Think it’s impossible to get a full meal for under $13 these days? With rising prices, those bargains may not seem possible anymore, but they are.
Across America, familiar names have some hearty and affordable combos up their sleeves. This story highlights 10 national brands that deliver satisfying meals without breaking the bank.
You might know some already, and others may surprise you. Over the next slides, you’ll discover where to satisfy your cravings fast. This is where and how to grab a full meal deal for under $13 near you.
1. McDonald’s Value Menu Strategy
McDonald’s remains a value leader with its Mix‑and‑Match menu. For around $5, you can get two full‑size entrées like a McChicken and a McDouble.
Add a small fry ($2.23) and a drink, and your full meal lands under $13 comfortably. The popular buy‑one‑add‑one‑for‑$1 deals stretch your dollar without sacrificing portion size.
Through their app, you can often find additional coupons and custom meal bundles, so keep an eye out for promo updates.
2. Taco Bell Luxe Value Boxes
Taco Bell offers Luxe Cravings Boxes in $5, $7, and $9 tiers that include a mix of burrito, taco, side, and drink. Even their $7 and $9 boxes stay under $13, making them solid full‑meal options.
Plus, Taco Bell’s value menu still delivers individual items for under $2, ideal for mix‑and‑match combos. Loyalty‑member-exclusive meal bundles keep the savings coming without cutting on flavor.
3. Wendy’s $5 Biggie Bag Deal
Wendy’s sells full meals for $5 via its Biggie Bag: includes your choice of sandwich (crispy chicken or junior cheeseburger), four nuggets, fries, and a drink.
You’ll still be well under $13, and you can add a Frosty for a small upcharge. The bag gives a satisfying mix of protein, carbs, and drink with no surprises at checkout. It’s straightforward and consistently available through app and in‑restaurant.
4. Burger King Value Offers
Burger King counters with frequent $5–$7 combo deals. The $7 Trio includes a BK Jr., bacon cheeseburger or chicken sandwich, fries, and a drink.
BOGO fish sandwich offers and app deals bring costs down even lower. These combos give variety, letting you pick out burgers and chicken items while keeping the total under $13. Watch the app for rotating value promos.
5. Del Taco’s Budget Burritos & Tacos
Del Taco consistently makes “best fast food” lists and delivers full meal combos under $10. A basic combo, two tacos, fries, and a drink, runs around $9.39.
Loaded burritos, nachos, and quesadillas remain budget‑friendly. It’s a less‑talked‑about but reliable value chain with breakfast and lunch/dinner options still under $13.
6. KFC’s Chicken Combo Choices
KFC offers several combos under $13. The five‑piece bucket combo is $15 ($7.50 per person) with sides and a drink.
Alternatively, three‑piece combos (meat + side + drink) are around $9. Bowls and family meal deals give portion flexibility while staying budget‑smart.
7. Popeyes $9 Chicken Combo
Popeyes’ three‑piece chicken combo (dark or light meat, side, drink) costs about $9. The spicy Louisiana‑style flavor and regular promotions on sandwiches and dippers keep the total meal cost under $13. Their app also offers occasional bundle discounts.
8. Little Caesars Lunch Combo
At Little Caesars, a $6.49 lunch combo includes four pieces of Detroit‑style pizza and a 20‑oz soda. Add another drink or side, and you stay under $13.
For group meals, their $8 per person Crazy Crust combo (pizza, bread, soda) keeps you well within budget.
9. Domino’s $7.99 Large Pizza Deal
Domino’s regularly offers large pizzas for $7.99 plus $4.98 for two drinks, totaling $12.97. That averages ~$6.50 per person (for two).
Add dipping sauces or bread twists without exceeding $13. Deals change weekly, but combos often stay under your limit.
10. Chili’s ‘3 for Me’ for $11
Chili’s full‑service brand also makes the list: its “3 for Me” combo (starter, entrée, drink) costs $11. This is noteworthy because it’s full table‑service, not fast food. The quality is higher, and portions are generous enough to satisfy a single diner for less.
Bonus: Olive Garden Kids’ Meal Hack
At Olive Garden, ordering a kid’s meal priced at $6.99 gets you an entrée, drink and two breadsticks. You can add extra breadsticks or sides for just a few dollars more, keeping the total under $13, even if you’re an adult looking for a lighter but complete meal.
Synthesis & Meal Tips
Across these ten chains, you’ll find full meals under $13 using smart combos and app deals. Fast‑food value menus, mid‑range chains like Chili’s and Olive Garden, and pizza combo specials all fit your goal.
Best bet: use apps for loyalty offers, check for BOGO or bundle promos, and consider weekday lunch or kids‑menus to maximize value.
Final Takeaway
Full meals under $13 still exist in 2025. Stick with value menus, combo boxes, smaller chain hacks, and weekday specials.
Familiar names, McDonald’s, Taco Bell, Wendy’s, Burger King, and Del Taco, lead the way. KFC, Popeyes, Little Caesars, Domino’s, Chili’s, and Olive Garden also deliver affordable options.
With simple planning, you can enjoy satisfying meals without overspending. Stay alert for promotions and you won’t stop eating well for less than $13.