Every Fast Food Chain Ranked by Average Coach Score

Of course. Here is the article written in the voice of a Snackly nutrition writer.

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We get it. Life is busy, and sometimes, the drive-thru is the only-thru. You want to make a smart choice, but navigating menus filled with marketing jargon and hidden nutritional traps can feel like a full-time job. Is "crispy" just a code word for "fried"? Is that "artisan" sandwich actually a calorie bomb?

That’s why we’re cutting through the noise. At Snackly, we use data, not marketing, to help you decide what to eat. We analyzed the full menus of 50 of America's most popular fast food and fast-casual chains to calculate their average Coach Score. This single number tells you, on average, how healthy a chain's entire menu is. Now you can finally see who's genuinely serving up quality and who's just talking a good game.

Why This Ranking Matters

In an era where we demand transparency in everything from our clothes to our coffee, food should be no different. You’re more health-conscious than ever, but chains often make it difficult to understand what you're truly eating. This ranking isn't about food shaming; it's about empowerment. By looking at the average nutritional quality of a chain’s entire menu, we can see which brands build their business on a foundation of healthy options versus those that just offer one or two token "light" items. This data-driven list helps you make informed decisions that align with your health goals, even on your busiest days.

The Rankings

We've ranked 50 chains from top to bottom based on their average Coach Score, a 0-100 metric that assesses the overall nutritional quality of a food item. A higher score means a healthier choice.

1. Waba Grill

Average Coach Score: 60 Best Bite: WaBa Salad with Chicken (260 cal, 30g protein, Coach Score: 71/100)

*Commentary:* Topping our list is Waba Grill, and it’s no surprise. Their entire concept is built around fresh, grilled proteins and vegetables served simply. With a focus on lean chicken and steak over rice or in salads, it's hard to make a truly "bad" choice here, which is why their average score is so high.

2. Sweetgreen

Average Coach Score: 59 Best Bite: Kale Caesar with Chicken (510 cal, 42g protein, Coach Score: 64/100)

*Commentary:* A darling of the healthy lunch scene, Sweetgreen scores exceptionally well. Their high-quality ingredients and customizable salads are a huge win. The only thing keeping them from the #1 spot is the potential for high-calorie dressings and toppings to sneak into an otherwise pristine bowl.

3. Starbucks

Average Coach Score: 58 Best Bite: Grande Caffe Latte (Nonfat) (130 cal, 13g protein, Coach Score: 72/100)

*Commentary:* Starbucks at #3 might raise some eyebrows, given its reputation for sugar-loaded Frappuccinos. However, its core menu of coffee, tea, and simple espresso drinks scores very well. The lesson here is that your daily Starbucks run *can* be healthy if you stick to the basics and avoid the whipped cream-topped dessert drinks and pastries.

4. McDonald's

Average Coach Score: 54 Best Bite: Apple Slices (15 cal, 0g protein, Coach Score: 70/100)

*Commentary:* This is one of the biggest surprises on our list. McDonald's high average is a story of extremes: a menu with very low-scoring items (Big Macs, fries) is balanced by very high-scoring, simple items like Apple Slices and black coffee. This high average doesn't mean everything is healthy, but it shows that smart, simple choices are readily available.

5. Subway

Average Coach Score: 54 Best Bite: 6" Oven Roasted Chicken Sub (270 cal, 20g protein, Coach Score: 63/100)

*Commentary:* "Eat Fresh" holds up, for the most part. Subway’s model of lean proteins and unlimited veggies gives you the tools to build a high-scoring meal. Their average is held back by footlongs loaded with cheese, bacon, and creamy sauces, but a simple 6-inch on wheat is a reliable choice.

6. Five Guys

Average Coach Score: 54 Best Bite: Little Hamburger (540 cal, 27g protein, Coach Score: 59/100)

*Commentary:* Tied with Subway and McDonald's, Five Guys is an interesting case. Their "Little Hamburger" is a solid, no-frills option with a decent Coach Score. However, the brand is known for massive portions of fries and free peanuts, which can quickly turn a reasonable meal into a nutritional disaster.

