2-Point Pesto Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced, skinless) – 0 points
  • 2 tbsp light mayo or Greek yogurt – 1 point
  • 2 tbsp prepared pesto sauce (light or reduced-fat if possible) – 2 points
  • 1 cup arugula or baby spinach – 0 points
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice – 0 points
  • Salt and pepper, to taste – 0 points

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated – 1 point (optional)
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved – 0 points
  • Cucumber slices – 0 points
  • Red onion slices – 0 points

Instructions:

  1. Cook and shred the chicken:
    • Use pre-cooked shredded chicken breast or cook and shred your own. Let it cool slightly.
  2. Make the pesto mixture:
    • In a small bowl, mix the light mayo (or Greek yogurt), pesto sauce, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Combine the chicken and pesto:
    • In a large bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the pesto mixture until fully coated.
  4. Add vegetables:
    • Mix in the arugula or baby spinach and optional tomatoes, cucumbers, or red onion for added texture and freshness.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve chilled or at room temperature. This salad can be enjoyed on its own, over greens, or stuffed in a low-point wrap for an easy meal.

Weight Watchers Points Breakdown:

  • Chicken breast (2 cups) – 0 points
  • Light mayo (2 tbsp) – 1 point
  • Pesto sauce (2 tbsp) – 2 points
  • Total: 3 points for the entire recipe (Serves 2)

Per serving (half the recipe): 2 points

Tips:

  • Bulk it up with greens: Serve the salad over a bed of greens for added volume without adding points.
  • Use Greek yogurt: If you prefer a tangy flavor, Greek yogurt can be substituted for light mayo, which keeps the points the same.
  • Make ahead: This salad is great for meal prep and keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Benefits:

  • High in protein: Chicken breast provides a lean, protein-packed base.
  • Healthy fats: Pesto adds flavor and healthy fats without making the dish heavy.
  • Low-calorie: This version is light and keeps the Weight Watchers points low, making it perfect for a healthy meal.

Enjoy this light, flavorful, and low-point Pesto Chicken Salad that’s perfect for Weight Watchers!