6 Healthier Game Day Recipes

1. Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip by Eating Bird Food

Game day wouldn’t be the same without buffalo chicken dip, and this recipe from Eating Bird Food is a great choice if you’re looking for a lighter take on a classic appetizer. Made with Greek yogurt and cottage cheese instead of cream cheese and ranch dressing, it’s high in protein and lower in calories and fat, but still creamy and mouthwatering, complete with that buffalo kick everyone loves. Pair with celery, carrots, pretzels or tortilla chips.

2. Avocado Corn Salsa from Taste of Home Magazine

This flavorful salsa is full of fruits and vegetables, from avocado and peach to corn and red onion. And it’s good for much more than dipping chips. Spoon it over game day tacos, serve it alongside perfectly grilled steak or toss it into a salad or grain bowl for an extra burst of flavor. However you serve it up, it’s a simple way to add a bit of freshness to your game day buffet.

3. Air Fryer Fried Pickles by The Pioneer Woman

Let’s face it: deep-fried food is irresistible but not exactly good for you. That’s what makes air frying feel revolutionary — you get that same satisfying crunch without all the excess oil. All you need for this game day appetizer are your pickle chips of choice, ingredients for making the breading and a bit of cooking spray. Cook in the air fryer until browned and crunchy, and enjoy with a side of ranch, spicy mayo or other dipping sauce.

4. Garlic Parmesan Wings by All the Healthy Things

Are you looking for a crispy chicken wing recipe that doesn’t require frying? Try these garlic Parmesan wings by All the Healthy Things. Coat the wings in a homemade garlic-herb sauce, sprinkle them generously with fresh Parmesan cheese and then air fry or bake until hot and crispy. Both methods bring the crunch without the extra oil. These wings are sure to be a winner at your next gathering.

5. Easy Crockpot White Chicken Chili by Healthy Seasonal Recipes

Made with flavorful chicken thighs and plenty of vegetables, this crockpot recipe is as simple as it is delicious. Just toss the ingredients into the pot, set the timer and wait while the magic happens. Using just a half cup of heavy cream and cornmeal will make your chili thick and creamy while keeping the calories lower. At just 365 calories for a two-cup serving, you can indulge a little (or a lot). So garnish with a bit of cheese and get ready to enjoy.

6. Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies from Taste of Home

Every game day get-together needs a sweet treat, and these chewy chocolate chip cookies are just the thing to satisfy your sweet tooth. This recipe uses vanilla pudding mix and more brown sugar than white sugar to achieve that extra chewy texture. If you’re looking to lessen the amount of sugar in your cookies, you could opt for sugar-free pudding mix and sugar-free chocolate chips. Soft, moist and only about 97 calories per cookie, it’ll be hard to stop at just one.

Dips, wings, chili and dessert — who says game day favorites can’t be better for you? Whether you’re hosting the next gathering or bringing a tailgate dish to share, you’re sure to have something everyone will love as you cheer on your favorite team.

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