7. Culver's

Average Coach Score: 54 Best Bite: Garden Fresco Salad with Grilled Chicken (310 cal, 32g protein, Coach Score: 66/100)

*Commentary:* While famous for its ButterBurgers and frozen custard, Culver's offers some genuinely high-quality salads. The availability of grilled chicken and fresh greens helps boost its overall average score significantly, proving you can find balance even at a place known for indulgence.

8. Chipotle Mexican Grill

Average Coach Score: 53 Best Bite: Chicken Burrito Bowl (no rice) (410 cal, 46g protein, Coach Score: 64/100)

*Commentary:* Chipotle is a masterclass in customization. You can build a bowl that scores in the 60s or one that scores in the 30s. Skipping the rice, cheese, and sour cream in favor of extra protein and fajita veggies is the key to unlocking its high-scoring potential.

9. Chick-fil-A

Average Coach Score: 53 Best Bite: Grilled Nuggets (12 ct) (200 cal, 38g protein, Coach Score: 72/100)

*Commentary:* Chick-fil-A is a tale of two menus. Their grilled options are nutritional powerhouses, with the Grilled Nuggets earning a stellar 72 Coach Score. However, the popular fried chicken sandwiches, waffle fries, and milkshakes bring their overall average down.

10. CAVA

Average Coach Score: 53 Best Bite: Grilled Chicken Greens & Grains Bowl (540 cal, 40g protein, Coach Score: 64/100)

*Commentary:* Similar to Chipotle, CAVA puts the power in your hands. With a Mediterranean-inspired menu full of lean proteins, grains, and veggies, it’s easy to build a healthy meal. Be mindful of the dips and dressings, as options like Crazy Feta and Harissa can add up in sodium and fat.

11. IHOP

Average Coach Score: 53 Best Bite: Grilled Tilapia (310 cal, 36g protein, Coach Score: 69/100)

*Commentary:* The International House of Pancakes has more to offer than just pancakes. Their menu includes solid lunch and dinner entrees, like grilled fish and chicken, that score very well. This helps balance out the lower-scoring stacks of syrup-drenched pancakes and omelets.

12. Outback Steakhouse

Average Coach Score: 53 Best Bite: 6 oz Victoria's Filet Mignon (270 cal, 40g protein, Coach Score: 72/100)

*Commentary:* A simple, perfectly cooked steak is a high-protein, high-quality meal, and Outback's star filet proves it. The chain's average score is hurt by the Bloomin' Onion, loaded baked potatoes, and creamy sauces that accompany many dishes.

13. Wendy's

Average Coach Score: 52 Best Bite: Grilled Chicken Sandwich (370 cal, 35g protein, Coach Score: 63/100)

*Commentary:* Wendy's has long been a haven for those seeking a healthier fast food option, and their Grilled Chicken Sandwich is a classic example. While the Frosty and Baconator drag down the average, their chili and salads offer other decent alternatives.

14. Whataburger

Average Coach Score: 52 Best Bite: Garden Salad with Grilled Chicken (230 cal, 28g protein, Coach Score: 66/100)

*Commentary:* Beyond the massive burgers, Whataburger has a respectable salad game. Opting for grilled chicken over fried and choosing a light vinaigrette can get you a meal with a great Coach Score.

15. Carl's Jr

Average Coach Score: 52 Best Bite: Side Salad (no dressing) (50 cal, 3g protein, Coach Score: 69/100)

*Commentary:* Carl's Jr. offers a basic but high-scoring side salad. The fact that this is their best item suggests that the main event—the burgers—don't fare as well nutritionally. It's a classic case of the supporting actor outshining the star.

16. Burger King

Average Coach Score: 51 Best Bite: Garden Side Salad (60 cal, 3g protein, Coach Score: 65/100)

*Commentary:* Much like its competitors, Burger King's highest-scoring item is a simple salad. While you can "Have It Your Way," most ways at BK lead to lower Coach Scores. Still, it's good to know a fresh option exists.

