Healthy Olive Garden Grilled Chicken Margherita Copycat: Low-Calorie & Weight Watchers Friendly

Imagine succulent chicken breast, perfectly grilled and bathed in a luscious buttery lemon sauce, adorned with vibrant cherry tomatoes and fresh pesto. This culinary dream is precisely what our revamped Olive Garden Grilled Chicken Margherita copycat recipe delivers! We’ve meticulously crafted this dish to capture all the incredible flavors you love from the restaurant classic, while significantly reducing calories and making it incredibly Weight Watchers friendly. Get ready to enjoy a guilt-free gourmet experience right in your own kitchen.

This Margherita chicken tastes so incredibly decadent and juicy, it’s hard to believe how much lighter it is than the original. For those following Weight Watchers, you’ll be delighted to know that each serving is a mere 4 points, making it an ideal choice for a healthy and satisfying meal. The best part? This show-stopping dish can be on your table in under half an hour, proving that complex flavors don’t always require complex cooking. Its simplicity belies its sophisticated taste, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Why You Need This Olive Garden Grilled Chicken Margherita Copycat Recipe in Your Life

If you’re looking for a recipe that combines ease with elegance and health with hearty flavor, look no further. This Olive Garden Grilled Chicken Margherita copycat is a game-changer for home cooks. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation:

Quick and Impressive: Despite its gourmet appeal, this Margherita chicken recipe is surprisingly fast to prepare. It’s perfect for impressing dinner guests or satisfying even the pickiest eaters without spending hours in the kitchen. Its vibrant colors and rich aromas are sure to make a lasting impression.
Flavorful & Diet-Friendly: Packed with bold Italian flavors from the pesto, lemon, and garlic, this dish doesn’t compromise on taste. Yet, it’s remarkably light, with each chicken breast being only 4 Weight Watchers points. This makes it an excellent option for those managing their intake without sacrificing deliciousness.
Incredibly Versatile: This chicken isn’t just a standalone star; it’s a versatile component for countless meals. Serve it over a bed of whole-wheat pasta to soak up all the delectable sauce, alongside crusty Italian bread for dipping, or with a fresh side salad and grilled seasonal vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. Its adaptability makes meal planning a breeze.
Family Favorite: The combination of tender chicken, melted mozzarella, and bright flavors makes this a dish that appeals to almost everyone. It’s a great way to introduce healthy eating to your family in a fun and delicious way, easily becoming a staple in your household.
Ideal for Meal Prep: Cook a larger batch and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week. This chicken reheats beautifully and can be repurposed into sandwiches, salads, or wraps, providing healthy and tasty options for lunches or quick dinners.

Essential Ingredients for Your Grilled Margherita Chicken

Crafting this delicious dish requires a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients. We’ve chosen each component not only for its flavor but also for its contribution to a lighter, healthier meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken Breasts (2): Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Slicing them horizontally creates thinner cutlets that cook quickly and absorb marinade more effectively, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
Light Italian Salad Dressing (½ cup): This is your secret weapon for a flavorful marinade that keeps the chicken incredibly moist without adding excessive calories or fat. It infuses the chicken with classic Italian herbs and spices.
Lemon (1, juiced): Fresh lemon juice is crucial for the buttery lemon sauce, providing a bright, tangy counterpoint to the richness of the pesto and butter. Always use fresh for the best flavor!
Garlic (3 cloves): Minced garlic adds a foundational aromatic depth to the sauce, enhancing the overall Italian profile of the dish. Don’t skimp on this flavor booster!
Low-Fat Buttery Spread (1 tbsp): A clever substitute for traditional butter, this spread delivers that desirable rich, buttery flavor while keeping the fat content and Weight Watchers points significantly lower.
Basil Pesto (½ cup): The star of the show! High-quality basil pesto brings vibrant herbal notes, a touch of garlic, and a beautiful green hue. Look for a good quality brand or even make your own for an extra fresh taste.
Shredded Low-Fat Mozzarella (½ cup): This cheese melts beautifully, creating a creamy, gooey topping without the high fat content of full-fat versions. It adds a crucial texture and mild, savory flavor.
Fresh Basil Leaves: A final garnish of fresh basil leaves not only adds a pop of color but also intensifies the aromatic basil flavor, elevating the dish to a truly authentic Italian experience.
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved or quartered cherry tomatoes bring a burst of juicy sweetness and a slight acidity, perfectly balancing the richness of the other ingredients. Their vibrant color also makes the dish visually appealing.

Step-by-Step Guide to Grilled Margherita Chicken Perfection

Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. Precision and attention to detail will ensure your chicken is juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor.

