Tasty Weight Watchers Chicken Recipes for Dinner
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Tasty Weight Watchers Chicken Recipes
Are you looking for delicious and healthy dinner ideas that won’t compromise your dietary goals? You’re in the right place! Healthy eating has never been easier with the right low-calorie chicken dishes that are both nutritious and flavorful.
Discover the joy of cooking weight watchers chicken recipes that are not only good for you but also tantalize your taste buds. With a variety of low-calorie chicken dishes to choose from, you’ll never be stuck for a dinner idea again.
Key Takeaways
- Explore a range of tasty and healthy Weight Watchers chicken recipes.
- Learn about the nutritional benefits of different chicken dishes.
- Understand how to cook low-calorie chicken meals effectively.
- Discover the point values associated with various Weight Watchers recipes.
- Get tips on incorporating these recipes into your daily meal plan.
Why Chicken is Perfect for Your Weight Watchers Journey
As you navigate your Weight Watchers journey, incorporating chicken into your meal plan can be highly beneficial. Chicken is not only a versatile protein, but it’s also packed with nutrients that support weight loss.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken for Weight Loss
Chicken is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it an ideal choice for those looking to lose weight. It’s rich in niacin, vitamin B6, and selenium, which are essential for metabolism and overall health. A 3-ounce serving of cooked chicken breast contains about 26 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and filling option for meals.
Nutrient | Amount per 3 oz serving | % Daily Value |
---|---|---|
Protein | 26 grams | 52% |
Niacin | 11.3 mg | 56% |
Vitamin B6 | 0.3 mg | 15% |
How Chicken Fits into the Weight Watchers Points System
The Weight Watchers points system assigns a point value to foods based on their calorie, fat, fiber, and protein content. Chicken is generally a low-point food, especially when cooked without added fats. For example, a 3-ounce serving of grilled chicken breast is approximately 3-4 SmartPoints. This makes chicken a great option for easy chicken recipes for weight loss that fit within your daily points allowance.
By incorporating chicken into your meal plan, you can enjoy ww friendly chicken recipes that are not only delicious but also low in SmartPoints. Whether you’re looking for low smartpoints chicken recipes or simply want to mix up your protein sources, chicken is a versatile and nutritious choice.
Essential Tips for Preparing Low-Point Chicken Dishes
To make the most of your Weight Watchers experience, it’s essential to know how to prepare low-point chicken dishes. By choosing the right ingredients and cooking methods, you can enjoy flavorful and healthy chicken meals that fit within your daily points allowance.
Choosing the Right Cuts of Chicken
Opting for lean cuts of chicken is crucial for keeping points low. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are an excellent choice, as they are high in protein and low in fat. You can also consider chicken tenderloins or chicken thighs without the skin for variety.
Healthy Cooking Methods to Keep Points Low
The way you cook your chicken can significantly impact its point value. Grilling, baking, and poaching are all low-fat cooking methods that help retain the chicken’s natural flavor without adding extra points. Avoid frying or using high-fat sauces to keep your meals healthy and low in points.
Flavor Boosters That Won’t Add Points
Adding flavor to your chicken dishes doesn’t have to mean adding extra points. Use herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley, and spices like cumin, paprika, or chili powder to add flavor without the extra calories. You can also try using lemon juice or vinegar to add a burst of flavor to your chicken.
Cooking Method | Points Impact | Flavor Impact |
---|---|---|
Grilling | Low | High |
Baking | Low | Medium |
Frying | High | High |
Poaching | Low | Low |
10 Best Weight Watchers Chicken Recipes for Quick Weeknight Dinners
Quick, easy, and flavorful, these Weight Watchers chicken recipes are perfect for busy weeknights. With the Weight Watchers program, you can enjoy a variety of delicious chicken dishes while keeping track of your SmartPoints.
15-Minute Lemon Garlic Chicken (3 SmartPoints)
This recipe is a game-changer for a quick dinner. Made with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, it’s not only delicious but also low in SmartPoints.
