This Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets recipe is a tasty dinner option that’s super simple to make! Just chicken, veggies, and some flavorful spices come together quickly in foil packets.
My family loves how juicy and tender the chicken turns out! Plus, clean-up is a breeze since everything cooks in one packet. Who doesn’t love less mess and more yum? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy cooking. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey breast works too, or you can use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Veggies: The combo of corn, black beans, and bell peppers adds color and texture. Frozen corn works great if fresh isn’t available. You can swap in any veggies you love, like zucchini or mushrooms.
Spices: Chili powder and smoked paprika add depth. If you prefer less spice, reduce the amounts, or try using taco seasoning. It’s also great with cumin for warmth and garlic powder for flavor.
Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar, but you can easily replace it with Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a little heat. Dairy-free cheese alternatives work too for a non-dairy option.
How Do I Seal the Foil Packets Correctly?
Sealing foil packets properly ensures that all the flavors cook together without leaking. Here’s how to do it:
- After adding your ingredients, bring the long sides of the foil together first and fold them over three times to create a seal.
- Next, fold the short sides tightly, making a little packet. Make sure to leave some room for steam to circulate inside.
- If you’re using thicker chicken or veggies, fold more tightly to ensure everything cooks evenly.
This method keeps the moisture in, resulting in juicy chicken and flavorful veggies. Just be careful when opening your packet; it’s hot inside! 😊
Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Olive oil or cooking spray
Time Needed:
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and then 25-30 minutes to bake, giving you a total of around 40 minutes. With minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Getting the oven hot will help your chicken cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This will add lots of flavor to your chicken!
3. Set Up the Chicken:
Take large sheets of aluminum foil and spray them lightly with olive oil or cooking spray. Place a chicken breast in the middle of each sheet.
4. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast, making sure to coat them well.
5. Add Veggies & Cheese:
On top of each chicken breast, pile on equal amounts of corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, and the diced bell peppers. Don’t forget to add shredded cheddar cheese for that yummy melty goodness!
6. Spice It Up:
If you like some heat, place a few slices of jalapeño on top of the cheese.
7. Seal the Packets:
Fold the foil around the chicken and veggies to seal the packets tightly. Make sure they are closed well to keep all the flavors in!
8. Bake:
Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Check that the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Serve:
When the chicken is ready, carefully open the foil packets (watch out for steam!) and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges for a burst of flavor!
This easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets recipe is a fun way to enjoy a flavorful meal with very little cleanup. Enjoy! 🎉
FAQ for Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To thaw quickly, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes, or leave them in the fridge overnight.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the foil packets in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to seal them tightly and keep them cold until you’re ready to bake them!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave for a quick option.
What Can I Substitute for Black Beans?
If you don’t have black beans, feel free to replace them with pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas. Each option will provide a different flavor but will still complement the dish nicely!