Begin by preparing your chicken. Take each chicken breast and carefully slice it in half horizontally. This technique, often called butterflying, creates two thinner cutlets from each breast, allowing them to cook faster and more evenly, and absorb the marinade better. Place these thin chicken steaks into a shallow bowl. Pour the light Italian dressing over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for maximum flavor. While it’s tempting to rush this step, marinating is key to tender, flavorful chicken.
Preheat your oven to 220°C (375°F). This dual-cooking method (pan-sear, then bake) ensures a beautiful sear and thorough cooking. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, drizzle with a little olive oil or cooking spray. Add the marinated chicken breasts to the hot skillet. If your skillet isn’t large enough to cook all four pieces without crowding, cook them in two batches to ensure a good sear. Crowding the pan will steam the chicken instead of searing it, preventing that golden-brown crust.
Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes on the first side until it develops a golden crust. Then, carefully flip each piece and cook for another 2 minutes. The chicken won’t be fully cooked at this stage, and that’s perfectly fine as it will finish in the oven. At this point, add the low-fat buttery spread, fresh lemon juice, and a generous sprinkle of black pepper to the pan. Stir gently to create a vibrant lemon-butter sauce. Spoon this delicious sauce liberally over the chicken a few times to infuse it with flavor. Carefully transfer the chicken and all the pan sauce to a baking dish, arranging the pieces in a single layer.
Now for the Margherita topping! Evenly distribute the shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese over each chicken breast. Then, add a few generous dollops of basil pesto on top of the cheese. Finally, scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around and over the chicken in the baking dish. This creates a visually appealing and incredibly flavorful crust.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 7-10 minutes. The goal is for the cheese to be perfectly melted and bubbly, and the chicken to be cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). The remaining pan juices will keep the chicken incredibly succulent. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve immediately with the glorious pan sauce drizzled liberally over the top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness.

Weight Watchers Points Breakdown (Per Serving)

One of the best features of this recipe is its incredible diet-friendliness, especially for those following Weight Watchers. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the points per ingredient, highlighting how we keep this dish light without sacrificing flavor:

Chicken Breasts (2, divided into 4 servings): 0 points. Lean chicken breast is a zero-point food on most Weight Watchers plans, making it an excellent protein base.
Light Italian Salad Dressing (½ cup, divided into 4 servings): 6 points. While the dressing adds flavor, choosing a “light” version significantly reduces its point value compared to regular dressings.
Lemon (1, juiced): 0 points. Fresh fruits like lemons are typically zero points, adding brightness without caloric cost.
Garlic (3 cloves): 0 points. Aromatic vegetables and herbs are typically zero points, providing immense flavor for free.
Light Buttery Spread (1 tbsp, divided into 4 servings): 2 points. Using a low-fat buttery spread instead of traditional butter dramatically lowers the points while still contributing a rich taste.
Basil Pesto (½ cup, divided into 4 servings): 6 points. Pesto can be high in points due to oil and nuts, but using it sparingly and as a flavorful topping helps manage the total. Consider homemade pesto with less oil for even lower points.
Low-Fat Shredded Mozzarella (½ cup, divided into 4 servings): 4 points. Opting for low-fat cheese is a smart swap that reduces saturated fat and points while still providing a creamy texture.
Basil Leaves: 0 points. Fresh herbs are freebies on Weight Watchers, adding vibrant flavor and garnish without points.
Cherry Tomatoes: 0 points. Fresh vegetables are zero-point foods, contributing sweetness, acidity, and nutrients.

With smart ingredient choices, this decadent-tasting meal comes in at only 4 points per serving, proving that healthy eating can be incredibly delicious and satisfying!

Creative Variations and Smart Substitutions

This Grilled Chicken Margherita recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to experiment with these variations and substitutions to suit your taste preferences, dietary needs, or what you have on hand:

For a Richer Flavor: If your daily points or calorie budget allows, you can switch the low-fat buttery spread for regular salted butter. This will undoubtedly deliver an even richer, more luxurious sauce.
Marinade Alternatives: While light Italian dressing is fantastic, you can certainly switch it out. Use your favorite homemade chicken marinade, or any other oil-based dressing that complements Italian flavors, such as a balsamic vinaigrette or a lemon-herb dressing.
Cheese Choices: While low-fat mozzarella is excellent for points, feel free to use fresh mozzarella for an authentic Italian touch (adjust points accordingly). A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the top before baking would also add a salty, umami kick.
Add More Vegetables: Increase the nutritional value and volume by adding more vegetables. Sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be scattered around the chicken in the baking dish before baking.
Herb Boost: Beyond basil, a sprinkle of fresh oregano, thyme, or a dash of dried Italian seasoning can further enhance the herbaceous notes of the dish.
Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added to the sauce or sprinkled over the chicken before baking can provide a delightful kick.
Other Proteins: While chicken breast is ideal for Weight Watchers, this preparation method would also work well with turkey breast cutlets or even firm white fish fillets like cod or halibut, adjusting cooking times as needed.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Grilled Margherita Chicken

Achieving culinary excellence is often about the little details. Here are some extra tips and tricks to ensure your Grilled Chicken Margherita turns out perfectly every time:

