This recipe for Weight Watchers Chicken Bacon Ranch Potatoes is a delicious, guilt-free meal that combines tender chicken, crispy potatoes, smoky bacon, and creamy ranch flavors. It’s a wholesome, balanced dish perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. This recipe delivers all the comfort of a loaded potato dish with a healthier twist, perfect for those following a Weight Watchers plan. Let’s dive into a detailed breakdown of the recipe, its nutritional information, and the preparation steps.
Ingredients
To serve 4, you’ll need:
For the Potatoes:
- 2 medium Russet potatoes (about 1 pound), diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp olive oil
For the Toppings:
- 4 slices center-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp low-fat milk (to thin the Greek yogurt)
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional)
Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the diced potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the potatoes are evenly coated.
- Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. The potatoes should be golden and crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- While the potatoes are roasting, cook the center-cut bacon in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook until crispy, then remove and place on a paper towel to drain excess fat. Crumble the bacon once cooled.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Season the diced chicken with ranch seasoning.
- Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt with low-fat milk to achieve a drizzling consistency. Add a pinch of ranch seasoning to enhance the flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
- Transfer the roasted potatoes to an oven-safe dish. Layer the cooked chicken on top of the potatoes, followed by the crumbled bacon.
- Sprinkle the dish with shredded cheddar cheese. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Drizzle the Greek yogurt sauce over the dish. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, bright touch.
- Serve warm and enjoy the blend of creamy, smoky, and savory flavors.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 430mg
Weight Watchers SmartPoints
This recipe is approximately 5 SmartPoints per serving (calculated using reduced-fat cheese, nonfat Greek yogurt, and center-cut bacon). Use your WW app for precise tracking based on the specific brands and products you use.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Use the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they roast well and achieve a crispy exterior. If you prefer a creamier texture, Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative.
- Double Batch for Meal Prep: This recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make extra and enjoy it as a ready-to-eat meal.
- Healthier Substitutions: You can substitute turkey bacon for center-cut bacon to reduce fat content.
- Customize Your Ranch Seasoning: Make your own by combining dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This way, you control the sodium content.
- Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding roasted broccoli or bell peppers to the mix.
Why This Recipe is Weight Watchers Friendly
This recipe balances the comfort of indulgent flavors with mindful portioning and healthier ingredients.
- Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Chicken is a lean source of protein, keeping you full.
- Reduced-fat cheese and Greek yogurt mimic the richness of sour cream without the added calories and fat.
Conclusion
Weight Watchers Chicken Bacon Ranch Potatoes is a satisfying dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s quick to prepare, customizable to your tastes, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty yet healthy meal. Whether you’re new to the Weight Watchers program or a seasoned member, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!