Knowing the calorie and nutritional content of menu items at popular chain restaurants like Chili’s can help consumers make informed choices when dining out. Chili’s margarita chicken is one of the Tex-Mex chain’s most popular entrees, combining grilled chicken, lime margarita sauce, and creamy mashed potatoes. So how many calories are in a Chili’s margarita chicken order? Let’s take a closer look.
Calories in Chili’s Margarita Chicken Entrée
According to the Chili’s nutrition information guide, a full order of margarita chicken with mashed potatoes contains the following:
- Grilled Chicken Breast (6 oz): 230 calories
- Margarita Lime Sauce (2 oz): 140 calories
- Mashed Potatoes (1 cup): 220 calories
Total calories for the full entrée: 590 calories
So a standard full plate order of Chili’s margarita chicken with mashed potatoes contains around 590 calories. This is a moderate calorie meal for one entrée at a chain sit-down restaurant.
Nutrition Information for Chili’s Margarita Chicken
In addition to calories, the nutritional values for Chili’s margarita chicken are:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 110 mg |
| Sodium | 930 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 50 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Protein | 29 g |
As you can see, while the margarita chicken provides a good amount of protein, it is also high in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium. The full plate contains over half of the recommended daily value for saturated fat and sodium.
Ways to Reduce Calories in Chili’s Margarita Chicken
If you want to lighten up this Chili’s favorite, there are a few simple ways to reduce the calorie count:
- Order a half portion of the chicken breast instead of full (cuts around 115 calories)
- Substitute broccoli or mixed veggies instead of mashed potatoes (saves around 110 calories)
- Request light margarita sauce on the side (saves around 70 calories)
- Ask for olive oil instead of butter on vegetables (saves around 100 calories)
- Share an order with a friend and get a half serving of each item
Implementing just one or two of these swaps can shave off 200+ calories from the total meal. You can still enjoy the flavors of Chili’s famous margarita chicken while making it a lighter option.
Margarita Chicken Calories Compared to Other Chili’s Entrees
How does Chili’s margarita chicken compare calorie-wise to some of the restaurant’s other popular entrees? Here’s a look:
| Chili’s Entree | Calories |
|---|---|
| Margarita Chicken with mashed potatoes | 590 calories |
| Classic Sirloin with mashed potatoes | 670 calories |
| Cajun Chicken Pasta | 1050 calories |
| Chicken Crispers (10 pieces) | 1410 calories |
| Oldtimer with Cheese | 790 calories |
The margarita chicken is on the lower end of the calorie range compared to these other popular picks. The Cajun pasta and chicken crispers contain significantly more calories and fat. Overall, margarita chicken is a good moderate calorie option if you are watching your intake.
Tips for Ordering Low Calorie at Chili’s
If you want to keep your meal as low calorie as possible at Chili’s, some helpful tips include:
- Opt for grilled proteins like chicken, shrimp or salmon
- Ask for steamed, grilled or fresh vegetables instead of heavy sides
- Request all dressings and sauces on the side
- Avoid fried appetizers and extras like chips, queso, or bacon
- Order water or unsweetened tea instead of high calorie beverages
- Share an appetizer or dessert instead of individual portions
Being mindful of preparation methods, ingredients, and portions can help you enjoy your Chili’s favorites while still watching calories. An occasional indulgent meal won’t sabotage your goals as long as you get back on track.
Should You Avoid Chili’s Margarita Chicken if Trying to Lose Weight?
While Chili’s margarita chicken is higher in calories and fat compared to homemade clean eating options, it can absolutely still fit into a weight loss diet when enjoyed in moderation. Here are some tips if ordering it while trying to lose weight:
- Aim to split a half portion or take half home for leftovers
- Pair it with lower calorie sides like broccoli or salad
- Don’t add extra chips, cheese, or toppings that increase calories
- Have it only on special occasions, not regularly
- Account for it in your daily calorie target by eating lighter earlier in the day
An occasional indulgence at Chili’s won’t sabotage your weight loss goals. Just be mindful of portions, frequency, and balancing it out with lots of nutritious low calorie foods in your daily diet. Moderation and balance is key.
Healthier Chili’s Menu Options
If you want to choose a lower calorie meal at Chili’s, some of the healthier menu options include:
Grilled Chicken Plates
Grilled chicken dishes like the Cajun chicken pasta, lighter version of margarita chicken, or chili lime chicken all provide lean protein. Ask for modifications like easy on cheese or sauces and extra vegetables.
Salads
Chili’s offers a variety of salad options like BBQ ranch, chili lime, or margarita chicken salads. Load up on veggies and go easy on fried toppings and high calorie dressings.
Skinny Margarita Chicken
This lighter version uses salsa instead of the creamy margarita sauce and saves over 200 calories compared to the original.
Guiltless Grill Items
The “Guiltless Grill” menu features lower calorie options with grilled proteins and veggie sides.
Fresh Mex Bowls
Build your own bowl with cilantro lime rice, beans, pico, and grilled veggies or protein.
Conclusion
Chili’s famous margarita chicken dish packs a solid nutritional punch at 590 calories for chicken, mashed potatoes, and the signature margarita sauce. While on the lower end for Chili’s entrees, it is still moderately high in calories, fat, and sodium. Those watching their weight can tailor the meal by asking for light sauce, less chicken, and swapping sides. Overall, the dish can fit into a healthy diet when enjoyed occasionally in moderation, along with a balanced lifestyle.