Calorie and Nutritional Breakdown by Size
The calories in Chick-fil-A's mac and cheese vary significantly depending on the serving size. Based on official information, here is the nutritional content for each option:
Small Mac & Cheese
- Calories: 260
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Protein: 11g
Medium Mac & Cheese
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Sodium: 1,190mg
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 20g
Large Mac & Cheese
- Calories: 840
- Total Fat: 53g
- Saturated Fat: 30g
- Sodium: 2,230mg
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Protein: 38g
Calories, fat, and sodium increase with larger portion sizes. Choosing a small side is a more moderate option for those managing their intake.
Mac and Cheese vs. Other Chick-fil-A Sides
Considering different side options can impact the nutritional value of your meal. Below is a comparison of the medium mac and cheese with other common sides:
| Side Item (Medium) | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mac & Cheese | 450 | 29 | 1190 | 20 |
| Waffle Fries | 420 | 24 | 240 | 5 |
| Fruit Cup | 60 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Kale Crunch Side | 140 | 11 | 240 | 4 |
The mac and cheese has more calories, significantly higher saturated fat, and more sodium compared to many other side options. While waffle fries are similar in calories, mac and cheese contains considerably more saturated fat and over twice the sodium. Dietitians highlight mac and cheese as having high levels of saturated fat and sodium.
Is Chick-fil-A's Mac and Cheese Healthy?
Chick-fil-A's mac and cheese is not typically considered a health food because of its high sodium and saturated fat content. A medium serving contains 16g of saturated fat, which is 80% of the daily recommended value based on a 2,000-calorie diet. The 1,190mg of sodium in a medium size is also more than 50% of the daily recommended intake.
However, it can still be enjoyed occasionally. Choosing the small size significantly reduces calories, sodium, and saturated fat. Pairing it with a main dish like grilled chicken can help create a more balanced meal.
Tips for Enjoying Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Responsibly
- Choose a Smaller Portion: The small size provides similar taste with fewer calories and less saturated fat.
- Make it a Shared Treat: Sharing a small or medium mac and cheese can help control portion size.
- Balance Your Meal: Combine mac and cheese with healthier options like a salad with grilled chicken for a more balanced meal.
- Consider it an Indulgence: Treat mac and cheese as an occasional item to help manage intake of sodium and saturated fat.
- Be Mindful of Sodium: Be aware of the high sodium levels, particularly if you have blood pressure concerns, and adjust your daily intake accordingly.
Conclusion
Regarding how many calories does Chick-fil-A mac and cheese have, the count varies by size: 260 for small, 450 for medium, and 840 for large. Due to high saturated fat and sodium, it's not a healthy daily choice but can be enjoyed in moderation. Choosing a smaller size and balancing it with healthier menu items allows you to enjoy this popular dish while managing your diet. Always refer to the official Chick-fil-A nutrition guide for the most accurate information.
Note: Nutrient values may vary by location and menu updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in a small Chick-fil-A mac and cheese?
A small mac and cheese from Chick-fil-A contains 260 calories.
How many calories are in a medium Chick-fil-A mac and cheese?
A medium mac and cheese from Chick-fil-A has 450 calories.
How many calories are in a large Chick-fil-A mac and cheese?
A large mac and cheese from Chick-fil-A contains 840 calories.
What are the sodium levels in Chick-fil-A mac and cheese?
The sodium content varies by size: 720mg for a small, 1,190mg for a medium, and 2,230mg for a large.
Is Chick-fil-A mac and cheese considered a healthy side option?
No, dietitians do not consider it a healthy option due to its high content of saturated fat and sodium.
How does the mac and cheese compare to Waffle Fries in calories?
A medium mac and cheese has 450 calories, while a medium Waffle Fries contains 420 calories. However, the mac and cheese has much higher saturated fat and sodium.
Can I eat Chick-fil-A mac and cheese on a diet?
Yes, it can be included as an occasional indulgence, particularly the smaller size, as long as it's balanced with other healthier choices throughout the day.
What is the saturated fat content of a medium mac and cheese?
A medium mac and cheese contains 16 grams of saturated fat, which is 80% of the recommended daily value.
What is the best way to enjoy mac and cheese from Chick-fil-A responsibly?
To enjoy it responsibly, opt for the small size and pair it with a leaner main course like grilled chicken or a salad to help balance the meal.
Citations
[ { "title": "Mac & Cheese Nutrition and Description - Chick-fil-A", "url": "https://www.chick-fil-a.com/locations/ny/queens-center-mall/menu/mac-cheese" }, { "title": "Calories in Chick-fil-A Mac & Cheese, small | CalorieKing", "url": "https://www.calorieking.com/us/en/foods/f/calories-in-sides-mac-cheese-small/49FPFs-0QGu03wY6iEH2hw" }, { "title": "Chick-fil-a Mac & Cheese, Large Nutrition Facts - Eat This Much", "url": "https://www.eatthismuch.com/calories/mac-cheese-large-4106325" }, { "title": "Side Options - Chick-fil-A", "url": "https://www.chick-fil-a.com/menu/sides" }, { "title": "Chick-fil-a Mac & Cheese, Medium Nutrition Facts - Eat This Much", "url": "https://www.eatthismuch.com/calories/mac-cheese-medium-2718235" }, { "title": "Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Nutrition Facts - Prevention", "url": "https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/healthy-eating/a28701582/chick-fil-a-mac-and-cheese-nutrition-facts/" }, { "title": "The Unhealthiest Menu Item at Chick-fil-A, According to a Dietitian", "url": "https://parade.com/health/unhealthiest-menu-item-at-chick-fil-a-according-to-a-dietitian" }, { "title": "Nutrition Guide: View Calories, Allergens, and More - Chick-fil-A", "url": "https://www.chick-fil-a.com/nutrition-allergens" } ] }
