This Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets recipe brings a burst of flavor with juicy chicken, sweet corn, black beans, and zesty spices! It’s a fun and tidy way to cook dinner.
What I love most is how simple it is to toss everything onto foil and let it cook. Plus, cleanup is a breeze! Perfect for busy days—just throw it all together and relax.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe, but thighs work great too. They add extra flavor and stay juicy. You can also use leftover grilled chicken to make this even quicker!
Corn: Use fresh corn when it’s in season for the best taste. If not, frozen corn is a fantastic substitute and just as easy. If you’re looking for a twist, try black-eyed peas or diced zucchini instead.
Black Beans: Canned black beans cut down on prep time, but don’t forget to rinse them well! If you prefer, you can swap them for kidney beans or chickpeas for a different flavor.
Bell Pepper: Red bell pepper adds sweetness. You can use green peppers for a more bitter taste or other colors like yellow or orange for a sweeter spin. They all work well!
Cheese: I love using a Mexican blend for its flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter version, try reduced-fat cheese or omit it altogether for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Moist and Flavorful?
Keeping chicken juicy is key in this recipe! Proper seasoning and sealing the packets tightly are crucial. Here’s how to maximize flavor and moisture:
- Season the chicken well on both sides before wrapping.
- Make sure the foil packets are sealed tightly to trap moisture.
- Cook at the appropriate heat for enough time to let the chicken cook through without drying out.
Also, remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping it tender and tasty!
Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 lime, sliced
For Seasoning:
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Aluminum foil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes of cooking time, for a total of around 35-40 minutes. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Cooking Device:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). Getting the heat ready means your chicken will cook perfectly!
2. Mix the Spices:
In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture gives your chicken a fantastic flavor boost!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Lightly oil the chicken breasts with olive oil or cooking spray. Then, sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast to ensure they are flavored nicely.
4. Set Up the Foil Packets:
Take four large sheets of aluminum foil and lay them flat. In the center of each sheet, place one chicken breast. This will be the star of your meal!
5. Add the Veggies:
Surround each chicken breast with the corn, black beans, diced red bell pepper, and halved cherry tomatoes. This colorful mix adds nutrition and flavor!
6. Top with Cheese and Extras:
Generously sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken and vegetables. Then, add the slices of jalapeño and lime on top for that extra touch of zest!
7. Seal the Packets:
Carefully fold the foil over the chicken and vegetables, sealing the packets tightly to trap in moisture and steam. This is what keeps your chicken juicy!
8. Cook the Packets:
Place the foil packets on the grill or a baking sheet if you’re using the oven. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the veggies are tender.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, carefully open the foil packets (watch out for steam!), and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy your tasty Santa Fe-style meal!
This easy recipe not only provides great flavors but is also a perfect solution for easy cleanup! Happy cooking!
FAQ: Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken thighs or even fish like salmon or tilapia. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary, as thinner cuts or fish will cook faster than chicken breasts.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and replacing it with more beans, mushrooms, or even firm tofu for protein. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover foil packet contents in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can use the microwave or a skillet on the stove—it’s delicious warm or even cold in a salad!
Can I Prepare These Packets in Advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the foil packets a few hours ahead of time, or even the night before. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This is a great time-saver for busy evenings!
