask for sour cream or the vinaigrette on the side to control how much goes on your food.
Comparing Protein Options: What’s the Healthiest Meat or Plant Choice?
You have several protein choices at Chipotle: chicken, steak, carnitas (pork), barbacoa (beef), and sofritas (tofu).
Animal Proteins: Chicken, Steak, Barbacoa, and Carnitas
The meats are relatively lean and high-protein, but there are some differences. A four-ounce serving of protein provides the following nutrition:
Steak: 150 calories, 2.5 grams of saturated fat, 330 mg of sodium, and 21 grams of protein.
Barbacoa: 170 calories, 2.5 grams of saturated fat, 530 mg of sodium, and 24 grams of protein. Barbacoa is beef cooked with spices. It’s a tad higher in calories than steak, presumably because of added seasonings or a fattier cut.
Chicken: 180 calories, 3 grams of saturated fat, 310 mg of sodium, and 32 grams of protein.
Carnitas: 210 calories, 3 grams of saturated fat, 450 mg of sodium, and 23 grams of protein. The pork shoulder used for carnitas tends to have more saturated fat and calories.
Don’t be fooled by the steak's lower calories, saturated fat, and sodium. The American Institute of Cancer Research recommends limiting red meat to less than three portions weekly due to its association with cancer risk. A portion of meat is considered three ounces, less than the amount provided in a Chipotle meal.
Black and pinto beans count as a carbohydrate, protein, and vegetable source. Each four-ounce scoop of beans has approximately eight grams of protein and seven grams of fiber.
Plant-Based Protein: Is Sofritas a Smart Choice?
If you’re plant-based, sofritas would be a good choice. However, the sofritas contain more sodium and less protein than some meat options. A four-ounce portion of sofritas has 150 calories, 1.5 grams of saturated fat, 560 mg of sodium, and eight grams of protein.
If you eat meat, you may want to stick with the chicken or steak, depending on your goals.
Chipotle Mexican Grill is famous for its fresh ingredients and build-your-own meals. It’s one of the most popular fast-casual chains, often viewed as a healthier alternative to traditional fast food. But is Chipotle healthy? It can be. Let’s break down what makes a Chipotle meal healthy and how to make smarter choices when customizing your order.
What Makes a Meal at Chipotle Healthy or Not?
Understanding the Build-Your-Own Format
A Chipotle meal’s healthiness depends on what ingredients you choose and how much you add. With the build-your-own format, you go down the line customizing your order—picking a base, protein, beans, salsas, and other toppings. This format allows you to make a meal that fits your dietary needs. Many dietitians and health professionals appreciate the abundance of healthy options at Chipotle, like brown rice, beans, fajita vegetables, and guacamole.
Why Fresh Doesn’t Always Mean Nutritious
Just because Chipotle uses fresh produce and meats with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives does not guarantee a healthy meal. You can rack up calories and salt quickly with certain combinations and sauces. Additionally, the typical entree at Chipotle is quite large. If you’re not careful, it’s easy to go overboard. On average, a Chipotle meal contains more than 1,000 calories—more than half of the daily intake on a 2,000-calorie-per-day diet.
Chipotle can be healthy but isn’t automatically low-calorie, low-fat, or low-sodium. You have to build your meal wisely to ensure it's nutritious.
Calorie and Nutrient Breakdown of Popular Orders
Understanding popular orders' calorie and nutrient breakdowns helps you make informed choices at mealtime.
Burrito vs. Bowl: The 320-Calorie Difference
The bowl may be better, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake. The flour tortilla has 320 calories with about 600 milligrams of sodium—26% of the recommended daily limit for sodium established by the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans. It’s basically an extra source of refined carbohydrates and salt. Choosing a bowl eliminates those extra 320 calories right off the bat.
A burrito and a bowl with identical fillings are equally nutritious besides the tortilla. However, if you love a burrito, you can still make it work—just be mindful that the wrap is a significant calorie contributor.
Ingredients That Add the Most Calories
Some Chipotle ingredients are packed with calories. Knowing these high-calorie items can help you decide where to splurge and where to cut back.
Flour tortilla (large, burrito wrap): 320 calories and 600 milligrams (mg) of sodium
Chips: 540 calories and 390 mg of sodium per regular bag serving
Guacamole: 230 calories and 370 mg of sodium per scoop
Sour cream: 110 calories and 7 grams of saturated fat per two-ounce serving
Chipotle-honey vinaigrette: 220 calories and 850 mg of sodium per two-ounce serving
Although guacamole is higher in calories and fat, most of the fat is unsaturated. Unsaturated fats support heart health and boost fullness. Consider skipping the flour tortilla in favor of a burrito bowl. Or, ask for the tortilla on the side. Split a bag of chips with a friend, and use some of the chips to scoop the burrito bowl. Ask for sour cream or the vinaigrette on the side to control how much goes on your food.
Comparing Protein Options: What’s the Healthiest Meat or Plant Choice?
You have several protein choices at Chipotle: chicken, steak, carnitas (pork), barbacoa (beef), and sofritas (tofu).
