Church’s Texas Chicken offers a diverse menu of Southern-inspired dishes, known for its flavorful fried chicken and hearty sides. While many fast food options can be high in calories, Church’s provides some lighter choices for those watching their calorie intake.
Several menu items at Church’s Texas Chicken contain 500 calories or less, allowing customers to enjoy their favorite flavors without overindulging. These lower-calorie options span various categories, including chicken pieces, sandwiches, and sides. By selecting these items, diners can maintain a balanced diet while still savoring the taste of Church’s signature offerings.
1) Chicken Breast Tender Strips
Chicken Breast Tender Strips are a popular menu item at Church’s Texas Chicken. These strips are made from white meat chicken breast, offering a leaner option compared to traditional fried chicken pieces.
The tender strips are breaded and fried to achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. They typically come in servings of 3 or 5 pieces.
A 3-piece serving of Chicken Breast Tender Strips contains approximately 340 calories. This makes them a suitable choice for those watching their calorie intake but still craving the signature Church’s Texas Chicken flavor.
The tender strips can be paired with various dipping sauces, adding flavor without significantly increasing the calorie count. They are often included in combo meals with sides and a drink.
For those seeking a protein-rich option under 500 calories, the Chicken Breast Tender Strips are a solid choice. They provide a satisfying meal while helping customers stay within their dietary goals.
2) Spicy Chicken Wing
Church’s Texas Chicken offers a flavorful option for those seeking a spicy kick without excessive calories. The Spicy Chicken Wing contains 350 calories per serving, making it a suitable choice for calorie-conscious diners.
This menu item packs a punch of bold flavors while remaining within a reasonable calorie range. The spicy seasoning adds zest without overwhelming heat, appealing to those who enjoy a moderate level of spiciness.
Each wing is cooked to crispy perfection, with juicy meat inside. The cooking method helps maintain the chicken’s moisture while creating a satisfying crunch on the outside.
Despite its relatively low calorie count, the Spicy Chicken Wing doesn’t compromise on taste or portion size. It provides a satisfying protein option that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced meal.
For those tracking their nutritional intake, it’s worth noting that 180 of the 350 calories come from fat. This information can be helpful for individuals managing their dietary fat consumption.
3) Biscuit with Honey
Church’s Texas Chicken offers a delectable Biscuit with Honey as part of their menu lineup. This item combines the restaurant’s famous scratch-made biscuit with a drizzle of sweet honey.
The biscuit itself is freshly baked throughout the day, ensuring a warm and flaky texture. When paired with honey, it creates a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.
At just under 500 calories, this menu item provides a satisfying treat without derailing dietary goals. The honey adds natural sweetness while keeping the calorie count in check.
Church’s Texas Chicken takes pride in their biscuit recipe, which has become a signature item for the brand. The addition of honey elevates the classic biscuit, offering customers a simple yet indulgent option.
This Biscuit with Honey serves as an excellent choice for those seeking a lighter menu item or a small snack. It showcases the restaurant’s commitment to providing tasty options across various calorie ranges.
4) Corn on the Cob
Corn on the Cob is a classic side dish option at Church’s Texas Chicken. This simple yet satisfying item provides a nutritious and lower-calorie alternative to some of the restaurant’s heavier offerings.
A single serving of Corn on the Cob at Church’s Texas Chicken contains approximately 170-180 calories. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a tasty side while keeping their calorie intake in check.
The corn is typically served hot and can be enjoyed plain or with a small amount of butter for added flavor. It offers a natural sweetness and a satisfying crunch that complements the savory chicken dishes on the menu.
In addition to being low in calories, Corn on the Cob provides dietary fiber and essential nutrients. It’s a versatile side that pairs well with various main dishes and can be part of a balanced meal at Church’s Texas Chicken.
5) Jalapeño Pepper
The Jalapeño Pepper at Church’s Texas Chicken is a low-calorie menu item that packs a flavorful punch. With only 5 calories per pepper, it’s an excellent choice for those watching their calorie intake.
Church’s offers these peppers as a side option, allowing customers to customize their meals. Many patrons enjoy squeezing the juice from the jalapeño onto their chicken for an extra kick of spice.
The peppers are available individually or in packs of five. This flexibility lets diners control the level of heat they add to their meals. The jalapeños provide a zesty complement to Church’s signature chicken dishes.
For those seeking a low-calorie way to enhance their meal’s flavor profile, the Jalapeño Pepper is an ideal choice. It adds minimal calories while delivering a significant boost in taste and spiciness.
6) Baked Broccoli
Baked broccoli is a nutritious and low-calorie side dish option at Church’s Texas Chicken. This vegetable is prepared by baking rather than frying, which helps keep the calorie count low.
Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. It provides a healthy complement to the restaurant’s protein-focused menu items.
The baking process enhances the natural flavors of the broccoli while maintaining its crisp texture. This preparation method also helps preserve the vegetable’s nutritional value.
Customers looking for a lighter option can pair baked broccoli with grilled chicken or other lean proteins. This combination creates a balanced meal that stays within the 500-calorie range.
