This Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets recipe is a fun way to cook! You get juicy chicken with vibrant veggies wrapped up neatly. Plus, it’s packed with tasty Southwest flavors that everyone loves.
Cooking in foil makes clean-up a breeze—just toss the packet away! I love serving it with some warm tortillas for a complete meal. Can’t wait for you to try this delicious and simple dish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for quick cooking. You can substitute them with chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly because thighs may take a bit longer.
Corn: You can use canned, frozen, or fresh corn. If you don’t have corn, diced zucchini or bell peppers work well too. They’ll add nice texture and flavor!
Black Beans: Rinse them to reduce sodium. If you need a different option, feel free to swap black beans for pinto beans or chickpeas for variety.
Jalapeño: Adjust the heat based on your preference. If you want something milder, use bell peppers instead. For extra spice, try serrano peppers.
Cheese: While I love using a Mexican blend or cheddar, feel free to swap in pepper jack for a spicy kick or leave it out entirely for a lighter dish.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Cooked Through?
To ensure your chicken is safely cooked, use a meat thermometer! The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Season your chicken well with spices, and make sure it’s fully covered by the veggies and cheese to stay moist.
- Cook the packets for 25-30 minutes and check with a thermometer.
- If you don’t have one, cut into the chicken to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.
Also, don’t forget to let the steam escape when opening the packets to avoid burns. 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, drained and rinsed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh lime slices for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook in the oven. In total, you’ll be enjoying your delicious meal in approximately 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your tasty foil packets.
2. Mix the Spices:
In a bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This spice mix will give your chicken a flavorful kick!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, making sure they’re well coated. Then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the chicken to season them thoroughly.
4. Create the Foil Packets:
Tear 4 large pieces of aluminum foil. On each piece, layer half of the corn, black beans, diced bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and jalapeño slices. This adds lots of flavors and colors!
5. Add the Chicken:
Place one seasoned chicken breast right on top of the veggie layer on each foil piece. This way, the chicken will soak up the veggie goodness as it cooks.
6. Cheese it Up:
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken and vegetables. The melting cheese will enhance the dish, making it even more delicious!
7. Seal the Packets:
Carefully fold the foil over the chicken and veggies to make sealed packets. Ensure they’re tightly closed to keep all the flavors inside.
8. Bake:
Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake them in the oven for about 25-30 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through and nice and juicy!
9. Open With Care:
Once cooked, take the packets out of the oven (be careful of the hot steam when opening). Garnish with fresh lime slices and chopped cilantro for added brightness.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these colorful packets hot, either on their own or with warm tortillas or rice. Enjoy the burst of flavors!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy-to-make Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets! They’re perfect for a weeknight dinner or outdoor gatherings. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Chicken?
Yes, you can use either! If using frozen chicken, ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking, as frozen chicken can take longer to cook through. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method to speed up the process.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to customize! You can add zucchini, yellow squash, or even spinach for more greens. Just keep in mind that softer veggies may need a shorter cooking time to avoid becoming mushy.
Can I Prepare These Packets in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the foil packets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure they’re sealed well to prevent any air from getting in.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, cool them to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, and enjoy again!