Animal Proteins: Chicken, Steak, Barbacoa, and Carnitas
The meats are relatively lean and high-protein, but there are some differences. A four-ounce serving of protein provides the following nutrition:
Steak: 150 calories, 2.5 grams of saturated fat, 330 mg of sodium, and 21 grams of protein.
Barbacoa: 170 calories, 2.5 grams of saturated fat, 530 mg of sodium, and 24 grams of protein. Barbacoa is beef cooked with spices. It’s a tad higher in calories than steak, presumably because of added seasonings or a fattier cut.
Chicken: 180 calories, 3 grams of saturated fat, 310 mg of sodium, and 32 grams of protein.
Carnitas: 210 calories, 3 grams of saturated fat, 450 mg of sodium, and 23 grams of protein. The pork shoulder used for carnitas tends to have more saturated fat and calories.
Don’t be fooled by the steak's lower calories, saturated fat, and sodium. The American Institute of Cancer Research recommends limiting red meat to less than three portions weekly due to its association with cancer risk. A portion of meat is considered three ounces, less than the amount provided in a Chipotle meal.
Black and pinto beans count as a carbohydrate, protein, and vegetable source. Each four-ounce scoop of beans has approximately eight grams of protein and seven grams of fiber.
Plant-Based Protein: Is Sofritas a Smart Choice?
If you’re plant-based, sofritas would be a good choice. However, the sofritas contain more sodium and less protein than some meat options. A four-ounce portion of sofritas has 150 calories, 1.5 grams of saturated fat, 560 mg of sodium, and eight grams of protein.
If you eat meat, you may want to stick with the chicken or steak, depending on your goals.
Chipotle Mexican Grill is famous for its fresh ingredients and build-your-own meals. It’s one of the most popular fast-casual chains, often viewed as a healthier alternative to traditional fast food. But is Chipotle healthy? It can be. Let’s break down what makes a Chipotle meal healthy and how to make smarter choices when customizing your order.
What Makes a Meal at Chipotle Healthy or Not?
Understanding the Build-Your-Own Format
A Chipotle meal’s healthiness depends on what ingredients you choose and how much you add. With the build-your-own format, you go down the line customizing your order—picking a base, protein, beans, salsas, and other toppings. This format allows you to make a meal that fits your dietary needs. Many dietitians and health professionals appreciate the abundance of healthy options at Chipotle, like brown rice, beans, fajita vegetables, and guacamole.
Why Fresh Doesn’t Always Mean Nutritious
Just because Chipotle uses fresh produce and meats with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives does not guarantee a healthy meal. You can rack up calories and salt quickly with certain combinations and sauces. Additionally, the typical entree at Chipotle is quite large. If you’re not careful, it’s easy to go overboard. On average, a Chipotle meal contains more than 1,000 calories—more than half of the daily intake on a 2,000-calorie-per-day diet.
Chipotle can be healthy but isn’t automatically low-calorie, low-fat, or low-sodium. You have to build your meal wisely to ensure it's nutritious.
Calorie and Nutrient Breakdown of Popular Orders
Understanding popular orders' calorie and nutrient breakdowns helps you make informed choices at mealtime.
Burrito vs. Bowl: The 320-Calorie Difference
The bowl may be better, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake. The flour tortilla has 320 calories with about 600 milligrams of sodium—26% of the recommended daily limit for sodium established by the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans. It’s basically an extra source of refined carbohydrates and salt. Choosing a bowl eliminates those extra 320 calories right off the bat.
A burrito and a bowl with identical fillings are equally nutritious besides the tortilla. However, if you love a burrito, you can still make it work—just be mindful that the wrap is a significant calorie contributor.
Ingredients That Add the Most Calories
Some Chipotle ingredients are packed with calories. Knowing these high-calorie items can help you decide where to splurge and where to cut back.
Flour tortilla (large, burrito wrap): 320 calories and 600 milligrams (mg) of sodium
Chips: 540 calories and 390 mg of sodium per regular bag serving
Guacamole: 230 calories and 370 mg of sodium per scoop
Sour cream: 110 calories and 7 grams of saturated fat per two-ounce serving
Chipotle-honey vinaigrette: 220 calories and 850 mg of sodium per two-ounce serving
Although guacamole is higher in calories and fat, most of the fat is unsaturated. Unsaturated fats support heart health and boost fullness. Consider skipping the flour tortilla in favor of a burrito bowl. Or, ask for the tortilla on the side. Split a bag of chips with a friend, and use some of the chips to scoop the burrito bowl. Ask for sour cream or the vinaigrette on the side to control how much goes on your food.
Comparing Protein Options: What’s the Healthiest Meat or Plant Choice?
You have several protein choices at Chipotle: chicken, steak, carnitas (pork), barbacoa (beef), and sofritas (tofu).
Animal Proteins: Chicken, Steak, Barbacoa, and Carnitas
The meats are relatively lean and high-protein, but there are some differences. A four-ounce serving of protein provides the following nutrition:
Steak: 150 calories, 2.5 grams of saturated fat, 330 mg of sodium, and 21 grams of protein.
Barbacoa: 170 calories, 2.5 grams of saturated fat, 530 mg of sodium, and 24 grams of protein. Barbacoa is beef cooked with spices. It’s a tad higher in calories than steak, presumably because of added seasonings or a fattier cut.