Baked broccoli offers a way to incorporate more vegetables into a fast food meal. It provides a refreshing contrast to some of the heavier, fried options on the menu.
7) Grilled Chicken Sandwich
The Grilled Chicken Sandwich at Church’s Texas Chicken offers a lighter alternative to its fried counterparts. This menu item features a grilled chicken breast fillet served on a bun.
The sandwich comes with lettuce and tomato, adding freshness and crunch. It typically contains fewer calories than breaded and fried options, making it a suitable choice for those watching their calorie intake.
While exact calorie counts may vary by location, the Grilled Chicken Sandwich generally falls under the 500-calorie mark. This makes it a balanced option for those seeking a satisfying meal without excessive calories.
Customers can customize their sandwich with available sauces or toppings. However, adding extras may increase the calorie content. For those aiming to keep calories low, requesting the sandwich without mayo or additional sauces is advisable.
The Grilled Chicken Sandwich provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and satiety. It offers a flavorful option for diners looking for a leaner menu choice at Church’s Texas Chicken.
8) Small Mashed Potatoes
Church’s Texas Chicken offers a comforting side dish with their Small Mashed Potatoes. This menu item provides a satisfying taste without breaking calorie budgets.
The Small Mashed Potatoes contain approximately 110 calories per serving. This makes it a suitable option for those watching their calorie intake while still enjoying a classic comfort food.
The dish typically comes with gravy, which adds flavor but may slightly increase the calorie count. Customers can request the gravy on the side for more control over their portion.
Mashed potatoes offer some nutritional benefits, including potassium and vitamin C. They can be a filling addition to a meal without significantly impacting overall calorie consumption.
As with any menu item, actual calorie content may vary slightly based on preparation methods and serving size. Diners looking for precise nutritional information can consult Church’s Texas Chicken’s official nutrition guide.
9) Green Beans
Church’s Texas Chicken offers Green Beans as a healthier side option for calorie-conscious diners. This vegetable dish provides a nutritious alternative to some of the higher-calorie menu items.
The Regular Green Beans contain just 69 calories, making them an excellent choice for those watching their calorie intake. Even the Large Green Beans portion remains under 200 calories, at 185 calories.
Green beans are naturally low in fat and provide essential vitamins and minerals. They offer a good source of fiber, which can help with feelings of fullness and digestion.
This side dish allows customers to enjoy a tasty vegetable option while keeping their meal within a lower calorie range. It pairs well with various chicken items on the menu, creating a more balanced meal.
10) Mixed Side Salad
The Mixed Side Salad at Church’s Texas Chicken offers a lighter option for those seeking a nutritious side dish. This fresh salad typically contains a variety of crisp vegetables, providing a refreshing contrast to the restaurant’s signature fried chicken.
While exact calorie counts may vary, the Mixed Side Salad generally falls well below the 500-calorie threshold. Most basic side salads at fast food restaurants range from 100 to 200 calories, making this a smart choice for calorie-conscious diners.
The salad usually includes a mix of lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Some locations may add other vegetables like carrots or red onions for extra flavor and nutrition. To keep the calorie count low, it’s best to choose a light dressing or use it sparingly.
This side dish provides a good source of vitamins and fiber, complementing Church’s Texas Chicken’s protein-rich main courses. It’s an excellent option for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their meal while enjoying the restaurant’s popular chicken offerings.
11) Fried Okra
Fried okra is a popular side dish at Church’s Texas Chicken. This Southern favorite consists of bite-sized pieces of okra coated in a crispy batter and deep-fried to perfection.
The regular portion of fried okra contains 260 calories, making it a suitable choice for those watching their calorie intake. It provides a satisfying crunch without excessive calories.
Church’s fried okra offers 15 grams of fat and 30 grams of carbohydrates per regular serving. The unique texture and flavor of okra make it an appealing alternative to traditional french fries.
For those seeking a larger portion, Church’s also offers a large size of fried okra. However, the calorie count increases significantly to 740 calories for the larger serving.
Fried okra can be a tasty accompaniment to Church’s famous chicken or enjoyed on its own as a snack. Its crispy exterior and tender interior provide a delightful contrast in textures.
12) Spicy Drumstick
The Spicy Drumstick at Church’s Texas Chicken offers a flavorful option for those watching their calorie intake. This menu item provides a satisfying taste without exceeding the 500-calorie threshold.
Church’s Spicy Drumstick features a crispy, spice-coated exterior that delivers a kick of heat. The drumstick is made from fresh chicken, hand-battered and cooked to a golden brown.
While exact calorie information for the Spicy Drumstick isn’t provided in the search results, it’s likely to be similar to or slightly higher than the regular drumstick due to added spices. Based on typical fried chicken nutritional values, a single Spicy Drumstick is estimated to contain around 170-200 calories.
This menu item can be a good choice for those seeking a protein-rich option with a spicy flavor profile. It allows customers to enjoy Church’s signature taste while maintaining calorie consciousness.
