This Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets recipe is a fun, tasty way to enjoy a flavorful meal! It features juicy chicken, sweet peppers, and zesty taco seasoning, all wrapped up and ready to cook.
Cooking in foil makes cleanup super easy, and you can toss in any veggies you like! I love how effortless it is—just prepare, seal up the packets, and toss them on the grill. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless is best for this recipe as they cook evenly. For a twist, you could use chicken thighs for more juiciness or even turkey breasts if you prefer.
Corn: I love using fresh corn in season, but you can easily use canned or frozen corn if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to drain canned corn well!
Black Beans: These add great protein and fiber. If you’re not a fan, try kidney beans or chickpeas as a substitute. Just make sure to rinse them to reduce sodium.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds rich flavor. Feel free to swap it out for Monterey Jack or a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Jalapeño: The jalapeño is optional but adds a nice kick. If you want less heat, try using bell pepper instead, or skip it altogether!
How Do You Make Sure Your Chicken is Perfectly Cooked in Foil Packets?
Cooking chicken in foil packets is easy, but making sure it’s perfectly juicy is key. Here are some tips to help you nail it:
- Evenly season your chicken with olive oil and spices to ensure full flavor.
- Seal the packets tightly to trap steam, helping the chicken cook evenly.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. You want it to reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Don’t rush it! Cooking times may vary based on your grill or oven, so keep an eye on your packets.
With these tips, your chicken will be tender and packed with flavor every time!
Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Veggies:
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- Cheese: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- Optional Heat: 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
- Spices:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Garnish:
- Fresh lime slices
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal will take approximately 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook. So in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a busy weeknight or weekend barbecue gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill or Oven:
Set your grill to medium-high heat or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for getting that delicious, juicy chicken!
2. Mix the Spice Blend:
In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This blend will bring a fantastic flavor to your chicken!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Rub each chicken breast with olive oil, then coat evenly with the spice mixture. This makes the chicken flavorful and helps keep it moist!
4. Make the Foil Packets:
Cut out 4 large pieces of aluminum foil and lightly spray them with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will help with cleanup later! Place one chicken breast in the center of each foil piece.
5. Add the Veggies:
On each foil packet, distribute the corn, black beans, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes evenly around the chicken. This colorful mix adds great taste and nutrition!
6. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken and veggies. For extra flavor, add jalapeño slices on top if you want some heat.
7. Seal the Packets:
Fold the foil over the chicken and veggies to seal tightly, making sure there are no openings. This helps trap steam for perfectly cooked chicken!
8. Cooking Time:
Place the packets directly on the grill or on a baking sheet if using the oven. Cook for 20-25 minutes on the grill or 25-30 minutes in the oven until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully open the packets (watch out for steam!) and garnish with fresh lime slices and chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, colorful meal!
This easy foil packet recipe makes a flavorful meal with minimal cleanup—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or backyard cookout!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking. If you only have frozen chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or in cold water before preparing the foil packets. This will ensure the chicken cooks properly and remains juicy.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
Feel free to swap out any veggies based on your preference or what you have on hand! Other great options include zucchini, yellow squash, or even broccoli. Just chop them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can also add a splash of broth or water to help keep them moist.
Can I Cook These Foil Packets in the Oven?
Absolutely! Just preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the sealed packets on a baking sheet for 25-30 minutes. Check that the chicken is cooked through before serving!