Ingredients and Instructions
You’ll need chicken breasts, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Simply marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, then grill or bake until cooked. Serve with a side of vegetables or a salad.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad to keep the SmartPoints low. You can also serve it with quinoa or brown rice for a filling meal.
Simple Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables (4 SmartPoints)
A stir-fry is a great way to use up leftover vegetables and chicken. This recipe is quick, easy, and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients and Instructions
Gather chicken breast, your favorite vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots), some oil, garlic, and soy sauce. Stir-fry the chicken and vegetables in a wok or large skillet, seasoning with soy sauce and garlic.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Serve this stir-fry over cauliflower rice or with a small portion of brown rice to keep the SmartPoints in check. Adding plenty of vegetables will not only fill you up but also keep the points low.
No-Fuss Chicken Fajitas (5 SmartPoints)
Chicken fajitas are a fun and flavorful dinner option. This recipe is easy to make and can be adjusted based on your dietary preferences.
Ingredients and Instructions
You’ll need chicken breasts, bell peppers, onions, fajita seasoning, and whole wheat tortillas. Sauté the chicken and vegetables with fajita seasoning, then serve with tortillas, salsa, and your choice of toppings.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Use whole wheat tortillas and load up on vegetables to keep this meal healthy and within your SmartPoints budget. Consider using low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt as a topping.
Comforting Baked Chicken Dishes with Low SmartPoints
Comfort food doesn’t have to derail your diet; here are some tasty baked chicken recipes with low SmartPoints. Baked chicken is a great option for a comforting dinner that’s also healthy. The following recipes are not only delicious but also adhere to the Weight Watchers points system, making them perfect for your meal plan.
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders (4 SmartPoints)
Crispy baked chicken tenders are a crowd-pleaser, and with just 4 SmartPoints, they’re a great option for a weeknight dinner. To make them, you’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and your favorite seasonings.
Ingredients and Instructions
You’ll need 1 pound of chicken tenders, 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Dip the chicken tenders in the beaten egg and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Bake for about 20 minutes or until cooked through.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Serve with a side of low-point dipping sauce, such as a homemade honey mustard made with Greek yogurt. To save points, consider baking the tenders on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper, which reduces cleanup and prevents sticking.
Cheesy Chicken Casserole Makeover (6 SmartPoints)
This cheesy chicken casserole is a comforting classic that’s been lightened up to fit within a Weight Watchers meal plan. With 6 SmartPoints per serving, it’s a satisfying dinner option.
Ingredients and Instructions
Gather 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, 1 cup low-fat shredded cheese, 1/2 cup whole wheat pasta, 1 cup mixed vegetables, and 1/4 cup low-fat cream of chicken soup. Mix all the ingredients in a baking dish and top with additional cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. To reduce points, use low-fat dairy products and whole wheat pasta.
Herb-Roasted Chicken and Vegetables (3 SmartPoints)
This herb-roasted chicken and vegetables recipe is a simple, flavorful option that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. With just 3 SmartPoints, it’s an excellent choice for those watching their points.
Ingredients and Instructions
You’ll need 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers), 2 tablespoons olive oil, and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs. Toss the chicken and vegetables with olive oil, herbs, and seasonings. Roast in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Serve hot, straight from the oven. To keep points low, use a variety of vegetables that are in season and herbs from your garden or a pot.
Recipe | SmartPoints | Cooking Time |
---|---|---|
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders | 4 | 20 minutes |
Cheesy Chicken Casserole Makeover | 6 | 35 minutes |
Herb-Roasted Chicken and Vegetables | 3 | 25-30 minutes |
Slow Cooker Weight Watchers Chicken Recipes for Effortless Dinners
Discover the convenience of slow cooker chicken recipes that fit perfectly into your Weight Watchers meal plan. These recipes are designed to make healthy eating easy and delicious, allowing you to enjoy flavorful meals with minimal preparation and cleanup.
