Reviewed February 24, 2011 by UTK Dietetic Intern
4 out of 5 Forks
Whether you want to go out with the family or relax with friends, Chili’s is an inviting, laid-back restaurant where you can enjoy some of your favorite American and Southwestern indulgences. Yes, Chili’s does make it easy to indulge. Many of their entrees are fat and calorie-laden and often consumed after starting with Chili’s famous, bottomless chips and salsa.
However, Chili’s does offer a Guiltless Grill menu with lower calorie and lower fat dishes. These options are much needed because many of their popular entrees such as the Classic Bacon Burger, Chicken Crispers, and Chili’s Original Baby Back Ribs are 1300-1600 calories and easily meet or exceed the recommended total fat grams for an entire day (recommended total fat per day: 56-78g; total fat for entrees, respectively: 85g, 66g, 84g). Chili’s Guiltless Grill Salmon (520 calories, 16g fat) or Margarita Grilled Chicken (600 calories, 13g fat) are two tasty options that are better choices for your heart and waistline. Try these dishes with steamed veggies, rice (no butter), or black beans. Chili’s will allow you to order rice without butter and substitute healthier sides for others for no charge.
During my recent visit to Chili’s, I was especially in the mood for a Southwestern dish, so I ordered the Chicken Fajitas. The delectable smell from the patron’s fajitas at the next table was enough to make my decision. This Southwestern favorite is not only delicious, but it is a good source of lean protein and veggies. Like the majority of Chili’s entrees, you receive a rather large portion, so consider taking the third fajita home or sharing it with a friend. Also, be aware of the high fat and high calorie condiments that are served with the fajitas. Nutirtion information is available on their website. Additionally, Chili’s vegetarian menu options and suggested menu options for specific food allergies such as gluten, egg, peanut, etc. are available online. So the next time you find yourself wanting to unwind at Chili’s, remember there are some tasty dishes that won’t cost you an arm and a leg OR your heart and waistline!
However, Chili’s does offer a Guiltless Grill menu with lower calorie and lower fat dishes. These options are much needed because many of their popular entrees such as the Classic Bacon Burger, Chicken Crispers, and Chili’s Original Baby Back Ribs are 1300-1600 calories and easily meet or exceed the recommended total fat grams for an entire day (recommended total fat per day: 56-78g; total fat for entrees, respectively: 85g, 66g, 84g). Chili’s Guiltless Grill Salmon (520 calories, 16g fat) or Margarita Grilled Chicken (600 calories, 13g fat) are two tasty options that are better choices for your heart and waistline. Try these dishes with steamed veggies, rice (no butter), or black beans. Chili’s will allow you to order rice without butter and substitute healthier sides for others for no charge.
During my recent visit to Chili’s, I was especially in the mood for a Southwestern dish, so I ordered the Chicken Fajitas. The delectable smell from the patron’s fajitas at the next table was enough to make my decision. This Southwestern favorite is not only delicious, but it is a good source of lean protein and veggies. Like the majority of Chili’s entrees, you receive a rather large portion, so consider taking the third fajita home or sharing it with a friend. Also, be aware of the high fat and high calorie condiments that are served with the fajitas. Nutirtion information is available on their website. Additionally, Chili’s vegetarian menu options and suggested menu options for specific food allergies such as gluten, egg, peanut, etc. are available online. So the next time you find yourself wanting to unwind at Chili’s, remember there are some tasty dishes that won’t cost you an arm and a leg OR your heart and waistline!
Submitted by:
UTK Dietetic Intern
Chili’s received 4 out of 5 Forks because non-fried appetizers are not available. Chili’s offers dine-in and carry out meals at multiple locations throughout the Knoxville area.
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