Do you want something delicious and crunchy without sacrificing your Weight Watchers objectives? Weight Watchers Chicken Sticks are the perfect choice. They are the ideal snack, lunchbox addition, or quick meal because they are flavorful and packed with lean protein. These are baked to golden perfection and use clever ingredients to keep the points low, unlike deep-fried alternatives. Whether you’re feeding your family or preparing meals for the coming week. These chicken sticks are a tasty and guilt-free choice. Weight Watchers Chicken Sticks are a healthy take on a beloved comfort food that’s easy to prepare and enjoyable to consume.
STATS
- Calories: 150 kcal/serve
- Time for prep: 15 minutes
- Cook time: Twenty mins
- Time(total): Thirty-five mins
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Main, Snack
- Diet: Weight Watchers Friendly, Low-fat
- Servings: 4
- Serving size: 2/3 chicken sticks
EQUIPMENT:
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Shallow bowls/plates for dredging
INGREDIENTS
- One pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Half cup plain, nonfat Greek yogurt
- One teaspoon Dijon mustard
- One teaspoon garlic powder
- Half teaspoon paprika
- Half a teaspoon of salt
- Quarter teaspoon black pepper
- One cup of whole wheat breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
INGREDIENT NOTES
Chicken:
- Use the boneless chicken, skinless chicken breasts, and cut them into long pieces. In the air fryer or oven, thinner strips cook more quickly and crisp up faster.
Greek Yogurt:
- A reduced-fat, protein-rich alternative to mayo or eggs is Greek yogurt. It helps the coating adhere and keeps the chicken moist.
Dijon mustard:
- Enhances flavor and adds a tangy kick lacking additional fat/calories
Breadcrumbs:
- Whole wheat breadcrumbs help keep points down while providing crunch and fiber. If you want a lighter texture and crisper, then you may try panko.
Seasonings:
- Without the need for thick sauces or additional ingredients, spiced garlic, paprika, salt, and chili enhance the taste.
INSTRUCTIONS
Prep the chicken:
- To start, cut the chicken breasts into half-inch wide sticks.
- Now start cooking to ensure they cook evenly, try to keep them regular.
- To improve coating, use a paper towel to pat them dry.
Make the coating:
- In a large mixing bowl, mix the Dijon mustard and Greek yogurt.
- Add a bit of pepper, salt, powdered garlic, and paprika.
- Stir until it becomes a thick, peppered paste.
Dredge the chicken:
- Put the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish of their own.
- Coat each chicken strip completely by dipping it into the yogurt mixture, then coat it well by rolling it in the breadcrumbs.
- Do this with every piece.
Bake the chicken:
- Set the oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius.
- Gently mist a baking sheet with cooking spray after lining it with cardboard or parchment paper.
- Without touching, arrange the chicken sticks in a single layer.
- Lightly brush the tops with oil.
- Now, Bake until golden brown and cooked through, about eighteen to twenty minutes, turning halfway through internal temperature should be 165°F/74°C.
- Your Weight Watchers Chicken Sticks are ready to serve!
TIPS:
- Before coating, lightly toast the crumbs of bread in a skillet for added crunch.
- For added taste, add 1 tablespoon of cheese to the breadcrumb mixture, adjusting the points if necessary.
- For a crispier texture and a quicker cooking time, use an air fryer (see method below).
- For the sake of keeping the chicken juicy on the inside, avoid overcooking it.
- Great for cooking double the amount & refrigerate the leftover.
STORAGE INFORMATION
FRIDGE
- Pack leftovers in a container(sealed). Refrigerate them for approximately three days. To keep it crisp, rewarm using oven/air fryer.
FREEZER
- Transfer cooked chicken sticks to a zip-top bag after freezing them on a tray. They have a two-month expiration date. straight up from the freezer, reheat in an air fryer or oven set to 375°F until hot and delicious.
FAQ’S
Is it okay to exchange chicken thighs for breasts?
- Actually! Though slightly better in points, boneless, skinless thighs are effective and can be considerably juicier. Cut away any extra fat and modify your WW tracking suitably.
Can I substitute oats or shredded cereal for the breadcrumbs?
- Of course. For a different texture, try using quick oats or crushed popcorn. Just make sure they aren’t sweetened and look up the brand’s WW points.
Can I use an air fryer instead of an oven to cook the chicken sticks?
- Of course! One excellent method for achieving a crispy texture while using less oil is air frying. Simply heat your air fryer to 375°F and cook the chicken sticks for 10 to 12 minutes in a single layer, turning them over halfway through.
Which types of dips are acceptable to Weight Watchers?
- An excellent zero- or low-point dip is made with low-fat Greek yogurt combined with herbs, mustard, or a little lemon juice. In a responsible manner, you can also use light ranch, salsa, or sugar-free BBQ sauce.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Calories: 150 kcal
Carbs: 7g
Total Carbs: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 3g
Sodium: 240mg
Iron: 1.1mg
Calcium: 35mg
Vitamin A: 80 IU
Potassium: 360mg
Serving Size: 2 to 3 chicken sticks
Servings per Recipe: 4