Weight Watchers-Friendly Greek Chicken Burgers
Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken (97% lean, 3% fat) – 12 points
  • 1/2 cup red bell peppers, chopped – 0 points
  • 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese – 4 points
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped – 0 points
  • 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs – 3 points
  • Salt and pepper to taste – 0 points
  • Optional: Non-stick spray for grilling or cooking

Total points for the entire recipe: 19 points
Yields: 4 large burgers
Points per burger: 5 points

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the mixture:
    • In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, red peppers, feta cheese, spinach, and panko crumbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    • Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated, but avoid overmixing to prevent the burgers from becoming tough.
  2. Shape the patties:
    • Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties. You can make them smaller if you prefer sliders or mini burgers, but be sure to adjust the points accordingly.
  3. Cook the burgers:
    • Preheat a grill or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Spray lightly with non-stick spray if needed.
    • Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), and the burgers are golden brown.
  4. Serve:
    • These burgers are delicious served on whole wheat buns (adjust points accordingly), or as a lettuce wrap for zero-point bread alternatives.
    • Add any zero-point toppings, like sliced tomatoes, cucumber, or red onion.

Nutritional Information (per burger):

  • Calories: ~180
  • Protein: ~25g
  • Carbs: ~8g
  • Fat: ~7g
  • Points per burger: 5 points

Tips:

  • Lean chicken: Using 97/3 ground chicken helps keep the points lower, while still being moist enough to hold together in the burger.
  • Panko crumbs: Panko adds a light texture to the burgers, but you could reduce or substitute with almond flour to lower the points if necessary.
  • Feta cheese: Feta adds a tangy, savory flavor, so a little goes a long way. You could reduce the amount to bring down the points further if needed.
  • Grill or pan-fry: For a smoky flavor, grill the burgers. For convenience, you can pan-fry them in a non-stick skillet with minimal oil spray.
  • Toppings: Stick with zero-point toppings like fresh veggies to keep the points low. You can also use fat-free Greek yogurt as a sauce to add creaminess without extra points.

Benefits:

  • High in Protein: The lean ground chicken and feta cheese make this burger a high-protein, filling meal.
  • Low in Points: At just 5 points per burger, this is an excellent meal that fits well into your Weight Watchers plan.
  • Nutritious Ingredients: With spinach and red bell peppers, you’re adding extra vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants to the meal.

Conclusion:

These Greek Chicken Burgers are a flavorful, low-point option that’s perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner. They are easy to prepare, packed with lean protein, and full of Mediterranean-inspired flavors thanks to the spinach, red peppers, and feta cheese. Serve them with a side of veggies or a simple salad to complete a well-rounded, Weight Watchers-friendly meal!