17. Taco Bell

Average Coach Score: 50 Best Bite: Crunchy Taco (170 cal, 8g protein, Coach Score: 52/100)

*Commentary:* The simple, classic Crunchy Taco is a surprisingly balanced choice and Taco Bell's best bite. The "Fresco Style" hack (swapping cheese and sauce for pico de gallo) is your best friend for improving the Coach Score of almost any item on the menu.

18. In-N-Out Burger

Average Coach Score: 50 Best Bite: French Fries (395 cal, 7g protein, Coach Score: 54/100)

*Commentary:* It's a red flag when a chain's highest-scoring item is its french fries. While delicious, this indicates that the burgers and shakes score even lower. The famous "Protein Style" (lettuce wrap) burger is a better bet if you're looking for a higher Coach Score.

19. The Cheesecake Factory

Average Coach Score: 50 Best Bite: Grilled Salmon (670 cal, 54g protein, Coach Score: 66/100)

*Commentary:* Famous for its novel-length menu and colossal portions, The Cheesecake Factory is a minefield. While you can find excellent dishes like grilled salmon, the average score is decimated by pasta dishes, specialty entrees, and, of course, the cheesecake, which often contain more calories than a person needs in a day.

20. Jack in the Box

Average Coach Score: 49 Best Bite: Grilled Chicken Salad (250 cal, 27g protein, Coach Score: 61/100)

*Commentary:* Jack in the Box follows the familiar pattern: their salads with grilled protein are the saving grace. The rest of the menu, known for its indulgent burgers and all-day breakfast, brings the average down.

21. Zaxby's

Average Coach Score: 49 Best Bite: Grilled House Zalad (390 cal, 36g protein, Coach Score: 62/100)

*Commentary:* Zaxby's "Zalads" are popular, but the key is choosing grilled chicken. Their signature fried chicken "Fingerz" and Texas Toast are what pull their average score into the 40s.

22. Dairy Queen

Average Coach Score: 49 Best Bite: Small Vanilla Cone (230 cal, 6g protein, Coach Score: 57/100)

*Commentary:* At a place named Dairy Queen, it's fitting that a simple cone is the best option. The Blizzards and burger baskets are what drag the score down. If you're there for a treat, the classic cone is a perfectly reasonable choice.

23. Noodles & Company

Average Coach Score: 49 Best Bite: Zucchini Pesto with Grilled Chicken (Regular) (480 cal, 35g protein, Coach Score: 59/100)

*Commentary:* Noodles & Company has made strides with its "zoodles" and "caulifloodles." These veggie-based noodle dishes are your ticket to a higher Coach Score. The traditional pasta bowls, especially those with creamy sauces, tend to be heavy on refined carbs and fat.

24. Qdoba Mexican Eats

Average Coach Score: 49 Best Bite: Grilled Chicken Protein Bowl (no rice) (410 cal, 42g protein, Coach Score: 62/100)

*Commentary:* Like its competitors, Qdoba offers a path to health via customization. Their protein bowls are a great start, but the free-for-all on queso and creamy sauces can quickly lower an item's Coach Score.

25. Blaze Pizza

Average Coach Score: 49 Best Bite: S'more Dough (360 cal, 5g protein, Coach Score: 54/100)

*Commentary:* Another warning sign: the best item is a dessert. While the "build your own" pizza concept is great, a foundation of refined-flour dough and cheese makes it tough to achieve a high Coach Score, no matter how many veggies you add.

26. MOD Pizza

Average Coach Score: 49 Best Bite: Lucy Sunshine Pizza (11-inch) (840 cal, 42g protein, Coach Score: 52/100)

*Commentary:* MOD's scores are similar to Blaze's. The crust and cheese provide a low-scoring base that's hard to overcome. Even their "best" pizza has a modest Coach Score of 52, highlighting the challenge of making pizza a truly "healthy" meal.

