The 8 Healthiest Fast-Food Soups, According to Dietitians

Fast-food soups have become a popular choice for people seeking a quick, convenient, and warming meal option. While fast food is often associated with high-calorie, unhealthy options, there are some surprisingly healthy soup choices available across popular chains. According to dietitians, selecting the right soup can provide nutrients, keep calorie counts low, and satisfy hunger. Here’s a guide to the 8 healthiest fast-food soups, according to dietitians, so you can make a healthier choice on the go.

1. Panera Bread's Ten Vegetable Soup

One of the top picks among the 8 healthiest fast-food soups, according to dietitians, is Panera Bread’s Ten Vegetable Soup. This soup is a vegan option packed with a wide variety of vegetables like carrots, tomatoes, corn, and spinach. At only 70 calories per cup, it provides essential nutrients without the excess calories. Rich in fibre and vitamins, this soup is low in fat and sodium, making it a nutritious choice. For those looking to keep things light yet nourishing, this soup’s combination of flavours and nutrients is a winning option.

Nutritional Highlights:

• Calories: 70 per cup
• Benefits: High fibre, rich in vitamins A and C, and suitable for vegans.

2. Chick-fil-A’s Chicken Noodle Soup

Known for its chicken-centric menu, Chick-fil-A offers a comforting Chicken Noodle Soup that makes the cut among the 8 healthiest fast-food soups, according to dietitians. Made with a clear broth, lean chicken breast, and wholesome noodles, this soup is a balanced choice, especially on a cold day. With only 120 calories per serving, it provides protein while being low in fat, helping to keep you full without adding unwanted calories.

Nutritional Highlights:

• Calories: 120 per cup
• Benefits: Good source of protein, low in calories, suitable for a filling but light meal.

3. Subway’s Black Bean Soup

Subway's Black Bean Soup is a high-fibre, protein-rich option that has earned its spot among the 8 healthiest fast-food soups, according to dietitians. Black beans are packed with protein, iron, and magnesium, making this soup not only delicious but also nutritious. With just over 200 calories in a serving, it’s a great plant-based option for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty, protein-rich soup.

Nutritional Highlights:

• Calories: Approximately 210 per serving
• Benefits: High in fibre and protein, good source of iron and magnesium, suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

4. Au Bon Pain's Garden Vegetable Soup

When it comes to simple, nutrient-packed choices, Au Bon Pain's Garden Vegetable Soup is a go-to on the list of the 8 healthiest fast-food soups, according to dietitians. Filled with a range of vegetables such as carrots, celery, and tomatoes, this soup is an antioxidant-rich choice. With a light, tasty broth, it’s low in calories, containing around 90 calories per serving. This soup is perfect for those looking for a veggie-loaded meal without the extra fat.

Nutritional Highlights:

• Calories: 90 per cup
• Benefits: Low in calories, rich in antioxidants, great source of vitamins A and C.

5. McDonald's Southwest Chicken Soup

Although known for its burgers and fries, McDonald’s offers a surprisingly healthy option with its Southwest Chicken Soup. This flavourful choice combines lean chicken, beans, corn, and spices, creating a filling and mildly spicy soup that’s packed with protein and fibre. Ranking high among the 8 healthiest fast-food soups, according to dietitians, this option is satisfying and lower in calories than many other fast-food items.

Nutritional Highlights:

• Calories: Approximately 180 per serving
• Benefits: High protein content, moderate calorie count, contains fibre from beans and corn.

6. Taco Bell's Chicken Tortilla Soup

Taco Bell might not be the first place you think of for healthy options, but its Chicken Tortilla Soup has made the list of the 8 healthiest fast-food soups, according to dietitians. This Mexican-inspired soup includes tender chicken, beans, and flavourful spices, offering a good dose of protein and fibre. At just 160 calories per serving, it’s a warming option for a cold day, with the added benefit of a slight spicy kick.

Nutritional Highlights:

• Calories: 160 per cup
• Benefits: High in protein, moderate calorie count, low in fat, with a hint of spice.

7. Starbucks’ Tomato & Basil Soup

Known for its coffee, Starbucks also offers a healthy soup option that has caught the attention of dietitians. The Tomato & Basil Soup is vegan and packed with lycopene-rich tomatoes, which provide antioxidant benefits. With around 150 calories per serving, this soup is low in fat and offers a delicious, comforting taste of classic Italian flavours. Among the 8 healthiest fast-food soups, according to dietitians, Starbucks’ option stands out for its simplicity and nutrient density.

Nutritional Highlights:

• Calories: 150 per serving
• Benefits: Antioxidant-rich, low in fat, vegan-friendly.

8. Wendy's Rich & Meaty Chilli

A classic favourite, Wendy’s Rich & Meaty Chilli is not only filling but also a healthy choice, making it a great fit among the 8 healthiest fast-food soups, according to dietitians. Made with kidney beans, ground beef, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, this chilli is high in protein and fibre, keeping you full and satisfied. Although a bit higher in calories than other soups on the list, at 250 calories per serving, it’s still a balanced option that offers nutrients and flavour.

Nutritional Highlights:

• Calories: 250 per serving
• Benefits: High in protein and fibre, filling and nutrient-dense, great for a hearty lunch.

Tips for Choosing Healthy Fast-Food Soups

When choosing from the 8 healthiest fast-food soups, according to dietitians, keep these tips in mind to make the best choice:

• Check Calorie Counts: Soups can vary widely in calories, so it’s helpful to choose ones that fit within your dietary needs.
• Look for High-Fibre Options: Fibre helps keep you full and supports digestive health.
• Opt for Low-Sodium Choices: Fast-food soups can be high in sodium, so aim for soups with a lower sodium count or check the brand’s nutrition facts.
• Choose Protein-Packed Soups: Protein helps sustain energy and makes soups more satisfying.

Conclusion

Fast food doesn’t always have to be unhealthy. By choosing wisely, you can enjoy a satisfying, nutritious soup on the go. The 8 healthiest fast-food soups, according to dietitians, listed here prove that there are wholesome choices available even when you’re pressed for time. Next time you’re in need of a quick, warming meal, consider these options to make your fast-food experience both delicious and nutrit