This Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets recipe is a fun and tasty way to enjoy a meal! Packed with juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and delicious spices, it’s cooked right on your grill.
It’s like a little surprise package of flavor! I love how easy it is to clean up afterward—I just toss the foil! Perfect for busy nights when you want something yummy without the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make this recipe quick and easy. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Corn: Fresh corn is wonderful when in season, but canned or frozen corn is just as good here. In a pinch, black-eyed peas can work too, adding a different texture and taste.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If black beans aren’t available, pinto beans or kidney beans will also work well!
Jalapeño Peppers: For those who prefer less heat, feel free to skip the jalapeños or use bell peppers instead. You can also use banana peppers for a milder option.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar is my favorite, but feel free to use Monterey Jack or a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for alternatives.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken to the right temperature is crucial. An easy way to check is using a meat thermometer; you want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part, and ensure it’s no longer pink inside.
- Make sure to seal your foil packets tightly to keep moisture in, which helps cook the chicken evenly.
- Cooking time may vary based on your grill’s heat or the oven, so keep an eye on it after about 20 minutes.
Incorporating these insights will help you create delicious Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets successfully. Happy cooking!
Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Components:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 cup diced red onion
- 1 to 2 jalapeño peppers, sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
For Seasoning:
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other Ingredients:
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Aluminum foil sheets (large enough to wrap each packet)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take approximately 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of cooking time on the grill or in the oven. So, in about 35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and colorful meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Heat Source:
First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using an oven instead, set it to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and a bit of salt and pepper. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts, then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly on both sides. Use your hands to press it in gently.
3. Setup the Foil Packets:
Cut four large squares of aluminum foil. Place one chicken breast in the center of each foil sheet. Surround the chicken with equal amounts of corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, diced green and red bell peppers, red onion, and jalapeño slices.
4. Add Lime Juice and Cheese:
Squeeze fresh lime juice over all the ingredients in each foil packet. Then, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken and veggies.
5. Seal the Packets:
Fold the foil over the chicken and vegetables to seal tightly, making sure no steam can escape. This helps to keep everything moist during cooking.
6. Cooking the Packets:
Place the foil packets on the preheated grill or a baking sheet if using the oven. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)—and the vegetables are tender.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully open the foil packets (watch out for the hot steam). Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious meal!
With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, these Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets will quickly become a favorite in your household!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you need to make sure they are fully thawed before seasoning and cooking. Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method: place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Black Beans?
If you don’t have black beans, you can use pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas as alternatives. They all add great protein and fiber to the dish!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover foil packet contents in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. You can add a splash of lime juice to freshen up the flavors!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the foil packets in advance and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they are chilled when you place them on the grill or in the oven.