Chicken: 180 calories, 3 grams of saturated fat, 310 mg of sodium, and 32 grams of protein.
Carnitas: 210 calories, 3 grams of saturated fat, 450 mg of sodium, and 23 grams of protein. The pork shoulder used for carnitas tends to have more saturated fat and calories.
Don’t be fooled by the steak's lower calories, saturated fat, and sodium. The American Institute of Cancer Research recommends limiting red meat to less than three portions weekly due to its association with cancer risk. A portion of meat is considered three ounces, less than the amount provided in a Chipotle meal.
Black and pinto beans count as a carbohydrate, protein, and vegetable source. Each four-ounce scoop of beans has approximately eight grams of protein and seven grams of fiber.
Plant-Based Protein: Is Sofritas a Smart Choice?
If you’re plant-based, sofritas would be a good choice. However, the sofritas contain more sodium and less protein than some meat options. A four-ounce portion of sofritas has 150 calories, 1.5 grams of saturated fat, 560 mg of sodium, and eight grams of protein.
If you eat meat, you may want to stick with the chicken or steak, depending on your goals.
Chipotle Mexican Grill is famous for its fresh ingredients and build-your-own meals. It’s one of the most popular fast-casual chains, often viewed as a healthier alternative to traditional fast food. But is Chipotle healthy? It can be. Let’s break down what makes a Chipotle meal healthy and how to make smarter choices when customizing your order.
What Makes a Meal at Chipotle Healthy or Not?
Understanding the Build-Your-Own Format
A Chipotle meal’s healthiness depends on what ingredients you choose and how much you add. With the build-your-own format, you go down the line customizing your order—picking a base, protein, beans, salsas, and other toppings. This format allows you to make a meal that fits your dietary needs. Many dietitians and health professionals appreciate the abundance of healthy options at Chipotle, like brown rice, beans, fajita vegetables, and guacamole.
Why Fresh Doesn’t Always Mean Nutritious
Just because Chipotle uses fresh produce and meats with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives does not guarantee a healthy meal. You can rack up calories and salt quickly with certain combinations and sauces. Additionally, the typical entree at Chipotle is quite large. If you’re not careful, it’s easy to go overboard. On average, a Chipotle meal contains more than 1,000 calories—more than half of the daily intake on a 2,000-calorie-per-day diet.
Chipotle can be healthy but isn’t automatically low-calorie, low-fat, or low-sodium. You have to build your meal wisely to ensure it's nutritious.
Calorie and Nutrient Breakdown of Popular Orders
Understanding popular orders' calorie and nutrient breakdowns helps you make informed choices at mealtime.
Burrito vs. Bowl: The 320-Calorie Difference
The bowl may be better, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake. The flour tortilla has 320 calories with about 600 milligrams of sodium—26% of the recommended daily limit for sodium established by the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans. It’s basically an extra source of refined carbohydrates and salt. Choosing a bowl eliminates those extra 320 calories right off the bat.
A burrito and a bowl with identical fillings are equally nutritious besides the tortilla. However, if you love a burrito, you can still make it work—just be mindful that the wrap is a significant calorie contributor.
Ingredients That Add the Most Calories
Some Chipotle ingredients are packed with calories. Knowing these high-calorie items can help you decide where to splurge and where to cut back.
Flour tortilla (large, burrito wrap): 320 calories and 600 milligrams (mg) of sodium
Chips: 540 calories and 390 mg of sodium per regular bag serving
Guacamole: 230 calories and 370 mg of sodium per scoop
Sour cream: 110 calories and 7 grams of saturated fat per two-ounce serving
Chipotle-honey vinaigrette: 220 calories and 850 mg of sodium per two-ounce serving
Although guacamole is higher in calories and fat, most of the fat is unsaturated. Unsaturated fats support heart health and boost fullness. Consider skipping the flour tortilla in favor of a burrito bowl. Or, ask for the tortilla on the side. Split a bag of chips with a friend, and use some of the chips to scoop the burrito bowl. Ask for sour cream or the vinaigrette on the side to control how much goes on your food.
Comparing Protein Options: What’s the Healthiest Meat or Plant Choice?
You have several protein choices at Chipotle: chicken, steak, carnitas (pork), barbacoa (beef), and sofritas (tofu).
Animal Proteins: Chicken, Steak, Barbacoa, and Carnitas
The meats are relatively lean and high-protein, but there are some differences. A four-ounce serving of protein provides the following nutrition:
Steak: 150 calories, 2.5 grams of saturated fat, 330 mg of sodium, and 21 grams of protein.
Barbacoa: 170 calories, 2.5 grams of saturated fat, 530 mg of sodium, and 24 grams of protein. Barbacoa is beef cooked with spices. It’s a tad higher in calories than steak, presumably because of added seasonings or a fattier cut.
Chicken: 180 calories, 3 grams of saturated fat, 310 mg of sodium, and 32 grams of protein.
Carnitas: 210 calories, 3 grams of saturated fat, 450 mg of sodium, and 23 grams of protein. The pork shoulder used for carnitas tends to have more saturated fat and calories.
