You walk into Moe’s. Choices everywhere. But which ones fuel your body best? Most skip the labels. But smart eaters check twice. Whether you’re watching sodium, calories, or carbs — not all bowls are built equal.
This guide strips the guesswork. We’re ranking the ten healthiest items at Moe’s Southwest Grill based on nutritional facts, not guesses. Real data. Real food. Real results. No fluff — only items that help, not harm.
What Makes a Menu Item “Healthy”?
At Moe’s, not every low-cal item is a smart pick. Numbers alone don’t tell the full story. A healthy choice balances macros, avoids excess sodium, and skips empty fillers. Think lean proteins. Fiber-rich bases. Low added sugars. Moderate fats — not just less, but better quality. Ingredients matter: grilled > fried, whole beans > refried, fresh salsa > creamy dressings.
We also look at portion control, since massive calorie bombs often hide behind “build-your-own” options. Healthy doesn’t mean tasteless — it means nutrient-dense and satisfying without regret. That’s the filter we’ve used. No hype. Just function.
Top 10 Healthiest Items at Moe’s
- Earmuffs Bowl with Chicken (no queso)
- Chicken Burrito Bowl with Brown Rice and Black Beans
- Veggie Burrito Bowl with Pinto Beans and Grilled Vegetables
- Chicken Taco on Whole Grain Shell (lettuce, pico, avocado)
- Power Wagon Kids Meal with Chicken and Black Beans
- El Guapo Salad with Chicken, No Queso, Vinaigrette on Side
- Mini Masterpiece with Pinto Beans and Veggies
- Chicken Stack with Fresh Salsa and No Cheese
- Tofu Bowl with Brown Rice, Black Beans, and Veggies
- Grilled Chicken Quesadilla (Light Cheese, Add Veggies, No Sour Cream)
Finding smart picks at Moe’s isn’t about ordering the lightest dish. It’s about balance. You want meals that support your goals — whether that’s low-carb, high-protein, or clean fuel with minimal additives. The picks above check those boxes. Each one offers solid nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.
1. Earmuffs Bowl with Chicken (No Queso)
This bowl strikes a solid balance of protein, fiber, and flavor without overloading on calories. Opting out of queso drops the fat content significantly. With grilled chicken, brown rice, black beans, and a handful of vegetables, it totals around 550–600 calories. Ideal for those who want a filling meal without excess. Add salsa or pico for taste without added calories.
2. Chicken Burrito Bowl with Brown Rice and Black Beans
Skip the tortilla and go straight for the bowl. This version features grilled chicken, hearty black beans, and brown rice—offering sustained energy and fiber. It typically lands between 500–580 calories depending on toppings. Choose lettuce, pico, and jalapeños to keep it light yet flavorful.
3. Veggie Burrito Bowl with Pinto Beans and Grilled Vegetables
For plant-based eaters, this bowl is a clean pick. Pinto beans supply protein while grilled peppers and onions give it flavor without added sauces. Brown rice adds bulk and nutrients. This combo ranges around 450–520 calories and is fiber-dense, helping you feel full longer.
4. Chicken Taco on Whole Grain Shell (Lettuce, Pico, Avocado)
Smaller portions make tacos easier to manage in terms of calorie control. A single taco with grilled chicken, fresh pico, and a few slices of avocado in a whole grain shell clocks in at roughly 220–250 calories. It’s simple, quick, and keeps your macros in check without sacrificing taste.
5. Power Wagon Kids Meal with Chicken and Black Beans
Don’t overlook the kids’ menu. The Power Wagon with grilled chicken and black beans sits at around 300–350 calories. It’s portioned for smaller appetites but hits nutritional goals with clean protein and fiber. A great option for lighter eaters or controlled calorie intake.
6. El Guapo Salad with Chicken, No Queso, Vinaigrette on Side
Skip the queso and ask for dressing on the side to manage fats. This salad includes greens, grilled chicken, beans, and veggies, hitting about 450–520 calories. It’s a refreshing switch from heavier options and lets you build in more veggies without much effort.
7. Mini Masterpiece with Pinto Beans and Veggies
It’s on the kids’ menu but makes a smart adult snack or light lunch. Pinto beans offer fiber, and the added veggies help round it out nutritionally. Expect this to stay under 300 calories depending on build. Use it to satisfy a craving without overdoing it.
