Sneak Peek: Applebee’s new Weight Watchers entrees

I’ve been telling you guys about the new lower calorie menu options popping up at several chain restaurants recently, and more are coming. Monday, Applebee’s launches three new Weight Watchers endorsed entrees – I got to try them Friday at the “Behind the Menu” blogger summit.

Applebee’s flew me and a few other bloggers to its headquarters in Kansas City to taste the new dishes:

Creamy Parmesan Chicken (pictured at top of post)
PointsPlus value 12

Grilled Jalapeno-Lime Shrimp
PointsPlus value 8

Cabernet Mushroom Sirloin
PointsPlus value 12

Now… I don’t have a clue about Weight Watchers Points, but these are also all under 550 calories. And they are honestly delicious with fresh produce playing a big role. The only thing I would like to see is brown rice served with them instead of white rice, but that may be coming in the future.

The best part of the day (besides eating…) was hearing from Applebee’s culinary team. Chef Shannon Johnson and Executive Chef Jessica James talked about how they come up with new menu items and how they keep the food flavorful and healthy. We got to taste their hard work and creativity for ourselves as we sampled four entrees from the Under 550 Calories menu. My favorite:

Sizzling Asian Shrimp & Broccoli. So spicy and good!

Washed down with this tasty SkinnyBee Margarita which has about 100 calories.  Another restaurant trend I am happy to see.

Thanks, Applebee’s!