Don’t be fooled by the steak's lower calories, saturated fat, and sodium. The American Institute of Cancer Research recommends limiting red meat to less than three portions weekly due to its association with cancer risk. A portion of meat is considered three ounces, less than the amount provided in a Chipotle meal.
Black and pinto beans count as a carbohydrate, protein, and vegetable source. Each four-ounce scoop of beans has approximately eight grams of protein and seven grams of fiber.
Plant-Based Protein: Is Sofritas a Smart Choice?
If you’re plant-based, sofritas would be a good choice. However, the sofritas contain more sodium and less protein than some meat options. A four-ounce portion of sofritas has 150 calories, 1.5 grams of saturated fat, 560 mg of sodium, and eight grams of protein.
If you eat meat, you may want to stick with the chicken or steak, depending on your goals.
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Meet With an Online Registered Dietitian
95% of our patients meet with their dietitian for free.
Meet With an Online Registered Dietitian
95% of our patients meet with their dietitian for free.
Meet With an Online Registered Dietitian
95% of our patients meet with their dietitian for free.
How to Build a Balanced, Flavorful Bowl
Chipotle’s customization makes it easy to tailor meals to your health goals.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Healthy Bowl
Here’s a step-by-step guide to building a healthier Chipotle meal without sacrificing flavor.
Choose a bowl or salad base: Skip the burrito tortilla and choose a bowl or salad with greens.
Pick your protein: Choose your preferred protein—barbacoa, chicken, carnitas, steak, or sofritas. Calorie differences are insignificant, but the barbacoa, carnitas, and sofritas are higher in salt. Stick with one serving of protein, which provides enough protein for a meal.
Add beans: Black or pinto beans boost the bowl’s nutrition content. Beans are a great source of fiber, protein, and micronutrients like iron and magnesium. Beans contribute to satiety and help turn your bowl into a more balanced meal. Black and pinto beans are nutritionally similar, so choose the one you prefer.
Choose rice: Include rice in your bowl if you want. Brown rice contains slightly more fiber than white rice but with less sodium.
Pile on the veggies: Ask for fajita veggies, fresh tomato salsa, and lettuce for more fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Still, be mindful of the fresh tomato salsa, as one four-ounce serving has 550 mg of sodium. The roasted chili-corn salsa is a great addition to your bowl but remember, corn is a starchy vegetable, so it counts toward your carbohydrate intake.
Be smart with high-calorie toppings: Be mindful of the cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and queso. Including these toppings in your bowl can easily add 400 + calories to your meal. Consider requesting a half-portion of sour cream or cheese, which is often enough to get the flavor without overdoing it. Salsas provide flavor, but they’re also packed with sodium. Choose the green chili salsa instead of the red chili salsa, which has nearly double the amount of sodium.
Consider portions and extras: Chipotle servings are generous. Save half of your meal for later, particularly if you feel full. Choose water, unsweetened tea, or diet soda; a large regular soda can add 250+ calories.
Tips to Cut Calories Without Cutting Taste
Customize your Chipotle meal with these tips to lighten up your order.
Use the nutrition calculator: Chipotle provides an online nutrition calculator where you can build your meal virtually to see precisely how many calories and grams of fat or sodium are in it.
Swap sour cream for salsa: Salsas are low-calorie and provide additional flavor and sauciness to your meal. However, be mindful of the sodium.
Ask for “light” or half portions: Get a half-scoop of different toppings to control calories without compromising flavor.
Share with friends: Split a burrito or bowl with a friend to help with portion control. Or, consider saving half of your meal for the next day.
Include the low-cal add-ons: Use cilantro, lettuce, onions, lime, and Tabasco sauce to boost flavor without adding more calories.
How Chipotle Stacks Up Against Other Fast Food Chains
Ingredient Quality and Sourcing
Chipotle has eliminated artificial additives from their food, so the menu has no fake colors, flavors, or preservatives. Chipotle’s ingredients have been GMO-free since 2015. They also source meats responsibly raised without antibiotics and use a lot of organic and local produce.
Nutrition Comparison by the Numbers
Chipotle allows you to customize your order to add more vegetables and fiber. However, Chipotle's portions can be large and contain more calories than other fast food restaurants. For example, a classic McDonald’s Big Mac has 563 calories compared to a Chipotle burrito, which often has 800 to 1200+ calories. Still, the nutritional composition of these calories likely varies between other fast food restaurants and Chipotle.
Final Thoughts: Is Chipotle a Healthy Choice?
Chipotle can be a healthy choice but isn’t automatically healthy by default. Many people consider Chipotle a healthier fast food, not because it’s low-calorie, but because of the quality of ingredients and the ability to customize a more nutritious meal. The restaurant provides fresh, high-quality ingredients and plenty of nutrient-rich options. But it comes down to what you order.
Everyone’s nutrition goals are different. Want help figuring out how your favorite takeout fits into a healthier lifestyle? Our dietitians are here to help.
Click here to get started today →
FAQs
Question 1: What is the healthiest thing to order at Chipotle?
Order a bowl or salad with brown rice, chicken, romaine lettuce, fajita veggies, beans, and salsa for a dish with up to 560 calories, 44 grams of protein, and 10 grams of fiber.
