The paleo diet, also known as the "caveman diet," emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods that our ancestors would have eaten. Chipotle, chipotle restaurant & nutrition with its fresh ingredients and customizable menu, offers several options that align well with paleo guidelines. This guide will help you navigate the menu, make the best choices, and enjoy a satisfying meal while staying true to your dietary goals.
What is the Paleo Diet?
The paleo diet focuses on:
Lean proteins (grass-fed meats, poultry, fish, etc.)
Vegetables
Fruits
Nuts and seeds
Healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, coconut oil)
The diet excludes:
Grains
Dairy
Legumes
Refined sugar
Processed foods
With these principles in mind, here’s how to create a paleo-friendly Chipotle meal.
Step 1: Choose Your Base
Chipotle offers several bases, but to adhere to paleo guidelines, you'll need to skip:
White Rice
Brown Rice
Beans
Instead, opt for:
Lettuce Base: A crisp, refreshing, and low-calorie option that provides a solid foundation for your paleo meal.
Step 2: Add Protein
Chipotle's protein options are rich in flavor, but not all are paleo-compliant. Here's what to choose:
Chicken: A great paleo option, grilled to perfection without added sugar or processed ingredients.
Steak: Rich in protein and perfect for paleo diets.
Barbacoa: This slow-cooked beef is tender and well-seasoned without non-paleo additives.
Carnitas: Made from seasoned pork, it's a delicious paleo choice.
Avoid: Sofritas, which contain soy (a legume) and aren't paleo-friendly.
Step 3: Load Up on Veggies
Chipotle offers a variety of vegetables that enhance flavor and nutrition:
Fajita Veggies (grilled onions and peppers): A delicious and paleo-friendly option.
Fresh Tomato Salsa (mild salsa): A low-calorie, refreshing choice made with tomatoes, cilantro, and lime.
Tomatillo Green Chili Salsa: A tangy, medium-heat option with no non-paleo ingredients.
Avoid: Corn Salsa and Roasted Chili-Corn Salsa since corn is not paleo-approved.
Step 4: Add Healthy Fats
Healthy fats are a key part of the paleo diet. Fortunately, Chipotle offers some excellent options:
Guacamole: Packed with healthy fats and fiber, guacamole is a perfect addition to your paleo bowl.
Extra Olive Oil (upon request): For added flavor and richness.
Step 5: Skip Non-Paleo Toppings
For a strictly paleo meal, avoid:
Cheese
Sour Cream
Queso
Chips (since they are made from corn and cooked in non-paleo oils)
Sample Paleo Orders at Chipotle
Here are some practical meal ideas to inspire your next visit:
Paleo Chicken Bowl
Lettuce base
Chicken
Fajita veggies
Fresh tomato salsa
Guacamole
Paleo Steak Salad
Lettuce base
Steak
Tomatillo green salsa
Guacamole
Carnitas Bowl
Lettuce base
Carnitas
Fajita veggies
Fresh tomato salsa
Extra guacamole for added fats
Pro Tips for Ordering Paleo at Chipotle
Double Up on Protein: For added fullness and muscle-building benefits, consider adding extra meat.
Embrace Veggies: Chipotle’s fajita veggies and salsas provide essential nutrients and flavor.
Portion Control: Since guacamole is calorie-dense, keep an eye on your portion sizes if you're aiming for weight loss.
Ask for Extra Lettuce: To boost volume without extra calories, request more lettuce as a base.
Nutritional Benefits of Paleo Eating at Chipotle
Eating paleo at Chipotle has several advantages:
High Protein: Essential for muscle repair and growth.
Rich in Fiber: Thanks to the abundance of vegetables.
Healthy Fats: Avocados provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Low in Processed Ingredients: Chipotle's focus on fresh, real food fits well with paleo principles.
Final Thoughts
Sticking to paleo guidelines at Chipotle is easy when you know what to choose. Focus on fresh greens, lean proteins, veggies, and healthy fats while avoiding grains, legumes, and dairy. With these tips, you can enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal that aligns with your paleo lifestyle. Whether you're new to paleo or a seasoned pro, Chipotle offers a variety of tasty options to keep your meals both healthy and enjoyable.