27. Sonic Drive-In

Average Coach Score: 48 Best Bite: Grilled Chicken Sandwich (440 cal, 31g protein, Coach Score: 55/100)

*Commentary:* Sonic's sprawling menu of burgers, hot dogs, and slushies is tough to navigate. The grilled chicken sandwich is a beacon of hope, offering a respectable score in a sea of fried foods and sugary drinks.

28. Del Taco

Average Coach Score: 48 Best Bite: Grilled Chicken Taco (2 pc) (300 cal, 20g protein, Coach Score: 55/100)

*Commentary:* Simple is better at Del Taco. The grilled chicken tacos are a solid choice. Avoid the "Epic" burritos and anything smothered in cheese to keep your meal's Coach Score from plummeting.

29. Jersey Mike's

Average Coach Score: 48 Best Bite: #7 Turkey & Provolone (Regular, on wheat) (530 cal, 34g protein, Coach Score: 52/100)

*Commentary:* A simple turkey sub on wheat is a decent option, but the giant-sized portions and oil-and-vinegar "Juice" can add hundreds of calories. The key here is portion control: stick to a regular size and go easy on the mayo and oil.

30. Denny's

Average Coach Score: 48 Best Bite: Wild Alaska Salmon (470 cal, 40g protein, Coach Score: 64/100)

*Commentary:* The "Grand Slam" may be its claim to fame, but Denny's offers well-balanced dinner entrees like grilled salmon. The 24/7 breakfast menu, loaded with pancakes, sausage, and hash browns, is what keeps its average score down.

31. Raising Cane's

Average Coach Score: 47 Best Bite: Crinkle-Cut Fries (Regular) (330 cal, 5g protein, Coach Score: 54/100)

*Commentary:* With a menu almost exclusively composed of fried chicken fingers, crinkle-cut fries, and Texas toast, it's no shock that Cane's ranks low. When the fries are your best bet, you know you're in for an indulgence.

32. Firehouse Subs

Average Coach Score: 47 Best Bite: Side Salad (90 cal, 4g protein, Coach Score: 63/100)

*Commentary:* Firehouse's hearty, fully-loaded subs with mayo and cheese are popular for a reason, but they don't score well. The humble side salad is their nutritional champion, a small victory on a menu of heavy hitters.

33. Panera Bread

Average Coach Score: 46 Best Bite: Steel Cut Oatmeal with Blueberries (290 cal, 7g protein, Coach Score: 61/100)

*Commentary:* Panera's low ranking is one of our most shocking findings. Despite its "clean" food reputation, the menu is filled with high-calorie sandwiches, creamy soups, and sugary pastries. The simple oatmeal is a standout, but it can't lift the average of the entire menu.

34. Panda Express

Average Coach Score: 46 Best Bite: Grilled Teriyaki Chicken (300 cal, 36g protein, Coach Score: 71/100)

*Commentary:* Panda Express has one of the best single items on our entire list: the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken. The problem? It's surrounded by lower-scoring fried options and carb-heavy sides like chow mein and fried rice, which tank the chain's overall average.

35. Shake Shack

Average Coach Score: 46 Best Bite: Crinkle Cut Fries (420 cal, 5g protein, Coach Score: 53/100)

*Commentary:* The gourmet burgers and creamy shakes that give this chain its name are also what give it a low average score. Like at Cane's and In-N-Out, the fries are the "best" of the available options, which is a telling sign.

36. White Castle

Average Coach Score: 46 Best Bite: Impossible Slider (210 cal, 12g protein, Coach Score: 55/100)

*Commentary:* The addition of the Impossible Slider provides a slightly more balanced option than the classic beef slider. Still, the menu is dominated by small, easy-to-overeat burgers and fried sides, landing it in the bottom half of our list.

37. Arby's

Average Coach Score: 45 Best Bite: Roast Turkey Farmhouse Salad (230 cal, 24g protein, Coach Score: 56/100)

*Commentary:* Arby's has the meats, but they're often piled high on white bread with cheese and sauces. The turkey salad is a much-needed lighter option, but the core menu of roast beef sandwiches and curly fries keeps the average score low.