13) Small Coleslaw
Church’s Texas Chicken offers a Small Coleslaw as a side dish option for those watching their calorie intake. This creamy, crunchy salad contains 170 calories, making it a lighter choice compared to some other menu items.
The Small Coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the restaurant’s savory fried chicken offerings. It consists of shredded cabbage and carrots mixed with a tangy dressing.
This side dish can be a good option for adding some vegetables to a meal without significantly increasing the overall calorie count. The Small Coleslaw also contains 11 grams of fat and 2 grams of saturated fat.
For customers looking to balance their meal with a lower-calorie side, the Small Coleslaw can be a suitable choice. It offers flavor and texture while helping to keep the total meal calories in check.
14) Spicy Thigh
The Spicy Thigh from Church’s Texas Chicken offers a flavorful option for those seeking a protein-packed meal under 500 calories. This menu item contains 380 calories, making it a suitable choice for calorie-conscious diners.
With 25 grams of fat, the Spicy Thigh provides a satisfying taste experience. It delivers a kick of heat without compromising on flavor, appealing to spice enthusiasts.
The Spicy Thigh contains 220 calories from fat, indicating its rich and indulgent nature. Despite its higher fat content, it still falls within the 500-calorie limit for those monitoring their intake.
This menu item is a single chicken thigh, seasoned with Church’s signature spicy blend. It offers a good balance of protein and flavor, making it a popular choice among customers seeking a bolder taste profile.
The Spicy Thigh can be enjoyed on its own or paired with lower-calorie sides to create a more complete meal while staying within calorie goals.
15) Warm Cinnamon Apples
Church’s Texas Chicken offers Warm Cinnamon Apples as a dessert option under 500 calories. This sweet treat features juicy apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon.
The apples are wrapped in a flaky crust and finished with a drizzle of sweet icing. This combination creates a satisfying balance of flavors and textures.
At around 170 calories per serving, Warm Cinnamon Apples provide a relatively light dessert choice. They offer a taste of comfort food without excessive calorie content.
For those watching their calorie intake, this menu item allows for a bit of indulgence. It can be enjoyed as part of a balanced meal or as a standalone snack.
The warm, cinnamon-spiced apples provide a familiar and comforting flavor profile. The addition of the flaky crust and sweet icing elevates this simple fruit into a more decadent dessert experience.
Understanding Nutritional Choices
Calorie management plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy diet, even when eating fast food. Church’s Texas Chicken offers several menu items under 500 calories for those seeking lighter options.
Importance of Calorie Management
Monitoring calorie intake helps control weight and supports overall health. The recommended daily calorie intake varies based on factors like age, gender, height, weight, and activity level. For a 2,000-calorie diet, experts suggest limiting saturated fat to 20 grams and sodium to 2,300 milligrams per day.
Calorie awareness allows individuals to make informed choices when dining out. By selecting lower-calorie options, people can enjoy fast food while staying within their dietary goals. This balance is key for those looking to maintain or lose weight without completely avoiding restaurant meals.
Healthier Fast Food Options
Church’s Texas Chicken provides nutritional information for its menu items, enabling customers to make informed decisions. Some healthier choices include:
- Corn on the cob (70 calories)
- Original Leg (160 calories)
- Honey-Butter Biscuit (260 calories)
These options can be part of a balanced meal when combined thoughtfully. Grilled or baked chicken items generally contain fewer calories than fried counterparts. Opting for sides like green beans or corn instead of fries can significantly reduce calorie intake.
Portion control is another effective strategy. Choosing smaller sizes or sharing larger portions can help manage calorie consumption while still enjoying favorite menu items.
Nutritional Breakdown of Menu Items
Church’s Texas Chicken offers several menu items under 500 calories. These options incorporate low-calorie ingredients and balanced macronutrients to provide satisfying meals with fewer calories.
Low-Calorie Ingredients
Church’s Texas Chicken uses lean chicken breast in many of its lower-calorie options. Grilled chicken items typically contain fewer calories than fried versions.
The restaurant also offers side dishes like corn on the cob and green beans, which are naturally low in calories. These vegetable sides provide nutrients and fiber while keeping calorie counts down.
Some menu items feature wheat buns or tortillas instead of white bread, adding more fiber and nutrients. Lettuce, tomatoes, and other fresh vegetables contribute minimal calories while enhancing flavor and texture.
Balancing Macronutrients
Church’s Texas Chicken aims to balance protein, carbohydrates, and fats in its lower-calorie menu items. Lean chicken provides high-quality protein without excessive calories or fat.
Sides like rice or beans offer complex carbohydrates for energy. The restaurant uses moderate amounts of cheese, sauces, and dressings to add flavor while limiting added fats and calories.
Some meals include a mix of grilled meat, vegetables, and whole grains to create a balanced plate. This combination helps diners feel satisfied with fewer overall calories.
Portion control plays a key role in keeping calorie counts low. Smaller serving sizes of higher-calorie items allow for more menu variety within the 500-calorie limit.