Question 2: Is Chipotle too high in sodium to eat regularly?
Chipotle provides a significant amount of sodium in the diet. Even the healthier options can be high in sodium. For example, a burrito bowl with brown rice, black or pinto beans, fajita vegetables, chicken, tomatillo green chili salsa, and romaine has 1,120 mg of sodium or 49% of the recommended limit of 2,300 mg daily. Ask for “light” rice and beans and skip the green chili salsa to reduce sodium to 660 mg. While it is not recommended to eat Chipotle every day, it can be part of your regular eating routine if you account for the sodium with the rest of your food intake.
Question 3: Can I eat Chipotle while trying to lose weight?
Yes, you can eat Chipotle while trying to lose weight. Be mindful of portion sizes, and use the nutrition calculator tool on the Chipotle website to create a meal that aligns with your health goals.
How to Build a Balanced, Flavorful Bowl
Chipotle’s customization makes it easy to tailor meals to your health goals.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Healthy Bowl
Here’s a step-by-step guide to building a healthier Chipotle meal without sacrificing flavor.
Choose a bowl or salad base: Skip the burrito tortilla and choose a bowl or salad with greens.
Pick your protein: Choose your preferred protein—barbacoa, chicken, carnitas, steak, or sofritas. Calorie differences are insignificant, but the barbacoa, carnitas, and sofritas are higher in salt. Stick with one serving of protein, which provides enough protein for a meal.
Add beans: Black or pinto beans boost the bowl’s nutrition content. Beans are a great source of fiber, protein, and micronutrients like iron and magnesium. Beans contribute to satiety and help turn your bowl into a more balanced meal. Black and pinto beans are nutritionally similar, so choose the one you prefer.
Choose rice: Include rice in your bowl if you want. Brown rice contains slightly more fiber than white rice but with less sodium.
Pile on the veggies: Ask for fajita veggies, fresh tomato salsa, and lettuce for more fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Still, be mindful of the fresh tomato salsa, as one four-ounce serving has 550 mg of sodium. The roasted chili-corn salsa is a great addition to your bowl but remember, corn is a starchy vegetable, so it counts toward your carbohydrate intake.
Be smart with high-calorie toppings: Be mindful of the cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and queso. Including these toppings in your bowl can easily add 400 + calories to your meal. Consider requesting a half-portion of sour cream or cheese, which is often enough to get the flavor without overdoing it. Salsas provide flavor, but they’re also packed with sodium. Choose the green chili salsa instead of the red chili salsa, which has nearly double the amount of sodium.
Consider portions and extras: Chipotle servings are generous. Save half of your meal for later, particularly if you feel full. Choose water, unsweetened tea, or diet soda; a large regular soda can add 250+ calories.
Tips to Cut Calories Without Cutting Taste
Customize your Chipotle meal with these tips to lighten up your order.
Use the nutrition calculator: Chipotle provides an online nutrition calculator where you can build your meal virtually to see precisely how many calories and grams of fat or sodium are in it.
Swap sour cream for salsa: Salsas are low-calorie and provide additional flavor and sauciness to your meal. However, be mindful of the sodium.
Ask for “light” or half portions: Get a half-scoop of different toppings to control calories without compromising flavor.
Share with friends: Split a burrito or bowl with a friend to help with portion control. Or, consider saving half of your meal for the next day.
Include the low-cal add-ons: Use cilantro, lettuce, onions, lime, and Tabasco sauce to boost flavor without adding more calories.
How Chipotle Stacks Up Against Other Fast Food Chains
Ingredient Quality and Sourcing
Chipotle has eliminated artificial additives from their food, so the menu has no fake colors, flavors, or preservatives. Chipotle’s ingredients have been GMO-free since 2015. They also source meats responsibly raised without antibiotics and use a lot of organic and local produce.
Nutrition Comparison by the Numbers
Chipotle allows you to customize your order to add more vegetables and fiber. However, Chipotle's portions can be large and contain more calories than other fast food restaurants. For example, a classic McDonald’s Big Mac has 563 calories compared to a Chipotle burrito, which often has 800 to 1200+ calories. Still, the nutritional composition of these calories likely varies between other fast food restaurants and Chipotle.
Final Thoughts: Is Chipotle a Healthy Choice?
Chipotle can be a healthy choice but isn’t automatically healthy by default. Many people consider Chipotle a healthier fast food, not because it’s low-calorie, but because of the quality of ingredients and the ability to customize a more nutritious meal. The restaurant provides fresh, high-quality ingredients and plenty of nutrient-rich options. But it comes down to what you order.
Everyone’s nutrition goals are different. Want help figuring out how your favorite takeout fits into a healthier lifestyle? Our dietitians are here to help.
Click here to get started today →
FAQs
Question 1: What is the healthiest thing to order at Chipotle?
Order a bowl or salad with brown rice, chicken, romaine lettuce, fajita veggies, beans, and salsa for a dish with up to 560 calories, 44 grams of protein, and 10 grams of fiber.
Question 2: Is Chipotle too high in sodium to eat regularly?