Salsa Chicken with Black Beans
This vibrant dish is not only low in SmartPoints but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. With just 5 SmartPoints, it’s an ideal option for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients and Instructions
To make Salsa Chicken with Black Beans, you’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, canned black beans, salsa, and a blend of spices. Simply place the chicken in the slow cooker, top with the remaining ingredients, and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Shred the chicken and serve with your favorite toppings.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Serve Salsa Chicken with Black Beans over cauliflower rice or with a side of roasted vegetables to keep the SmartPoints low. Consider using low-sodium salsa and omitting any high-point toppings to save even more points.
Tuscan Chicken with Spinach
Tuscan Chicken with Spinach is a flavorful and healthy option that comes in at just 4 SmartPoints. This recipe combines chicken breasts with Tuscan seasoning, spinach, and garlic for a dish that’s both aromatic and delicious.
Ingredients and Instructions
For Tuscan Chicken with Spinach, place chicken breasts in the slow cooker with Tuscan seasoning, chicken broth, and garlic. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in fresh spinach leaves during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if desired.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Pair Tuscan Chicken with Spinach with a side salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal. Be mindful of the amount of parmesan cheese used, as it can add extra SmartPoints.
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are a crowd-pleaser, and with 7 SmartPoints, they’re still a relatively low-point option. This recipe uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts cooked in a tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients and Instructions
To make BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches, place chicken breasts in the slow cooker with your favorite BBQ sauce and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Shred the chicken and serve on a whole-grain bun with coleslaw or pickles.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
To save SmartPoints, consider using a low-point BBQ sauce and serving the pulled chicken on a smaller bun or over a salad. Adding coleslaw made with low-fat mayonnaise can also help keep the points in check.
Flavorful Grilled Chicken Options for Summer Dinners
Grilled chicken is a summer favorite, and with Weight Watchers, you can enjoy it in various flavorful ways without compromising your dietary goals. Here are some delicious and healthy grilled chicken recipes perfect for your summer dinners.
Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Skewers
Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Skewers are a delightful and healthy option for summer dinners, with only 3 SmartPoints per serving.
Ingredients and Instructions
To make Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Skewers, you will need chicken breast, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and your choice of vegetables like bell peppers and onions. Simply marinate the chicken and vegetables, then grill them to perfection.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Serve these skewers with a side of quinoa or a fresh salad to keep the meal low in SmartPoints. You can also save points by using lower-point marinades and seasoning.
Honey Lime Grilled Chicken Breasts
Honey Lime Grilled Chicken Breasts offer a sweet and tangy flavor profile, all for just 4 SmartPoints per serving. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a refreshing twist on traditional grilled chicken.
Ingredients and Instructions
For Honey Lime Grilled Chicken Breasts, you’ll need chicken breasts, honey, lime juice, and a mix of your favorite herbs. Marinate the chicken in the honey lime mixture before grilling to achieve that perfect glaze.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Pair this dish with a side of grilled vegetables or a small serving of brown rice to maintain a balanced meal. To save points, consider using a lower-point sweetener alternative to honey.
Smoky Grilled Chicken with Vegetable Kabobs
Smoky Grilled Chicken with Vegetable Kabobs is another flavorful option, with only 3 SmartPoints per serving. This recipe is great for a healthy and filling meal.
Ingredients and Instructions
To prepare Smoky Grilled Chicken with Vegetable Kabobs, you’ll need chicken breasts, a smoky seasoning blend, and a variety of vegetables like cherry tomatoes and mushrooms. Alternate chicken and vegetables on skewers and grill until cooked through.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Serve with a side salad or a small portion of whole grain bread for a satisfying meal. To reduce SmartPoints, opt for lower-point seasoning options and be mindful of the amount of oil used in the recipe.
