These Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets are a fun way to enjoy a tasty meal! Packed with chicken, veggies, and zesty spices, they’re healthy and so colorful.
I love how easy clean-up is since everything cooks in one packet. Plus, they’re perfect for a summer BBQ! Just throw them on the grill and relax! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using chicken thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Corn: Fresh corn is delicious, but frozen or canned corn works just as well! If you prefer a different flavor, you can swap corn for diced zucchini or bell peppers.
Black Beans: These beans add protein and fiber. If you’re short on black beans, kidney beans or pinto beans can be used instead. For a non-bean option, add cooked quinoa for texture!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice melt, but feel free to use Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier kick! For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or vegan cheese shreds.
How Do You Seal Foil Packets Properly?
Sealing the foil packets correctly ensures that all the flavors and moisture stay inside while cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Place ingredients in the center of the foil square.
- Fold one side of the foil over the food, then fold the opposite side over to create a tight seal.
- Fold the ends tightly to make sure no steam escapes.
This method helps everything cook evenly and keeps the chicken juicy. Just be cautious when opening the packets after cooking, as steam can escape!
Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Ingredients List:
- For the Main Dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen or canned, drained)
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional for heat)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- For the Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Aluminum foil
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook on the grill, for a total time of about 35-40 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious meal that can be made in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). This way, it will be hot and ready for your foil packets!
2. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning will bring amazing flavor to the chicken.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and lightly coat it with olive oil. Then sprinkle both sides of the chicken with the seasoning mix you prepared earlier. Make sure it’s evenly coated!
4. Prepare the Foil:
Lay out 4 large sheets of aluminum foil on your work surface. These will be used to wrap up your delicious chicken and vegetables.
5. Add the Vegetables:
Now, divide the corn, black beans, diced red pepper, and cherry tomatoes evenly among the center of each foil sheet. This colorful mix will add great taste and nutrition!
6. Add the Chicken:
Place one seasoned chicken breast on top of the veggie mixture in each foil packet. It’s going to be a hearty serving!
7. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each chicken breast. If you like it spicy, add a few slices of jalapeño on top!
8. Seal the Packets:
Fold the foil over the chicken and veggies, sealing each packet tightly to keep steam and flavor inside.
9. Grill the Packets:
Place the foil packets on the grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully open the foil packets after cooking (watch for steam!). Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and squeeze some lime juice over the top for a burst of flavor before serving.
Enjoy your vibrant and tasty Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets—perfect for a quick and healthy meal with minimal clean-up!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out any of the vegetables for your favorites. Zucchini, yellow squash, or even diced carrots can make great substitutes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the veggies you choose.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in the Oven Instead of the Grill?
Yes, you can easily bake the foil packets in the oven! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the packets on a baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Just make sure to check the internal temperature!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or gently warm in the oven. You might want to add a splash of water to keep everything moist!
Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?
Yes, these foil packets can be assembled and frozen before cooking! Just wrap them tightly in foil, then place in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the fridge and grill as directed. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re still a bit frozen.