Chipotle provides a significant amount of sodium in the diet. Even the healthier options can be high in sodium. For example, a burrito bowl with brown rice, black or pinto beans, fajita vegetables, chicken, tomatillo green chili salsa, and romaine has 1,120 mg of sodium or 49% of the recommended limit of 2,300 mg daily. Ask for “light” rice and beans and skip the green chili salsa to reduce sodium to 660 mg. While it is not recommended to eat Chipotle every day, it can be part of your regular eating routine if you account for the sodium with the rest of your food intake.
Question 3: Can I eat Chipotle while trying to lose weight?
Yes, you can eat Chipotle while trying to lose weight. Be mindful of portion sizes, and use the nutrition calculator tool on the Chipotle website to create a meal that aligns with your health goals.
How to Build a Balanced, Flavorful Bowl
Chipotle’s customization makes it easy to tailor meals to your health goals.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Healthy Bowl
Here’s a step-by-step guide to building a healthier Chipotle meal without sacrificing flavor.
Choose a bowl or salad base: Skip the burrito tortilla and choose a bowl or salad with greens.
Pick your protein: Choose your preferred protein—barbacoa, chicken, carnitas, steak, or sofritas. Calorie differences are insignificant, but the barbacoa, carnitas, and sofritas are higher in salt. Stick with one serving of protein, which provides enough protein for a meal.
Add beans: Black or pinto beans boost the bowl’s nutrition content. Beans are a great source of fiber, protein, and micronutrients like iron and magnesium. Beans contribute to satiety and help turn your bowl into a more balanced meal. Black and pinto beans are nutritionally similar, so choose the one you prefer.
Choose rice: Include rice in your bowl if you want. Brown rice contains slightly more fiber than white rice but with less sodium.
Pile on the veggies: Ask for fajita veggies, fresh tomato salsa, and lettuce for more fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Still, be mindful of the fresh tomato salsa, as one four-ounce serving has 550 mg of sodium. The roasted chili-corn salsa is a great addition to your bowl but remember, corn is a starchy vegetable, so it counts toward your carbohydrate intake.
Be smart with high-calorie toppings: Be mindful of the cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and queso. Including these toppings in your bowl can easily add 400 + calories to your meal. Consider requesting a half-portion of sour cream or cheese, which is often enough to get the flavor without overdoing it. Salsas provide flavor, but they’re also packed with sodium. Choose the green chili salsa instead of the red chili salsa, which has nearly double the amount of sodium.
Consider portions and extras: Chipotle servings are generous. Save half of your meal for later, particularly if you feel full. Choose water, unsweetened tea, or diet soda; a large regular soda can add 250+ calories.
Tips to Cut Calories Without Cutting Taste
Customize your Chipotle meal with these tips to lighten up your order.
Use the nutrition calculator: Chipotle provides an online nutrition calculator where you can build your meal virtually to see precisely how many calories and grams of fat or sodium are in it.
Swap sour cream for salsa: Salsas are low-calorie and provide additional flavor and sauciness to your meal. However, be mindful of the sodium.
Ask for “light” or half portions: Get a half-scoop of different toppings to control calories without compromising flavor.
Share with friends: Split a burrito or bowl with a friend to help with portion control. Or, consider saving half of your meal for the next day.
Include the low-cal add-ons: Use cilantro, lettuce, onions, lime, and Tabasco sauce to boost flavor without adding more calories.
How Chipotle Stacks Up Against Other Fast Food Chains
Ingredient Quality and Sourcing
Chipotle has eliminated artificial additives from their food, so the menu has no fake colors, flavors, or preservatives. Chipotle’s ingredients have been GMO-free since 2015. They also source meats responsibly raised without antibiotics and use a lot of organic and local produce.
Nutrition Comparison by the Numbers
Chipotle allows you to customize your order to add more vegetables and fiber. However, Chipotle's portions can be large and contain more calories than other fast food restaurants. For example, a classic McDonald’s Big Mac has 563 calories compared to a Chipotle burrito, which often has 800 to 1200+ calories. Still, the nutritional composition of these calories likely varies between other fast food restaurants and Chipotle.
Final Thoughts: Is Chipotle a Healthy Choice?
Chipotle can be a healthy choice but isn’t automatically healthy by default. Many people consider Chipotle a healthier fast food, not because it’s low-calorie, but because of the quality of ingredients and the ability to customize a more nutritious meal. The restaurant provides fresh, high-quality ingredients and plenty of nutrient-rich options. But it comes down to what you order.
Everyone’s nutrition goals are different. Want help figuring out how your favorite takeout fits into a healthier lifestyle? Our dietitians are here to help.
Click here to get started today →
FAQs
Question 1: What is the healthiest thing to order at Chipotle?
Order a bowl or salad with brown rice, chicken, romaine lettuce, fajita veggies, beans, and salsa for a dish with up to 560 calories, 44 grams of protein, and 10 grams of fiber.
Question 2: Is Chipotle too high in sodium to eat regularly?
Chipotle provides a significant amount of sodium in the diet. Even the healthier options can be high in sodium. For example, a burrito bowl with brown rice, black or pinto beans, fajita vegetables, chicken, tomatillo green chili salsa, and romaine has 1,120 mg of sodium or 49% of the recommended limit of 2,300 mg daily. Ask for “light” rice and beans and skip the green chili salsa to reduce sodium to 660 mg. While it is not recommended to eat Chipotle every day, it can be part of your regular eating routine if you account for the sodium with the rest of your food intake.
