6 Smart Ways to Get More for Your Money at Fast-Food Restaurants

Fast food doesn’t have to mean ordering the same combination every time. Many chains offer plenty of ways to customize a familiar menu item, add flavor, or build a more satisfying meal from what’s already available. The key is knowing which options are currently offered and which customizations are worth paying a little extra for.

McDonald’s McChicken

The McChicken already comes with shredded lettuce and mayonnaise, so there’s no need to ask for shredded lettuce instead of whole leaves—the standard sandwich uses shredded lettuce. If you want to change the flavor, check the McDonald’s app or ask your restaurant about available sauce and topping customizations, since options can vary by location. The McChicken is also currently part of McDonald’s McValue menu, which can make it a budget-friendly choice when you’re looking for a smaller meal or snack.

Pro tip: Check the McDonald’s app before ordering to see the customization options and current deals available at your location.

Taco Bell Crunchwrap Supreme

The Crunchwrap Supreme is particularly easy to customize. Taco Bell currently lets customers add ingredients such as seasoned rice, beans, black beans, potatoes, chicken, or steak, although these additions generally come with an extra charge. You can also choose the Grilled option, which is designed to give the folded tortilla a crispier finish.

Pro tip: If you want a more substantial Crunchwrap without changing the entire sandwich, adding beans or seasoned rice can make it more filling.

Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich

Chick-fil-A makes its chicken sandwich easy to customize with additional toppings and sauces. The restaurant currently highlights options such as Pepper Jack cheese, bacon, extra pickles, and different sauces, and its own customization guide specifically recommends Pepper Jack with Zesty Buffalo Sauce for a spicy variation.

Pro tip: If you like a little heat, try Pepper Jack cheese with Zesty Buffalo Sauce. For a sweeter combination, Chick-fil-A also suggests combining honey with Sweet & Spicy Sriracha.

Wendy’s Baked Potato

Wendy’s baked potato remains one of its more customizable side options. The current menu includes a plain baked potato as well as versions topped with sour cream and chives, cheese, bacon and cheese, or chili and cheese. The Chili & Cheese Baked Potato comes with Wendy’s chili, cheese sauce, and shredded cheddar, so you can order a substantial potato without having to build it yourself.

Pro tip: Compare the specialty baked potatoes with the plain version before ordering. If you already have a topping in mind, starting with the plain potato may give you more control over what goes on it.

Subway Footlong Sandwich

Subway is built around customization, so you can adjust your sandwich to suit your preferences. Current menu options include multiple breads, cheeses, vegetables, and sauces, and sandwiches can be toasted before the vegetables and sauces are added. You can also choose extras such as bacon, avocado, or additional protein, though these generally cost more.

Pro tip: If you like crisp vegetables, have the bread toasted first and add your cold toppings afterward. You can also mix sauces to create a flavor combination that’s different from the standard menu sandwiches.

Starbucks Breakfast Sandwich

Starbucks’ breakfast menu has changed over time, so some older customization suggestions no longer apply universally. The current menu includes several breakfast sandwiches along with Avocado Spread as a separate menu item, and availability can vary by café. Rather than assuming a particular sauce or spread can be added to a sandwich, check the Starbucks app or ask your barista what customizations are available at your location.

Pro tip: If you’re trying to change the flavor of your breakfast, consider ordering Avocado Spread separately when available. Starbucks’ current spread contains avocado, lime, sea salt, onion, garlic, and jalapeño, giving a breakfast sandwich a fresh, savory addition.

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