Don’t Overcook the Pan-Sear: Remember, the chicken will continue to cook in the oven. The initial searing is primarily for developing a beautiful golden-brown crust and locking in juices. Don’t worry about cooking it through completely in the pan; it will turn out perfectly juicy and succulent thanks to the gentle baking in all those flavorful juices.
Marinating Time Matters: While 30 minutes is the minimum, an hour of marinating will yield significantly more tender and flavorful chicken. If time permits, you can even marinate it for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
High Heat for Searing: Ensure your skillet is properly heated to medium-high before adding the chicken. A hot pan is essential for a good sear, preventing the chicken from sticking and ensuring a crispy exterior.
Rest the Chicken: After removing the baking dish from the oven, allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and moist chicken.
Fresh is Best for Garnish: Always use fresh basil leaves for garnish. The vibrant color and intense aroma of fresh basil truly elevate the dish, enhancing its visual appeal and overall flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions Beyond the Plate: This dish is fantastic on its own, but it pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, quinoa, or a simple side of roasted asparagus or broccoli for a truly satisfying meal.

Meal Prep and Storing Leftovers

This recipe is excellent for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week. Here’s how to handle leftovers and make the most of your cooking effort:

Storage: Any leftover Grilled Chicken Margherita can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors tend to meld even more overnight, making it just as delicious, if not more so, the next day.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the microwave until heated through, or place it back in a preheated oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 10-15 minutes, covering it loosely with foil to prevent drying out. You can also briefly reheat it in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat.
Creative Leftover Ideas:
- Sandwiches or Wraps: Slice the leftover chicken and layer it into whole-wheat bread or a tortilla with some fresh greens and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Salad Topping: Chop the cold chicken and add it to a fresh garden salad for a protein-packed lunch.
- Pasta Remix: Toss the leftover chicken and sauce with some freshly cooked pasta for a quick and easy second meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about making this delightful Grilled Chicken Margherita:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?: Yes, absolutely! Chicken thighs would also work wonderfully in this recipe, offering a slightly richer flavor and more moisture. Adjust cooking times as thighs typically require a bit longer to cook through than breasts. Keep in mind that using thighs will affect the Weight Watchers point count.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?: To make this recipe dairy-free, you would need to use a dairy-free mozzarella alternative and ensure your pesto is dairy-free (some contain Parmesan cheese, so check the label or make your own with nutritional yeast). The buttery spread can usually be found in dairy-free versions.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?: You can marinate the chicken a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to deepen even further. The entire dish can also be assembled in the baking dish a few hours ahead of time and kept in the fridge, then baked just before serving.
What if I don’t have a skillet suitable for the oven?: If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, simply complete the searing steps as instructed. Then, transfer the chicken and all the pan sauce to a regular baking dish before adding the toppings and baking in the oven. This works just as well!
How can I make the pesto lower in calories/points?: You can make your own homemade pesto using less oil, or substitute some of the oil with water or vegetable broth. Also, using a lighter hand with the nuts (pine nuts or walnuts) can help reduce calories, or opting for nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese if you want to reduce dairy and fat.

4.67 from 3 votes

Olive Garden Grilled Margherita Chicken (Copycat) Recipe

Servings:

4
people

Prep:

10
mins

Cook:

20
mins

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Under half an hour cook time, this Margherita chicken will taste super decadent and juicy but comes in at only 4 points per serving.

Ingredients

2
Chicken Breasts
½
cup
Italian salad dressing, light
1
Lemon juice
3
cloves
Garlic
1
tbsp
Buttery spread, low fat
½
cup
Basil Pesto
½
cup
Low fat mozarella, shredded
Basil leaves

Instructions

Slice the chicken breast in half horizontally to make two thin steaks. Place in a bowl with the italian dressing and leave to marinate 30 minutes-an hour.
Preheat the oven to 220C/375F. Heat a skillet over a medium-high heat and drizzle with oil. Add the chicken breasts once hot, cooking in two batches if required.
Cook the chicken 5-6 minutes on the first side them turn. Cook a further 2 minutes then add the butter spread, lemon juice and black pepper to the pan, spooning the sauce over the chicken a few times. Transfer to a baking dish and pour over the sauce.
Top the chicken with mozzarella, a few dollops of pesto and scatter the cherry tomatoes around.
Bake 7-10 minutes until the cheese has melted the chicken cooked through. Serve with the sauce drizzled liberally drizzled over top.

Nutrition

Serving:
200
g

Calories:
287
kcal

Carbohydrates:
36
g

Protein:
8.5
g

Fat:
12
g

Saturated Fat:
2.3
g

Cholesterol:
4.5
mg

Sodium:
547
mg

Potassium:
37
mg

Fiber:
2.1
g

Sugar:
5.8
g

Calcium:
90
mg

Iron:
2.5
mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course:
Main Course

Cuisine:
Italian

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