Why Fakeaways Are the Smart Way to Eat Healthier
Let’s face it — most of us crave a cheeky Nando’s, a Greggs bake, or a Wagamama katsu more often than we’d like to admit. But when you’re trying to eat well, the takeaway habit can be hard to justify. That’s where fakeaways come in — homemade versions of your favourite restaurant dishes that deliver the same comfort and taste, just with far fewer calories and far less cost.
On average, a single UK takeaway meal clocks in at over 1,200 calories, often with added sugars, salt, and oils that don’t do your body (or your wallet) any favours. Cooking those same dishes at home not only lets you control the ingredients, but it also keeps each meal between 350–500 calories while still tasting just as indulgent.
From spicy Nando’s-style chicken to Greggs-inspired bakes and LEON’s famous falafel wraps, these lighter, copycat recipes are proof that eating healthy doesn’t mean giving up the food you love. You’ll save money, eat cleaner, and feel better — all while getting that satisfying fakeaway fix.
1. Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken Bowl
There’s a reason Nando’s is the UK’s go-to fakeaway flavour — it’s spicy, satisfying, and endlessly customisable. The homemade version is just as bold, but far leaner.
Grill or air-fry a chicken breast marinated in peri-peri spice, lemon juice, and olive oil. Serve with wholegrain rice, chopped peppers, and a spoonful of corn salsa for colour and crunch. Each bowl packs around 450 calories and 40g of protein — ideal for gym-goers or anyone trying to up their protein intake.
Try it: Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken Bowl Recipe →
2. Greggs Style Steak Bake
A homemade Greggs Steak Bake – tender beef in rich gravy wrapped in golden puff pastry. The ultimate savoury fakeaway classic that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a cosy night in.
Use lean stewing beef or leftover roast beef for an easy, budget-friendly filling. Simmer with onions, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, and thickened stock until rich and glossy. Wrap in puff pastry, brush with egg wash, and bake until beautifully golden. Serve with chips, mash, or garden peas for that true Greggs-style comfort at home.
Try it: Greggs Style Steak Bake Recipe →
3. Wagamama Veggie Noodle Stir-Fry
Quick, colourful, and endlessly flexible, this dish brings all the energy of Wagamama’s wok dishes — minus the heavy sauce. Stir-fry a mix of courgette, peppers, spring onions, and carrots with wholewheat noodles and a sauce of soy, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
In under 15 minutes, you’ll have a nutrient-rich meal that’s light yet filling, coming in around 380 calories per bowl. Add tofu, prawns, or leftover chicken for extra protein.
4. McDonald’s Egg McMuffin Copycat
The classic McMuffin is the ultimate on-the-go breakfast, but making it yourself takes less than 10 minutes — and halves the calories.
Use a wholegrain English muffin, a poached or air-fried egg, a slice of lean back bacon, and a touch of light cheese. You can meal-prep a few ahead of time, wrap them in foil, and reheat for busy mornings. Each sandwich provides roughly 20g of protein and keeps you full for hours — no mid-morning snacks needed.
Try it: Mcdonalds Sausage and Egg Mcmuffin →
5. Honest Burger (Light Version)
Honest Burgers is known for its juicy patties and simple, quality ingredients — and now you can make their signature burger at home in a healthier way. This light copycat version keeps all the flavour but trims the calories with lean beef mince and a lighter brioche bun.
Shape your patties with 5% lean beef, season simply with salt and pepper, and pan-sear until perfectly caramelised. Layer with red onion relish, crisp lettuce, and a slice of reduced-fat cheddar for that authentic Honest Burgers taste — all coming in at around 480 calories per burger.
Try it: Honest Burger Recipe →
6. KFC-Style Baked Chicken
Forget the deep fryer — this healthier take on KFC’s crispy chicken uses the oven or air fryer for maximum crunch and minimum oil.
Coat boneless chicken pieces in panko breadcrumbs mixed with paprika, garlic powder, and herbs, then lightly mist with spray oil. Bake or air fry until golden and crunchy. Serve with homemade slaw and sweetcorn for a balanced plate that satisfies your fast-food craving without the aftermath.
A full portion comes in under 420 calories with 35g of protein — lean, tasty, and guilt-free.
Try it: KFC Original Recipe Chicken →
7. Costa Chicken Super Plate
Pret and Costa’s wholesome lunch plates are some of the most searched dishes in the UK, and this homemade version is spot on.
Roast or grill chicken breast, pair it with brown rice, avocado, spinach, and a simple lemon-herb dressing. It’s a refreshing, balanced meal that’s ideal for post-gym recovery or a light dinner. Add roasted chickpeas or feta for an extra layer of texture.
Try it: Pret Chicken Super Plate →
Meal Prep Tips for a Healthier Week
A healthy diet doesn’t happen by accident — it’s built on a bit of planning and prep. Here’s how to make these fakeaways fit your weekly routine:
- •Double up: Batch cook and store extra portions in airtight containers for the next day’s lunch.
- •Balance macros: Aim for one-third protein, one-third carbs, and one-third vegetables at every meal.
- •Freeze smart: Label containers by date and calories, and use colour-coded lids (red for freezer, blue for fridge — like BiteBuddy does!).
- •Season creatively: Don’t rely on salt; use herbs, citrus, and light sauces like Subway Southwest Sauce or homemade Peri-Peri Mayo to keep things exciting.
- •Stay hydrated: Many fakeaway cravings are actually thirst — keep a reusable bottle nearby.
