These Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets are a fun and tasty meal! Packed with chicken, colorful bell peppers, black beans, and spices, they bring a burst of flavor to your dinner.
Making dinner in foil packets means less mess and easy clean-up—who doesn’t love that? Plus, you can toss them on the grill or in the oven. It’s a win-win! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets work well too. For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms.
Corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness, but canned or frozen corn is equally good. If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, try using diced sweet potatoes or zucchini instead.
Black Beans: Black beans are high in protein and fiber. You can swap them with kidney beans or pinto beans if needed, or use chickpeas for a different texture.
Peppers: Red and green bell peppers add color and crunch. If you prefer a milder taste, use yellow or orange peppers. For added heat, consider using more jalapeños or a hotter pepper.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is classic, but feel free to use jack cheese, queso fresco, or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
How Do You Make Sure Chicken is Cooked Perfectly in Foil Packets?
Cooking chicken in foil packets is convenient but requires some attention to ensure it’s cooked through. Here are my tips:
- Make sure your chicken breasts are of even thickness. If they vary a lot, pound them gently to a uniform thickness, ensuring even cooking.
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer: it should read 165°F (74°C).
- Keep an eye on the cooking time, especially if you’re using larger or smaller chicken pieces; adjust as needed.
Also, let the packets sit for a couple of minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken more tender and flavorful!
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 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1-2 fresh jalapeños, sliced
- 1 lime, sliced
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Olive oil or cooking spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to cook, depending on whether you’re using a grill or an oven. With a total of around 35-40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and colorful dinner ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven or Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready when you are.
2. Prepare the Veggie Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the corn, black beans, diced red and green bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the veggies with all those tasty spices.
3. Prepare the Foil Sheets:
Tear off four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil (about 12×12 inches each). Be sure to lightly spray or brush each sheet with olive oil to keep everything from sticking later. This will make cleanup easier!
4. Assemble the Packets:
Place one chicken breast in the center of each foil sheet. Use your hands or a spoon to divide the seasoned vegetable mixture evenly around each chicken breast, making sure to cover the chicken well.
5. Add Cheese and Jalapeños:
Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken and veggies. Then, add slices of fresh jalapeño and a slice or two of lime on top for extra flavor.
6. Seal the Packets:
Carefully fold the foil over the chicken and veggies, sealing the edges tightly to form secure packets. Make sure no steam can escape so everything cooks well!
7. Cook the Packets:
Put the foil packets on the grill or on a baking sheet if you’re using the oven. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Check the packets in case they need a bit longer depending on your chicken’s thickness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully open the foil packets—remember to watch out for the hot steam! If you like, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy your beautiful, flavorful meal!
There you go—your Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets are ready to delight everyone at the table! Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
While you can use frozen chicken, it’s best to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight for even cooking. If you’re in a hurry, you can also thaw it quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water before proceeding with the recipe.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or a variety of vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms. You can add more beans or chickpeas to ensure you have enough protein. Adjust cooking times accordingly since vegetables may cook faster than chicken.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the cooled packets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them back in the oven or microwave, making sure to warm them gently until heated through.
What Can I Serve with These Foil Packets?
These foil packets are packed with flavor and can be served as is! If you’d like, pair them with a side of rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad to round out the meal. Enjoy your colorful feast!