38. Checkers/Rally's

Average Coach Score: 45 Best Bite: Banana Milkshake (Regular) (570 cal, 10g protein, Coach Score: 54/100)

*Commentary:* You know it's a tough menu when a 570-calorie milkshake is the highest-scoring item. Famous for its seasoned fries and indulgent burgers, Checkers/Rally's is built for flavor, not high nutritional scores.

39. Applebee's

Average Coach Score: 45 Best Bite: Grilled Chicken Breast (390 cal, 44g protein, Coach Score: 58/100)

*Commentary:* Like other sit-down chains, Applebee's offers simple grilled proteins that score well. But the menu is dominated by appetizers, burgers, and entrees loaded with cheese, bacon, and sauces that significantly lower the overall average.

40. Chili's Grill & Bar

Average Coach Score: 44 Best Bite: 6 oz Sirloin with Grilled Avocado (350 cal, 38g protein, Coach Score: 61/100)

*Commentary:* Chili's offers a great steak option, but it can't make up for the Big Mouth Burgers, sizzling fajitas loaded with toppings, and baby back ribs. Portion sizes and heavy sauces are the primary culprits for its low score.

41. TGI Friday's

Average Coach Score: 44 Best Bite: Grilled Chicken Breast (380 cal, 44g protein, Coach Score: 61/100)

*Commentary:* The story repeats itself: a simple grilled chicken breast is the star performer. The rest of the menu, heavy on fried appetizers, signature cocktails, and loaded entrees, anchors the chain near the bottom of the list.

42. KFC

Average Coach Score: 43 Best Bite: Grilled Chicken Breast (210 cal, 38g protein, Coach Score: 71/100)

*Commentary:* Kentucky Fried Chicken does have a grilled option, and it's fantastic, earning a 71 Coach Score. But the brand is built on its Original Recipe fried chicken, which makes up the vast majority of its menu and results in a very low average.

43. Jason's Deli

Average Coach Score: 43 Best Bite: Fresh Fruit Cup (80 cal, 1g protein, Coach Score: 61/100)

*Commentary:* Another victim of the "health halo," Jason's Deli scores surprisingly low. While they have a famous salad bar, their massive sandwiches, baked potatoes "the size of your head," and free ice cream drag the average down significantly.

44. Olive Garden

Average Coach Score: 42 Best Bite: Herb-Grilled Salmon (510 cal, 52g protein, Coach Score: 68/100)

*Commentary:* You can find a fantastic piece of grilled salmon at Olive Garden. But when you factor in unlimited breadsticks, giant bowls of pasta, and creamy Alfredo sauce, the average Coach Score plummets.

45. Buffalo Wild Wings

Average Coach Score: 42 Best Bite: Grilled Chicken Salad (520 cal, 42g protein, Coach Score: 51/100)

*Commentary:* Even the "best" item here, a salad, only earns a 51 Coach Score, likely due to dressing and other toppings. The core menu of fried wings drenched in sugary and salty sauces makes this a very difficult place to find a high-scoring meal.

46. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen

Average Coach Score: 41 Best Bite: Blackened Chicken Tenders (3 pc) (170 cal, 26g protein, Coach Score: 53/100)

*Commentary:* The Blackened Tenders are a rare non-fried gem on the Popeyes menu, offering a decent Coach Score. However, they are vastly outnumbered by fried chicken and buttery biscuits, leading to a low overall rank.

47. Cracker Barrel

Average Coach Score: 41 Best Bite: Grilled Sirloin Steak (8 oz) (400 cal, 50g protein, Coach Score: 68/100)

*Commentary:* Cracker Barrel offers a solid grilled steak. But the country-style menu is defined by gravy, fried entrees, and sides loaded with butter and bacon, firmly placing it in the bottom 10.

