This Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets recipe is a tasty way to make dinner! With juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and zesty spices, it’s a dish that brightens up any meal.
You just throw everything in a foil pack and let it cook! Clean-up is a breeze, making it a perfect choice for busy nights. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe since they cook evenly. If you want, you can substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor, or even use tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option.
Corn: You can use fresh, canned, or frozen corn here. If corn isn’t available, consider substituting with peas or diced zucchini.
Black beans: They’re packed with protein and add a nice texture. If you can’t find black beans, pinto or kidney beans work well. You can also skip beans if you prefer a lighter dish!
Cheese: Cheddar is delicious, but feel free to use pepper jack for a spicy twist or mozzarella for a milder flavor. Dairy-free cheese is a good alternative for those with lactose intolerance.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken in Foil Packets?
Cooking chicken in foil packets can seem tricky, but it’s quite simple! The goal is to cook the chicken evenly while keeping it juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure the chicken is at a uniform thickness. If some pieces are thick, consider pounding them down to even them out.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Seal the foil tightly to trap steam, which helps cook the chicken and veggies. But don’t forget to leave a little space for air expansion!
- For a charred effect, you can open the packets in the last few minutes of cooking and put them under the broiler.
Following these tips will guarantee tender and tasty chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional for spice)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep your ingredients and assemble the foil packets. Then, allow about 25-30 minutes for baking in the oven or 20-25 minutes for grilling. In total, plan on roughly 40 minutes for a delicious, hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or get your grill ready at medium heat. This will ensure your chicken cooks perfectly as soon as you place it in!
2. Mix Your Dry Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This will be your seasoning mix to add flavor to the chicken and vegetables.
3. Prepare Foil Sheets:
Lay out four large sheets of aluminum foil on a clean surface or a baking sheet. Make sure they are large enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably!
4. Add Chicken and Season:
Place one chicken breast in the center of each foil sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the top of the chicken.
5. Add the Veggies:
Evenly distribute the corn, black beans, diced red and green bell peppers, and half of the cherry tomatoes around each piece of chicken. This colorful mix adds nutrition and flavor.
6. Cheese It Up:
Top each chicken breast with the remaining cherry tomatoes and a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese. If you’re feeling adventurous, add slices of jalapeño on top for an extra kick!
7. Seal the Packets:
Carefully fold the foil over the chicken and veggies to create securely sealed packets. Make sure they are well-sealed to keep in all the delicious juices!
8. Cooking Time:
Place the packets in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. If cooking on the grill, let them cook for 20-25 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully open the foil packets (watch out for steam!). Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for that zesty finish. Serve hot, right from the foil packets for an easy and enjoyable cleanup!
Enjoy this colorful, flavorful, and simple Santa Fe Chicken dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or upcoming camping trips!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw the chicken completely before cooking to ensure even doneness. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Be sure to pat it dry before seasoning!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the foil packets in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes meal prep super convenient and saves time on busy nights!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover foil packet contents in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, or you can warm them back up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What Can I Serve with Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets?
These packets are tasty on their own, but you can serve them over rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad to round out the meal. You could also pair them with tortilla chips or warm tortillas for a complete Mexican-inspired feast!
