Healthy & Easy Weight Watchers Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Recipe - Tender, Juicy, and Light
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 5–6 ounces each, evenly sized)
- ½ cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt (or low-fat if you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons light mayonnaise (adds classic flavor with fewer calories)
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (finely grated so it blends well)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat
- Optional garnish: Chopped fresh parsley or chives, lemon wedges
- Olive oil spray (for the baking dish)
Instructions
- Prep the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Make the topping: In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, light mayo, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If one end is much thicker, pound gently to even thickness (about 3/4 to 1 inch) so they cook evenly.
- Season lightly: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Coat the chicken: Arrange the breasts in the baking dish. Spread the yogurt-Parmesan mixture evenly over the tops, covering from edge to edge.
- Bake: Bake for 22–28 minutes, depending on thickness, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The topping should look set and lightly golden at the edges.
- Optional broil: For more color, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely.
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley or chives and a squeeze of lemon if you like.