48. Red Lobster

Average Coach Score: 40 Best Bite: Wood-Grilled Salmon (470 cal, 42g protein, Coach Score: 59/100)

*Commentary:* Even with access to grilled seafood, Red Lobster's score is sunk by its Cheddar Bay Biscuits, fried shrimp platters, and butter-drenched lobster tails. The sides and starters are what turn lean protein into a low-scoring meal.

49. Jimmy John's

Average Coach Score: 39 Best Bite: #4 Turkey Tom (Regular) (520 cal, 22g protein, Coach Score: 48/100)

*Commentary:* Jimmy John's "freaky fast" subs come at a nutritional cost. Even its best-scoring item, a simple turkey sub, can't crack a 50 Coach Score due to the large portions of bread and mayo. The lack of veggies beyond lettuce and tomato limits its potential.

50. Wingstop

Average Coach Score: 36 Best Bite: Large Fries (480 cal, 5g protein, Coach Score: 52/100)

*Commentary:* At the bottom of our list is Wingstop. The menu is a nutritional trifecta of fried wings, sugary sauces, and salty fries. With fries being the highest-scoring item, it's clear that this is a destination for pure indulgence, not balanced nutrition.

Surprising Findings

Looking at the data, a few things jumped out at us. First, McDonald's ranking at #4 was a shock, but it highlights how a menu with simple, high-scoring staples (coffee, apple slices) can lift the average, even if the main entrees aren't great. Second, the "Health Halo" is a myth. Chains like Panera Bread (#33) and Jason's Deli (#43), often perceived as healthy, ranked in the bottom half. This proves that marketing and reality are two different things. Finally, seeing fries or desserts as the "best item" at places like In-N-Out (#18) and Raising Cane's (#31) is a major red flag, showing that their core offerings score even lower.

Key Takeaways

* Don't trust the brand, trust the data. A chain’s reputation doesn't always match its menu's reality. Use a tool like Snackly to see the score for the specific item you're considering.

* Grilled over everything. Whether it's chicken, fish, or steak, choosing grilled protein instead of fried is the single biggest upgrade you can make at almost any chain.

* Customization is your superpower. At places like Chipotle and CAVA, you are in control. Build your meal with a base of greens and double protein, and skip the creamy sauces and extra cheese.

* Beware of the sides and sauces. A high-scoring main can be ruined by low-scoring sides like fries, creamy dressings, or sugary drinks. A side salad or fruit is almost always a better choice.

* Everywhere has a "best" option. Even chains at the bottom of the list have a highest-scoring item. If you find yourself at Wingstop, knowing what to choose can make a big difference.

Methodology

The Coach Score is a proprietary 0-100 score from Snackly that provides an at-a-glance assessment of a food's nutritional quality. It goes beyond calories, balancing positive nutrients like protein and fiber against negative components like added sugar, saturated fat, and sodium. This provides a more holistic view of health, helping you choose foods that are not just low in calories, but are also genuinely better for you.

FAQ

Q: Why is a place like McDonald's ranked higher than Panera?

This is usually due to the menu's composition. McDonald's has many simple, high-scoring items (black coffee, tea, apple slices) that pull its average up, while Panera's menu is heavy with large sandwiches, creamy soups, and baked goods that, on average, score lower.

Q: Does a high Coach Score mean I can eat as much as I want?

No, the Coach Score measures the nutritional *quality* of an item, not the appropriate *quantity*. Portion size is still crucial for managing calorie intake and overall health. Think of it as a guide to choosing a better option, not a license to overeat.

Q: I thought all salads were healthy. Why do some score so low?

A salad is only as healthy as what you put on it. Many chain restaurant salads are loaded with fried chicken, bacon, cheese, and creamy dressings that can pack more calories, fat, and sodium than a burger, resulting in a low Coach Score.

Q: My favorite chain is at the bottom of the list. Do I have to stop eating there?

Absolutely not! This list is about awareness, not restriction. Knowing your favorite spot has a low average score just means it's more important to be mindful when you order. Use the Snackly app to find the best available option on the menu and enjoy it.

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