Need A Protein Boost? Try This Fast Food Chain's Chicken Nuggets

Nowadays, it seems like getting more protein in your diet has become a global obsession. Sure, you can use everyday home hacks to boost your protein like upgrading boxed stuffing mix with chorizo or adding beans to your pasta for more tasty protein, but sometimes life comes at you fast. If you need (or want!) a break from cooking yourself, you may be wondering what drive-thru will provide you with a protein-tastic bang for your buck.

In a world of weighty burgers, Taco Bell's chicken nuggets aren't the absolute densest source of fast food protein, but, at 72 grams in a 10-piece serving, they're pretty impressive. Comparatively, McDonald's chicken nuggets have only 23 grams in a 10-piece. The "right" amount of protein for a healthy adult ranges widely depending on factors like age and activity level, but 72 grams of protein is a whopping amount for one meal, no matter who you ask. 

Those watching other macros besides just protein may be interested, however, to find that Taco Bell's chicken nuggets also contain 1,840 milligrams of sodium and 33 grams of fat. If you choose to watch those values for health reasons, these nuggies may not be a viable source of everyday protein-loading.

Obviously, Taco Bell's chicken nuggets are little breaded protein bombs, but man can't live on fried chicken alone. The Bell actually offers several choices for higher-protein eating that suit every taste and budget. Several of these choices are actually pretty nutritionally well-rounded, which is surprising for drive-thru fare.

The 3 Cheese Chicken Flatbread gets a lot of attention from protein loaders because it packs 20 grams of protein for a low cost. The flatbread is on Taco Bell's value menu, and the price comes in around $2.29, although that is subject to vary by area and franchise. If you visit T-Bell in the morning, the Breakfast California Crunchwrap with Bacon delivers 21 grams of protein. 

The Grilled Cheese Burrito and Cantina Chicken Quesadilla are both protein heavyweights, with nearly 30 grams apiece. In terms of overall nutrition, however, it's hard to beat Taco Bell's Cantina Chicken Bowl. It's loaded with colorful veggies and multiple sources of protein, like cheese, sour cream, beans, and, of course, chicken, coming in at 25 grams for a whole bowl. We've seen gym-goers remove the beans and rice and sub extra chicken and cheese for an even larger protein boost without as many calories. When it comes to food choices when you are watching protein, Taco Bell's chicken nugs reign supreme. If you want more diverse options or need to account for other macros, however, the Bell has some great alternatives.