International Weight Watchers Chicken Recipes to Spice Up Your Meal Plan
If you’re looking to spice up your Weight Watchers journey, consider trying some international chicken recipes. These dishes are not only delicious but also fit perfectly within your Weight Watchers meal plan.
Skinny Chicken Tikka Masala (6 SmartPoints)
Skinny Chicken Tikka Masala is a healthier version of the popular Indian dish, made with yogurt, spices, and tomato sauce, served over basmati rice. It’s a flavorful and satisfying meal that won’t break your diet.
Ingredients and Instructions
To make Skinny Chicken Tikka Masala, you’ll need chicken breast, low-fat yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, tomato sauce, and basmati rice. Marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices, then grill or bake until cooked. Serve with tomato sauce and basmati rice.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad to keep the meal low in points. You can also use leftover chicken in salads or wraps for a quick lunch.
Lightened-Up Chicken Enchiladas (7 SmartPoints)
Lightened-Up Chicken Enchiladas are a healthier twist on the classic Mexican dish, using low-fat cheese and whole wheat tortillas. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s both easy and delicious.
Ingredients and Instructions
For Lightened-Up Chicken Enchiladas, you’ll need shredded cooked chicken, low-fat sour cream, low-fat cheese, diced tomatoes, whole wheat tortillas, and enchilada sauce. Fill tortillas with chicken and roll them up, then cover with enchilada sauce and cheese, and bake until hot and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Serve with a side of black beans or a green salad to add fiber and nutrients. You can also use leftover chicken in soups or salads.
Greek Chicken Souvlaki Pitas (5 SmartPoints)
Greek Chicken Souvlaki Pitas are a healthy and flavorful option, made with marinated chicken, served in a whole wheat pita with tzatziki sauce and vegetables. It’s a great meal for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients and Instructions
To make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Pitas, marinate chicken breast in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, then grill until cooked. Serve in whole wheat pitas with tzatziki sauce, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad for a well-rounded meal. You can also use leftover chicken in salads or as a topping for Greek salads.
Recipe | SmartPoints | Main Ingredients |
---|---|---|
Skinny Chicken Tikka Masala | 6 | Chicken breast, low-fat yogurt, tomato sauce, basmati rice |
Lightened-Up Chicken Enchiladas | 7 | Shredded chicken, low-fat cheese, whole wheat tortillas, enchilada sauce |
Greek Chicken Souvlaki Pitas | 5 | Chicken breast, olive oil, lemon juice, whole wheat pitas, tzatziki sauce |
These international Weight Watchers chicken recipes offer a variety of flavors and cuisines to spice up your meal plan. With these recipes, you can enjoy delicious and healthy meals while staying on track with your Weight Watchers journey.
One-Pot Weight Watchers Chicken Recipes for Easy Cleanup
One-pot meals are a game-changer for Weight Watchers followers looking for easy cleanup. These recipes simplify dinner prep and reduce the number of dishes, making mealtime more efficient.
Chicken and Vegetable Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect example of a one-pot meal that’s both nourishing and low in SmartPoints. With just 2 SmartPoints per serving, it’s an ideal option for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients and Instructions
To make this soup, you’ll need chicken breast, mixed vegetables, and low-sodium chicken broth. Simply sauté the chicken and vegetables in a pot, add the broth, and simmer until the chicken is cooked through. Season with herbs and spices to taste.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Serve this soup with a side of whole-grain bread for a filling meal. To save points, use low-sodium broth and limit the amount of oil used for sautéing. You can also add beans or other protein sources to increase the nutritional value without adding many points.
Chicken and Rice Skillet Dinner
This one-pot dish is a classic comfort food with a Weight Watchers twist. At 6 SmartPoints per serving, it’s a satisfying meal that won’t derail your diet.
Ingredients and Instructions
For this recipe, you’ll need chicken breast, uncooked rice, mixed vegetables, and low-sodium chicken broth. Cook the chicken and rice in a large skillet, adding the vegetables towards the end. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or using different seasonings. To reduce points, use brown rice instead of white and limit the amount of oil used. You can also serve with a side salad for added nutrition.