Question 3: Can I eat Chipotle while trying to lose weight?
Yes, you can eat Chipotle while trying to lose weight. Be mindful of portion sizes, and use the nutrition calculator tool on the Chipotle website to create a meal that aligns with your health goals.
How to Build a Balanced, Flavorful Bowl
Chipotle’s customization makes it easy to tailor meals to your health goals.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Healthy Bowl
Here’s a step-by-step guide to building a healthier Chipotle meal without sacrificing flavor.
Choose a bowl or salad base: Skip the burrito tortilla and choose a bowl or salad with greens.
Pick your protein: Choose your preferred protein—barbacoa, chicken, carnitas, steak, or sofritas. Calorie differences are insignificant, but the barbacoa, carnitas, and sofritas are higher in salt. Stick with one serving of protein, which provides enough protein for a meal.
Add beans: Black or pinto beans boost the bowl’s nutrition content. Beans are a great source of fiber, protein, and micronutrients like iron and magnesium. Beans contribute to satiety and help turn your bowl into a more balanced meal. Black and pinto beans are nutritionally similar, so choose the one you prefer.
Choose rice: Include rice in your bowl if you want. Brown rice contains slightly more fiber than white rice but with less sodium.
Pile on the veggies: Ask for fajita veggies, fresh tomato salsa, and lettuce for more fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Still, be mindful of the fresh tomato salsa, as one four-ounce serving has 550 mg of sodium. The roasted chili-corn salsa is a great addition to your bowl but remember, corn is a starchy vegetable, so it counts toward your carbohydrate intake.
Be smart with high-calorie toppings: Be mindful of the cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and queso. Including these toppings in your bowl can easily add 400 + calories to your meal. Consider requesting a half-portion of sour cream or cheese, which is often enough to get the flavor without overdoing it. Salsas provide flavor, but they’re also packed with sodium. Choose the green chili salsa instead of the red chili salsa, which has nearly double the amount of sodium.
Consider portions and extras: Chipotle servings are generous. Save half of your meal for later, particularly if you feel full. Choose water, unsweetened tea, or diet soda; a large regular soda can add 250+ calories.
Tips to Cut Calories Without Cutting Taste
Customize your Chipotle meal with these tips to lighten up your order.
Use the nutrition calculator: Chipotle provides an online nutrition calculator where you can build your meal virtually to see precisely how many calories and grams of fat or sodium are in it.
Swap sour cream for salsa: Salsas are low-calorie and provide additional flavor and sauciness to your meal. However, be mindful of the sodium.
Ask for “light” or half portions: Get a half-scoop of different toppings to control calories without compromising flavor.
Share with friends: Split a burrito or bowl with a friend to help with portion control. Or, consider saving half of your meal for the next day.
Include the low-cal add-ons: Use cilantro, lettuce, onions, lime, and Tabasco sauce to boost flavor without adding more calories.
How Chipotle Stacks Up Against Other Fast Food Chains
Ingredient Quality and Sourcing
Chipotle has eliminated artificial additives from their food, so the menu has no fake colors, flavors, or preservatives. Chipotle’s ingredients have been GMO-free since 2015. They also source meats responsibly raised without antibiotics and use a lot of organic and local produce.
Nutrition Comparison by the Numbers
Chipotle allows you to customize your order to add more vegetables and fiber. However, Chipotle's portions can be large and contain more calories than other fast food restaurants. For example, a classic McDonald’s Big Mac has 563 calories compared to a Chipotle burrito, which often has 800 to 1200+ calories. Still, the nutritional composition of these calories likely varies between other fast food restaurants and Chipotle.
Final Thoughts: Is Chipotle a Healthy Choice?
Chipotle can be a healthy choice but isn’t automatically healthy by default. Many people consider Chipotle a healthier fast food, not because it’s low-calorie, but because of the quality of ingredients and the ability to customize a more nutritious meal. The restaurant provides fresh, high-quality ingredients and plenty of nutrient-rich options. But it comes down to what you order.
Everyone’s nutrition goals are different. Want help figuring out how your favorite takeout fits into a healthier lifestyle? Our dietitians are here to help.
Click here to get started today →
FAQs
Question 1: What is the healthiest thing to order at Chipotle?
Order a bowl or salad with brown rice, chicken, romaine lettuce, fajita veggies, beans, and salsa for a dish with up to 560 calories, 44 grams of protein, and 10 grams of fiber.
Question 2: Is Chipotle too high in sodium to eat regularly?
Chipotle provides a significant amount of sodium in the diet. Even the healthier options can be high in sodium. For example, a burrito bowl with brown rice, black or pinto beans, fajita vegetables, chicken, tomatillo green chili salsa, and romaine has 1,120 mg of sodium or 49% of the recommended limit of 2,300 mg daily. Ask for “light” rice and beans and skip the green chili salsa to reduce sodium to 660 mg. While it is not recommended to eat Chipotle every day, it can be part of your regular eating routine if you account for the sodium with the rest of your food intake.
Question 3: Can I eat Chipotle while trying to lose weight?
