The WW 6-Point Bacon Chicken Melt: A Lighter Take on a Comfort Food Classic

Last night, as the scent of sizzling bacon filled my kitchen, I was reminded of a particular dish that holds a special place in my culinary repertoire. It’s a recipe that manages to deliver all the savory satisfaction of a classic melt without the guilt, a true testament to how smart choices can elevate everyday comfort food. This WW 6-Point Bacon Chicken Melt isn’t just a lighter version; it’s a culinary creation that proves you can indulge in deliciousness while staying true to your goals. It’s a dish I’ve returned to time and again, a reliable friend in the kitchen when cravings strike.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Yield: 2 Melts
• Dietary Type: Low-Point, High-Protein

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful melts:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 4 slices bacon (or 4 slices turkey bacon for an even lighter option)
• 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese (your choice – cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend work beautifully) or 1 cup fat-free cheese (also your choice)
• 1/2 cup chopped tomato

Equipment Needed

• Oven
• Baking dish
• Small skillet (optional, for pre-cooking bacon if desired)

Instructions

Embark on a simple yet rewarding culinary journey with these straightforward steps to craft your WW 6-Point Bacon Chicken Melts:

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This ensures a perfect, consistent cooking environment for your chicken and bacon.
2. Prepare the chicken. For each chicken breast, take two slices of bacon and carefully wrap them around the chicken breast, tucking in any loose ends. If using regular bacon, you might find it helpful to secure the ends with a toothpick, though often it holds its shape on its own.
3. Cook the bacon-wrapped chicken. In a small skillet, place the chicken breasts with the bacon. Cook until the bacon is done to your preferred crispness. This step helps to render out some of the bacon fat and begin the cooking process for the chicken, ensuring an even cook. You can also place the bacon-wrapped chicken directly into the baking dish if you prefer to skip this skillet step, though the skillet step often results in crispier bacon.
4. Transfer and bake. Place the chicken into a baking dish. Bake for 10-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). The exact time will depend on the thickness of your chicken breasts. You want to ensure the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
5. Melt the cheese. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and sprinkle generously with the shredded low-fat cheese (or fat-free cheese). Bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This short blast of heat is all it needs to achieve that irresistible gooeyness.
6. Top with freshness. Remove the melts from the oven and top with the chopped tomato. The vibrant freshness of the tomato provides a lovely contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the chicken and bacon.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Bacon Crispness: If you prefer your bacon extra crispy, consider pre-cooking it slightly in the skillet before wrapping it around the chicken. This allows you to control the crispness more precisely.
• Cheese Choice: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different low-fat cheeses. A smoked cheddar can add an extra layer of flavor, or a mild Monterey Jack will offer a creamy melt.
• Tomato Prep: For a more refined presentation, you can gently seed your tomatoes before chopping them. This removes excess moisture and ensures a cleaner topping.
• Doneness Check: Always rely on a meat thermometer to confirm your chicken is cooked through. Inserting it into the thickest part of the breast will give you the most accurate reading.
• Bacon Fat Management: While this recipe uses bacon, if you find there’s an excessive amount of rendered fat in your baking dish after cooking the chicken, you can carefully tilt the dish and spoon some of it out before adding the cheese.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This WW 6-Point Bacon Chicken Melt is best served immediately, while the cheese is still warm and gooey. It makes a fantastic light lunch or a satisfying dinner. For an attractive presentation, serve each melt on a plate, perhaps alongside a fresh green salad or a side of steamed vegetables.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the melt on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. The microwave can also be used for a quick reheat, though the cheese might not achieve the same texture.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for this recipe, which can vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients and brands used:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	459.7 kcal
Calories from Fat		52 %
Total Fat	26.6 g	40 %
Saturated Fat	10.1 g	50 %
Cholesterol	113.1 mg	37 %
Sodium	860.5 mg	35 %
Total Carbohydrate	3.3 g	1 %
Dietary Fiber	0.5 g	2 %
Sugars	1.5 g	6 %
Protein	49 g	97 %

(Note: The “Calories from Fat” value in the original data was a bit ambiguous. Assuming it refers to the percentage of total calories derived from fat.)

Variations & Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing for personal touches and dietary adjustments:

• Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chopped tomatoes or a drizzle of your favorite low-point hot sauce after cooking.
• Herbaceous Notes: Finely chopped fresh chives or parsley can be added to the chopped tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor and color.
• Veggie Boost: While the tomato is a classic topping, consider adding other finely diced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or even some sautéed mushrooms along with the tomato.

FAQs

Q: How can I ensure the bacon gets crispy when wrapped around the chicken?
A: You can partially cook the bacon in a skillet before wrapping it around the chicken, or ensure you use thinner-cut bacon.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs are a great substitute. They tend to stay moister but may require a slightly longer cooking time.

Q: What if I don’t have low-fat cheese?
A: While using low-fat cheese is key to the “WW points” aspect, you can use your preferred cheese. Just be mindful that the point value will increase.

Q: How do I make sure the chicken is cooked through without drying out?
A: Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: You can wrap the chicken breasts with bacon ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to cook and melt the cheese just before serving for optimal texture.

Final Thoughts

This WW 6-Point Bacon Chicken Melt is more than just a recipe; it’s an edible testament to the power of mindful cooking. It’s a dish that satisfies deep-seated cravings for comfort and flavor, all while respecting your health goals. I encourage you to give it a try, to experience firsthand how delicious smart eating can be. Serve it alongside a vibrant salad or a medley of roasted vegetables, and perhaps a light, crisp white wine. May it bring you as much joy and satisfaction as it has brought me.