Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets

In recent years, foil packet meals have surged in popularity among home cooks and outdoor enthusiasts alike. These meals not only pack a punch in flavor but also offer a unique cooking method that simplifies meal preparation and cleanup. Foil packets are particularly appealing for their convenience, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even camping trips. Among the myriad of options available, the Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets stand out as a delicious and vibrant meal that embodies the spirit of Southwestern cooking.

Discover the joy of cooking with Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets! This easy and flavorful recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and zesty seasonings all wrapped in foil for minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or outdoor cooking, these packets are versatile and customizable. Enjoy a delicious meal that locks in flavor and moisture, making every bite juicy and satisfying. Perfect for any occasion!

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Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)

1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green, diced)

1 small red onion (diced)

1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)

1 avocado (diced, for topping after baking)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your cheese of choice)

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)

Lime wedges (for serving, optional)

4 large sheets of aluminum foil

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you are cooking the packets in the oven. If grilling, preheat your grill over medium heat.

Prepare the Chicken: Place the boneless chicken breasts in a mixing bowl. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.

Assemble the Foil Packets: Cut four sheets of aluminum foil, each roughly 12x12 inches. In the center of each foil sheet, place an equal portion of the seasoned chicken. Surround the chicken with the corn, black beans, diced bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.

Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of each chicken and vegetable mixture.

Seal the Packets: Fold the sides of the aluminum foil over the chicken and vegetables, creating a sealed packet. Ensure there are no openings to prevent steam from escaping during cooking.

Cook the Packets: For oven cooking, place the packets on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). For grilling, place the packets directly on the grill grates and cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally.

Finish and Serve: Once cooked, carefully open the foil packets (watch out for steam). Top each packet with diced avocado and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve the packets with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35-40 minutes | Serves 4