Yes, you can eat Chipotle while trying to lose weight. Be mindful of portion sizes, and use the nutrition calculator tool on the Chipotle website to create a meal that aligns with your health goals.
How to Build a Balanced, Flavorful Bowl
Chipotle’s customization makes it easy to tailor meals to your health goals.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Healthy Bowl
Here’s a step-by-step guide to building a healthier Chipotle meal without sacrificing flavor.
Choose a bowl or salad base: Skip the burrito tortilla and choose a bowl or salad with greens.
Pick your protein: Choose your preferred protein—barbacoa, chicken, carnitas, steak, or sofritas. Calorie differences are insignificant, but the barbacoa, carnitas, and sofritas are higher in salt. Stick with one serving of protein, which provides enough protein for a meal.
Add beans: Black or pinto beans boost the bowl’s nutrition content. Beans are a great source of fiber, protein, and micronutrients like iron and magnesium. Beans contribute to satiety and help turn your bowl into a more balanced meal. Black and pinto beans are nutritionally similar, so choose the one you prefer.
Choose rice: Include rice in your bowl if you want. Brown rice contains slightly more fiber than white rice but with less sodium.
Pile on the veggies: Ask for fajita veggies, fresh tomato salsa, and lettuce for more fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Still, be mindful of the fresh tomato salsa, as one four-ounce serving has 550 mg of sodium. The roasted chili-corn salsa is a great addition to your bowl but remember, corn is a starchy vegetable, so it counts toward your carbohydrate intake.
Be smart with high-calorie toppings: Be mindful of the cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and queso. Including these toppings in your bowl can easily add 400 + calories to your meal. Consider requesting a half-portion of sour cream or cheese, which is often enough to get the flavor without overdoing it. Salsas provide flavor, but they’re also packed with sodium. Choose the green chili salsa instead of the red chili salsa, which has nearly double the amount of sodium.
Consider portions and extras: Chipotle servings are generous. Save half of your meal for later, particularly if you feel full. Choose water, unsweetened tea, or diet soda; a large regular soda can add 250+ calories.
Tips to Cut Calories Without Cutting Taste
Customize your Chipotle meal with these tips to lighten up your order.
Use the nutrition calculator: Chipotle provides an online nutrition calculator where you can build your meal virtually to see precisely how many calories and grams of fat or sodium are in it.
Swap sour cream for salsa: Salsas are low-calorie and provide additional flavor and sauciness to your meal. However, be mindful of the sodium.
Ask for “light” or half portions: Get a half-scoop of different toppings to control calories without compromising flavor.
Share with friends: Split a burrito or bowl with a friend to help with portion control. Or, consider saving half of your meal for the next day.
Include the low-cal add-ons: Use cilantro, lettuce, onions, lime, and Tabasco sauce to boost flavor without adding more calories.
How Chipotle Stacks Up Against Other Fast Food Chains
Ingredient Quality and Sourcing
Chipotle has eliminated artificial additives from their food, so the menu has no fake colors, flavors, or preservatives. Chipotle’s ingredients have been GMO-free since 2015. They also source meats responsibly raised without antibiotics and use a lot of organic and local produce.
Nutrition Comparison by the Numbers
Chipotle allows you to customize your order to add more vegetables and fiber. However, Chipotle's portions can be large and contain more calories than other fast food restaurants. For example, a classic McDonald’s Big Mac has 563 calories compared to a Chipotle burrito, which often has 800 to 1200+ calories. Still, the nutritional composition of these calories likely varies between other fast food restaurants and Chipotle.
Final Thoughts: Is Chipotle a Healthy Choice?
Chipotle can be a healthy choice but isn’t automatically healthy by default. Many people consider Chipotle a healthier fast food, not because it’s low-calorie, but because of the quality of ingredients and the ability to customize a more nutritious meal. The restaurant provides fresh, high-quality ingredients and plenty of nutrient-rich options. But it comes down to what you order.
Everyone’s nutrition goals are different. Want help figuring out how your favorite takeout fits into a healthier lifestyle? Our dietitians are here to help.
Click here to get started today →
FAQs
Question 1: What is the healthiest thing to order at Chipotle?
Order a bowl or salad with brown rice, chicken, romaine lettuce, fajita veggies, beans, and salsa for a dish with up to 560 calories, 44 grams of protein, and 10 grams of fiber.
Question 2: Is Chipotle too high in sodium to eat regularly?
Chipotle provides a significant amount of sodium in the diet. Even the healthier options can be high in sodium. For example, a burrito bowl with brown rice, black or pinto beans, fajita vegetables, chicken, tomatillo green chili salsa, and romaine has 1,120 mg of sodium or 49% of the recommended limit of 2,300 mg daily. Ask for “light” rice and beans and skip the green chili salsa to reduce sodium to 660 mg. While it is not recommended to eat Chipotle every day, it can be part of your regular eating routine if you account for the sodium with the rest of your food intake.
Question 3: Can I eat Chipotle while trying to lose weight?
Yes, you can eat Chipotle while trying to lose weight. Be mindful of portion sizes, and use the nutrition calculator tool on the Chipotle website to create a meal that aligns with your health goals.
