This Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets recipe is super fun and tasty! Juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and zesty spices all come together for a delicious and simple meal.
Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything is cooked in foil! I love making these on busy nights; just toss them on the grill or in the oven, and let the magic happen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a quicker option, you could use chicken thighs or even pre-cooked shredded chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Corn: Fresh corn adds a great crunch, but frozen corn works well too. If you’re trying to cut carbs, you can swap it out for zucchini or cauliflower rice for a lighter version.
Black Beans: Canned black beans are super convenient. If you prefer another bean, pinto or kidney beans would also fit nicely. Just remember to drain and rinse them well to reduce sodium.
Bell Pepper: A red bell pepper gives sweetness, but feel free to use green, yellow, or even orange peppers based on your taste or what you have on hand.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar offers a classic flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the lactose!
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your chicken moist and full of flavor, there are a few tips to remember. First, make sure to coat the chicken with olive oil and season well with salt, pepper, and spices. This helps lock in moisture and infuse flavor.
- Don’t skip the marinating step; letting the spices sit on the chicken for even a few minutes enhances taste!
- Cooking time is key! Aim for 20-25 minutes at the right temperature. Overcooking can dry out the chicken.
Lastly, remember to let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking before opening your foil packets. This keeps remaining juices intact, resulting in juicy bites!
How to Make Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup black beans (canned, drained and rinsed)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional for heat)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lime, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 20-25 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and easy option for a busy evening. Just gather your ingredients, mix them up, and let them cook while you unwind!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly and deliciously!
2. Mix Your Veggies:
In a large bowl, combine the corn, black beans, diced red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good toss to mix well—they should be colorful and inviting!
3. Season the Chicken:
Drizzle some olive oil over the chicken breasts and season both sides with salt, pepper, and a pinch of the spice mixture you just made. The oil helps lock in moisture and adds flavor!
4. Prepare the Foil Packets:
Now, cut 4 large squares of aluminum foil—each square should be big enough to hold a chicken breast and the veggie mixture. You’re making little pockets of goodness!
5. Assemble the Packets:
On each piece of foil, place a generous scoop of the veggie and bean mixture at the center. Then, lay the seasoned chicken breast right on top. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over everything for that gooey, melted goodness!
6. Add the Final Touches:
If you like some heat, add a few jalapeño slices on top, along with slices of lime. This adds a fresh zing that balances the dish beautifully.
7. Seal and Cook:
Fold the foil over the chicken and vegetables to create a tightly sealed packet. This will trap all the flavors inside while it cooks. Place the packets on the grill or a baking sheet in the oven.
8. Cook and Serve:
Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (that’s an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). Once done, carefully open the packets—watch out for that steam!
9. Garnish and Enjoy!
Garnish your delicious meal with freshly chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy your colorful, flavorful Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets—a fun, hands-on way to enjoy dinner!
FAQ for Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but they need to be completely thawed before cooking. It’s best to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or use the cold water method. Frozen chicken will require a longer cooking time, so you’ll need to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. If the chicken seems a bit dry after reheating, adding a splash of chicken broth can help restore moisture.
Can I Customize the Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to use whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand. Zucchini, corn, or even mushrooms would work well. Just make sure to cut them into small, even pieces for consistent cooking.
What Can I Serve with Santa Fe Chicken?
This dish is great on its own, but for a complete meal, consider serving it with rice, quinoa, or a side salad. You can also make it a taco night by shredding the chicken and serving it in tortillas with your favorite toppings!
