These Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets are full of yummy flavors! With tender chicken, black beans, corn, and spices, they make dinner super simple and fun!
Who doesn’t love a one-stop meal? Just toss everything in a packet, throw it on the grill or in the oven, and voilà! Cleanup is a breeze, and you’ll have time for dessert.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. They cook well and stay juicy. If you’re looking for alternatives, try using thighs for more flavor or even turkey breast for a leaner option.
Corn: Fresh, canned, or frozen corn all work great. If you’re looking for something different, you can substitute with diced zucchini or even use quinoa for a unique twist!
Black Beans: These add protein and a nice texture. If you can’t use them, kidney beans or pinto beans are good replacements. You can even skip them for a lighter dish.
Cheese: I love cheddar for its melting quality, but feel free to switch it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack if you want some spice. Vegan cheese can also work for a dairy-free option!
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika give a lovely flavor. If you want a different vibe, taco seasoning can be a good swap, and you can adjust the quantity based on heat preference.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Tender and Juicy?
The key to juicy chicken in these foil packets lies in cooking time and temperature. Follow these tips:
- Always preheat your grill or oven to ensure even cooking.
- Seal the foil packets well to trap steam. This helps cook the chicken evenly and keeps it moist.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer here can be a game changer.
- Let the packets rest a few minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices locked in.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken every time! Happy cooking!
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, rinsed and drained
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
- Aluminum foil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes for a fun, tasty meal that comes together in foil packets!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures everything will cook evenly!
2. Make the Veggie Mixture:
In a bowl, mix together the corn, black beans, diced red bell pepper, and halved cherry tomatoes. This colorful medley will add flavor and nutrition to your meal.
3. Season the Chicken:
Now, take your chicken breasts and season them on both sides with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, plus salt and pepper. This is where the magic of flavor begins!
4. Prepare the Foil Packets:
Next, tear four large pieces of aluminum foil (enough to wrap each chicken breast and the veggies). Place each chicken breast in the center of a foil piece.
5. Add the Veggies:
Divide that yummy vegetable mixture evenly among the packets, placing it around and on top of the chicken. It’s like a colorful party in there!
6. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Drizzle a bit of olive oil over each packet to add moisture and flavor. This keeps everything nice and juicy!
7. Seal Up Tight:
Fold the foil over the chicken and veggies, sealing the packets tightly to trap steam. No leaks, please!
8. Cook the Packets:
Place the foil packets on the grill or on a baking sheet if you’re using the oven. Cook for 20-25 minutes on the grill or 25-30 minutes in the oven, until the chicken is fully cooked (aim for an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
9. Melt the Cheese:
Once cooked, carefully open each packet and sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top. Reseal the foil for a few minutes to let the cheese melt beautifully.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Open the packets again and top with sliced jalapeños and fresh cilantro for that extra zing. Serve with lime wedges to squeeze over just before digging in.
Enjoy your flavorful, easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets! They are perfect for a simple weeknight meal with minimal cleanup!
FAQ for Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just ensure to thaw it completely before preparing the foil packets. You can thaw by placing the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or using the quick method of sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken with tofu or extra beans and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on what you use to ensure everything cooks through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or back in the oven. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to keep them from drying out.
What Can I Serve with These Foil Packets?
These foil packets are great on their own, but you can serve them with sides like brown rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. For added flavor, consider serving with avocado slices or fresh salsa!
