Are you looking for delicious and healthy dinner ideas that won't derail your Weight Watchers journey? Look no further! This slow cooker lemon herb chicken recipe is not only incredibly flavorful but also a breeze to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal hands-on time, resulting in a juicy, tender chicken breast that's packed with fresh herbs and bright lemon. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it one of the best recipes for healthy eating without sacrificing taste. This recipe easily fits into many Weight Watchers plans; always check your personal plan for the most accurate points.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, and oregano are great choices!), chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Layer the Flavors: Arrange the lemon slices and minced garlic evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle the chopped fresh herbs on top.
- Add Moisture: Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and herbs. Pour in the chicken broth.
- Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. You can serve it as is, or mix it back into the cooking liquid for extra moisture and flavor. This delicious chicken is perfect served over rice, quinoa, or with a side of roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips for Weight Watchers Success:
- Use Bone-in Chicken: For extra flavor and a slightly higher protein content, consider using bone-in, skinless chicken thighs. Just increase the cooking time accordingly.
- Boost the Veggies: Add chopped vegetables like onions, carrots, or bell peppers to the slow cooker for a complete and more nutritious meal.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor. A dash of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Make it a Complete Meal: Serve this chicken over a bed of brown rice or quinoa for a more filling and satisfying meal. A simple green salad is also a perfect accompaniment.
Variations:
- Mediterranean Twist: Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Chicken: Stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream at the end of cooking for a creamy texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Nutritional information will vary slightly based on the exact ingredients and portion size.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This slow cooker lemon herb chicken recipe is a simple, healthy, and satisfying option for your next meal. It's one of the easiest and best recipes for those watching their weight and looking for quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!