8. Chicken Stack with Fresh Salsa and No Cheese
Stacks are like paninis with a twist. Order it without cheese and add fresh salsa to cut the fat. Chicken brings the protein while tortillas bring just enough carbs for fuel. This combo usually lands near 450–500 calories, and works for people wanting something warm without overload.
9. Tofu Bowl with Brown Rice, Black Beans, and Veggies
Plant-based, protein-rich, and deeply satisfying. The tofu adds a meaty bite while black beans and brown rice keep it filling. Roasted vegetables bring both taste and nutrition. This bowl falls around 500–540 calories and works well for vegetarians looking to eat clean.
10. Grilled Chicken Quesadilla (Light Cheese, Add Veggies, No Sour Cream)
Quesadillas can work with some tweaks. Go for grilled chicken, reduce the cheese, and pack it with veggies. Skip sour cream and use salsa if needed. The result is a meal around 550–600 calories—still satisfying, but less greasy than the default.
Pro Tips for Ordering Healthy at Moe’s
Healthy eating at Moe’s isn’t about sacrifice. It’s about smart swaps and knowing your options. With a few simple strategies, you can cut calories, reduce sodium, and still enjoy bold flavors.
Skip the queso and sour cream – These two alone can easily push your meal over 300 extra calories. Opt for salsa, avocado, or fresh pico de gallo instead.
Ask for half rice or skip it altogether – Brown rice is better than cilantro-lime white rice, but even then, portion control matters. Half a scoop still gets the job done.
Load up on vegetables – Moe’s offers grilled peppers, onions, mushrooms, lettuce, cucumbers, and more. These add volume and fiber without heavy calories.
Choose whole grain or bowl options – Skip the flour tortilla. A burrito bowl or whole-grain taco shell gives you the base without the bulk.
Protein matters – Go for grilled chicken, steak, or tofu. These are leaner choices compared to ground beef or pork.
Watch the sauces – Chipotle ranch, creamy dressings, and queso come with a high fat and sodium count. Use vinaigrette or salsa as your go-to.
Avoid double cheese or extra meat – The default serving is already enough. Extra just stacks on unnecessary calories.
Use Moe’s Nutrition Calculator – Before you order, build your meal with the Moe’s Nutrition Calculator. It gives a real-time look at calories, fat, carbs, and sodium. This keeps you informed and in control.
FAQs
1. Is Moe’s Healthy for Weight Loss?
Yes, Moe’s can fit into a weight loss plan if you customize your order. Choose a bowl instead of a burrito, skip cheese and queso, and load up on grilled veggies.
Stick with lean proteins like chicken or tofu and use the Moe’s Nutrition Calculator to stay within your calorie target.
2. What Has the Least Calories at Moe’s?
The item with the fewest calories is usually a Build-Your-Own Salad with grilled chicken, no cheese, and light salsa. It typically ranges between 350–450 calories depending on toppings.
Skipping dressing and avoiding chips can help reduce the total even more while still keeping your meal satisfying.
3. What Are High-Protein Options at Moe’s?
Grilled chicken, steak, or tofu bowls are great high-protein choices. Add black or pinto beans, and you’re looking at 30–40g of protein per meal.
Skip extras like queso or double rice to keep the meal balanced without excess calories or fat.
4. Can I Eat Keto at Moe’s Southwest Grill?
Yes, you can eat keto at Moe’s. Go for a burrito bowl without rice or beans. Choose grilled chicken, steak, or tofu, and top it with lettuce, salsa, cheese, sour cream, and guacamole.
Avoid tortillas, chips, and sugary sauces to stay within your carb limit.
5. Are Moe’s Chips Healthy?
Moe’s chips are fried and high in calories, fat, and sodium. A single serving can exceed 300 calories, not including queso or salsa.
If you’re watching your intake, it’s best to skip the chips or share a portion instead of eating the whole bag yourself.
Conclusion
Making healthier choices at Moe’s isn’t complicated. With a few smart tweaks—like choosing bowls over burritos, adding lean proteins, and skipping heavy extras—you can build a meal that fits your goals.
Whether you’re watching calories, managing carbs, or boosting protein, Moe’s offers the flexibility to keep your order both satisfying and smart.