This Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets recipe is a real treat! Juicy chicken, colorful peppers, and black beans come together to create a tasty meal, all cooked in a simple foil packet.
You just toss everything in the packet, seal it up, and let the oven do its magic! Perfect for busy nights, plus clean-up is a breeze—who doesn’t love that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. If you’re short on time, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor, or even cooked chicken to save cooking time.
Corn: Fresh corn really shines in this dish, but don’t worry if it’s not in season. Frozen corn works perfectly! You can also substitute with canned corn if that’s what you have on hand.
Black Beans: If you’re not a fan of black beans, feel free to swap in kidney beans or pinto beans. They’ll add a nice texture and protein to the meal.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is great for that gooey top layer. If you want a different flavor kick, try pepper jack cheese for some heat or use a dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant.
How Do You Fold a Foil Packet for Cooking?
Folding the foil packets correctly helps trap all the flavors and moisture inside. Here’s how you can do it:
- Place the chicken and veggies in the center of the foil.
- Take one side of the foil and fold it over the food, sealing the edge by crimping it together.
- Do the same with the other sides, making sure there are no gaps for the steam to escape.
- Your packet should look like an envelope, snug but not overly tight to allow steam to circulate inside.
Enjoy the easy process and tasty results from these packets! They’re perfect for busy nights and everyone will love the explosion of flavors. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!
Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lime wedges, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Aluminum foil, for packet assembly
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes to bake, making a total of around 40 minutes. It’s quick and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken and veggies cook evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Veggie Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the corn, black beans, halved cherry tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, diced red bell pepper, and sliced jalapeño (if using). These colorful veggies add both flavor and nutrition!
3. Season the Veggies:
Add the olive oil, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the vegetable mixture. Stir until everything is well-coated and the spices are evenly distributed.
4. Assemble the Foil Packets:
Cut four large pieces of aluminum foil. Place one chicken breast in the center of each foil piece. Divide the vegetable mixture evenly over and around each chicken breast.
5. Add Cheese:
Top each packet generously with shredded cheddar cheese. This will melt beautifully during cooking, adding extra flavor!
6. Seal the Packets:
Carefully fold the foil over the chicken and veggies, crimping the edges to seal them tightly. Make sure the packets are secure, but leave a little space for steam to circulate inside.
7. Bake:
Place the packets onto a baking sheet and pop them in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, carefully open the packets (watch out for steam!). Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Let everyone squeeze fresh lime juice over their packets before digging in for a burst of flavor!
Enjoy this flavorful, easy-to-make Santa Fe Chicken meal with layers of zest and vibrant veggies, all neatly cooked in foil!
FAQ About Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them first to ensure even cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for a quick thaw.
Can I Add More Veggies?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute with veggies like zucchini, diced onion, or even spinach. Just make sure to cut everything into similar sizes for even cooking!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the contents in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water to keep it moist if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe on the Grill?
Certainly! These foil packets are perfect for grilling. Just preheat your grill to medium heat and cook the packets for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway for even cooking. Enjoy a delightful smoky flavor!