Sheet Pan Chicken with Roasted Vegetables
This recipe is a great example of how one-pot meals can be versatile. At 4 SmartPoints per serving, it’s a healthy and flavorful option for dinner.
Ingredients and Instructions
To make this dish, you’ll need chicken breast, a variety of vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers), and a drizzle of olive oil. Toss the chicken and vegetables with oil and your choice of seasonings, then roast in the oven until cooked through.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. To save points, use a small amount of oil and choose low-point seasonings. You can also pair this with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a more filling meal.
Family-Friendly Weight Watchers Chicken Recipes Everyone Will Love
Looking for delicious and healthy chicken recipes that your whole family will love? You’re in the right place! Here, you’ll find a selection of tasty and nutritious Weight Watchers chicken recipes that are perfect for a family dinner. These recipes are not only low in SmartPoints, but they’re also easy to make and packed with flavor.
Healthier Chicken Parmesan
Healthier Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish made with breaded and baked chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This version is a healthier take on the original, using whole wheat breadcrumbs and baking instead of frying.
Ingredients and Instructions
To make this recipe, you’ll need 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 1 cup marinara sauce, and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Dip the chicken in the egg and then coat with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese. Bake until cooked, then top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This recipe is 6 SmartPoints per serving.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Serve with a side of whole wheat pasta or a green salad to keep the meal healthy and balanced. To save points, use a lower-point marinara sauce and reduced-fat mozzarella cheese.
Baked Chicken Taquitos
Baked Chicken Taquitos are a fun and easy meal that kids will love. These crispy, cheesy taquitos are filled with shredded chicken and baked until golden brown.
Ingredients and Instructions
You’ll need 1 pound cooked, shredded chicken, 1/2 cup shredded cheese, 1/4 cup chopped onion, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 12 corn tortillas, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Mix the chicken, cheese, onion, and cilantro, then fill the tortillas with this mixture and roll them up. Brush with olive oil and bake until crispy. This recipe is 5 SmartPoints per serving.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Serve with salsa or guacamole for dipping. To save points, use low-fat cheese and skip the sour cream or other high-point toppings.
Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a spicy and refreshing twist on traditional chicken wraps. Using lettuce leaves instead of tortillas makes this a low-carb and low-point option.
Ingredients and Instructions
You’ll need 1 pound cooked, shredded chicken, 1/4 cup buffalo sauce, 4 lettuce leaves, 1/4 cup chopped celery, and 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese. Mix the chicken and buffalo sauce, then fill the lettuce leaves with this mixture, topped with celery and blue cheese. This recipe is 3 SmartPoints per serving.
Serving Suggestions and Point-Saving Tips
Serve with carrot sticks or celery for a crunchy snack. To save points, use a lower-point buffalo sauce and reduced-fat blue cheese.
Conclusion: Enjoying Delicious Meals While Staying on Track
You now have a variety of tasty Weight Watchers chicken recipes to spice up your dinner routine. These healthy chicken recipes not only satisfy your taste buds but also support your weight loss journey. By incorporating low-calorie chicken dishes into your meal plan, you can enjoy flavorful meals while staying on track with your Weight Watchers goals.
The key to success lies in balancing flavor and nutrition. With the right cooking methods and ingredients, you can create delicious meals that are also low in SmartPoints. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting baked dish, there’s a Weight Watchers chicken recipe to suit your needs.
By making healthy choices and being mindful of your food, you can achieve your weight loss goals and maintain a healthy lifestyle. So, get cooking and enjoy the benefits of healthy, low-calorie chicken dishes that will keep you on track and satisfied.
FAQ
What are the best Weight Watchers chicken recipes for weight loss?
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Are slow cooker Weight Watchers chicken recipes a good option for busy weeknights?
Can I freeze cooked Weight Watchers chicken recipes for later use?
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