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Treat yourself to these Hasselback Chicken Breasts in cream sauce. The chicken breasts are overflowing with creamy spinach, and sits in a sauce bursting with flavor. What makes them even more irresistible? They’re lower in calories, making them a perfect choice for those wanting all the flavor of cheese stuffed chicken breasts in a thick creamy sauce. Whether you’re watching your weight or simply craving something delicious, this dish is on point. Perfect for us Weight Watchers peeps.
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Why is Hasselback Chicken with Creamy Spinach Sauce a Healthy Choice?
- Chicken Breasts:
- Lean protein source, helps build and repair muscle.
- Low in fat, making it a great choice for weight management.
- Rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and selenium.
- Spinach:
- Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and iron.
- Low in calories and carbohydrates, making it ideal for weight watchers.
- High in antioxidants, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Low-Fat Cream Cheese:
- Lower in fat and calories compared to regular cream cheese.
- Provides protein and calcium for bone health.
- Adds creamy texture and flavor without the extra calories.
- Parmesan Cheese:
- Adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish with a smaller quantity.
- High in protein and calcium, important for bone health.
- A little goes a long way, so you can enjoy the taste without overdoing it on calories.
- Fat-Free Half and Half:
- Lower in calories and fat compared to heavy cream.
- Provides creaminess without the added saturated fat.
- Still offers a satisfying texture to the sauce while keeping the dish lighter.
Why The Ingredients are Healthy:
- Lean protein from chicken helps with muscle growth and repair.
- Spinach is a nutrient powerhouse, offering vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Low-fat cream cheese and fat-free half and half reduce the calorie and fat content of the dish without sacrificing creaminess.
- Parmesan cheese adds flavor and richness with less quantity, keeping the calorie count in check.
- Overall, this recipe provides a balanced mix of nutrients while keeping calories under control, making it a smart choice for those focusing on their health and weight.
RELATED: Lightened Up Slow Cooker Chicken Piccata
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Reduced Fat Grated Parmesan Cheese
Hasselback Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Cream Cheese | Healthy Dinner | Easy Healthy Meals
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
- Salt/Pepper to Taste
For the Spinach Cheese Stuffing
- 4 oz Low Fat Cream Cheese
- 1/2 Cup Kraft Fat Free Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 2 Tablespoons Grated Reduced Fat Parmesan Cheese
- 3 Cloves Garlic, Minced
- 5 oz Frozen Chopped Spinach, thawed and excess water squeezed out
For the Creamy Sauce
- 1 Cup Fat Free Half and Half
- 2 Tbl Cornstarch
- 1 oz Low Fat Cream Cheese
- 1/4 Cup Reduced Fat Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Salt/Pepper to Taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened low-fat cream cheese, fat free mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and chopped spinach. Mix until well combined. Season with salt to taste.
- Prepare the chicken breasts by making deep cuts across each breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. Season each breast with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the creamy spinach filling, pressing gently to pack it in.
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish that has been lightly coated with cooking spray.
- In a small saucepan, whisk together the fat-free half and half and cornstarch until smooth.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the low-fat cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour a portion of the creamy sauce over the stuffed chicken breasts before baking, ensuring each breast is evenly coated.
- Bake the stuffed chicken breasts in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Once baked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve the stuffed chicken breasts with any remaining sauce spooned over the top, if desired.
- This makes 4 servings. Each serving is 7 WW Points. Enjoy!
Healthy Chicken Dinner Recipes for Any Diet
- Low-carb diet: This recipe fits well into a low-carb diet due to its focus on lean protein (chicken breasts) and low-carb ingredients like spinach and low-fat dairy products. It offers a satisfying meal while keeping carbohydrate intake in check.
- Keto diet: With its emphasis on high-fat, low-carb foods, this recipe can be incorporated into a keto diet. The chicken breasts and spinach provide protein and essential nutrients, while the creamy sauce, made with low-fat dairy options, adds richness without excess carbohydrates.
- Mediterranean diet: While not traditionally associated with the Mediterranean diet, this recipe can be adjusted to fit the principles of this diet by using lean chicken breasts, plenty of spinach, and incorporating low-fat dairy products. It offers a flavorful and satisfying meal with a focus on whole foods.
- Weight Watchers program: This recipe is suitable for the Weight Watchers program as it features lean protein, plenty of vegetables, and incorporates lower-fat dairy options. By keeping track of portion sizes and using ingredients with lower Points values, it can fit well within the framework of the program.
- Balanced diet: Regardless of specific diet plans, this recipe can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. It provides a mix of lean protein, vegetables, and dairy, offering a nutrient-rich meal option that can be included in a variety of eating patterns.
Questions about this Hasselback Chicken Recipe?
- Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
- Yes, fresh spinach can be used. Ensure it’s thoroughly washed and dried before chopping and incorporating it into the recipe.
- Is the creamy sauce high in calories?
- The creamy sauce in this recipe is made with lower-fat dairy options and is relatively lower in calories compared to traditional cream-based sauces.
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that all ingredients, including the seasonings and sauces, are certified gluten-free.
- Can I substitute the low-fat dairy ingredients with vegan alternatives?
- Yes, you can substitute low-fat dairy ingredients with vegan alternatives such as dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based milk to make a vegan-friendly version of this dish.
- What sides would pair well with this dish?
- Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts and the creamy sauce ahead of time, then assemble and bake them when ready to serve.
- Are there any alternatives to chicken breasts I can use?
- If desired, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or turkey breast as alternatives to chicken breasts in this recipe.
- Can leftovers be stored and reheated?
- Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheated in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
This chicken recipe is a versatile and nutritious option that caters to various dietary preferences. With its flavorful combination of tender chicken, creamy spinach filling, and light sauce, it promises a satisfying meal without any fuss. In a nutshell, this chicken recipe is a tasty and healthy choice that’s easy to enjoy without any guilt. So dig in and enjoy the deliciousness.
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