weight watchers chicken

 

Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken Packets
Weight Watchers–Friendly | Serves 4

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs total)

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

• 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)

• 2 medium lemons, thinly sliced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra brightness)

• 1½ teaspoons salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• Heavy‑duty aluminum foil

Directions

1. Prepare the foil – Tear off 4 large sheets of heavy‑duty foil, each about 12–14 inches long. Lightly crimp the edges to form shallow “trays” so juices stay inside when folded.

2. Season the chicken – Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides evenly with salt and pepper. If using garlic powder instead of fresh garlic, sprinkle it over the chicken now.

3. Build the packets – Place one seasoned chicken breast in the center of each foil sheet. Top each with 1 tablespoon butter (cut into small pieces for even melting). If using fresh garlic, divide it evenly over the chicken. Lay 2–3 lemon slices over each breast. Drizzle with about 1 teaspoon lemon juice per packet if desired.

4. Seal the packets – Bring the long sides of the foil up and together over the chicken, fold them down tightly, then fold in the short ends to seal completely. Ensure each packet is well sealed to trap steam and juices.

5. Arrange in slow cooker – Place the foil packets seam‑side up in the slow cooker. They can overlap or lean against each other as long as each remains sealed. Cover with the lid.

6. Cook – Cook on LOW for 3½ to 4½ hours, until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Cooking time varies depending on chicken thickness and slow cooker model. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.

7. Rest & open carefully – Turn off the slow cooker and let packets rest for about 5 minutes. Use tongs to transfer each packet to a plate or baking sheet. Open slowly and away from your face—the steam is very hot.

8. Serve – Spoon the buttery lemon juices from each packet over the chicken. Garnish with the cooked lemon slices (or fresh slices, if desired). Serve directly in the open packets for easy cleanup, or transfer to plates.

Weight Watchers Notes

• Points – This recipe is naturally low in points. Chicken breast is zero points; butter adds about 3–4 SmartPoints per serving (depending on your plan). Using a light butter substitute can reduce points further.

• Zero‑point additions – Add fresh spinach, sliced bell peppers, or zucchini to each packet for extra volume without added points.

Tips & Variations

• No slow cooker? – Bake sealed packets on a baking sheet at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F.

• Make it dairy‑free – Substitute butter with olive oil or a plant‑based butter.

• Herb boost – Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme to each packet.

• Meal prep – Assemble packets ahead of time and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.