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Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 66 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Description

Delicious and easy-to-make Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets packed with flavorful chicken breasts, black beans, corn, bell peppers, and salsa, all grilled or baked to perfection. Topped with melted cheese and customizable with vibrant garnishes like sour cream, guacamole, and jalapeños, this meal is perfect for a quick, healthy dinner.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (7–8 oz each)
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
  • ¾ cup salsa or 10 oz can of Rotel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies, drained
  • ½ cup shredded Mexican cheese blend or Monterey Jack

Optional Toppings

  • Sour cream
  • Guacamole
  • Black olives
  • Jalapeños
  • Cilantro
  • Tomatoes

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the foil packets, ensuring a perfect sear and even cooking.
  2. Prepare Foil Packets: Cut four large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each about 10 inches by 10 inches. Spray the center of each piece with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  3. Add Chicken and Season: Place one chicken breast in the center of each foil piece, then season each with chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste for that classic Santa Fe flavor.
  4. Assemble the Packets: Evenly distribute black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, and salsa on top of the chicken breasts on each foil piece.
  5. Seal the Packets: Fold the foil over the ingredients and carefully seal the edges to form a secure packet that will lock in moisture and flavors during cooking.
  6. Grill the Packets: Place the packets on the grill with the vegetable side down, cook for 10 minutes, then flip and grill for an additional 10 to 12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. Alternative Baking Method: If not grilling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through.
  8. Add Cheese and Melt: Carefully open each packet, sprinkle shredded Mexican cheese blend or Monterey Jack over the chicken, then return the packets open to the grill for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Serve and Garnish: Remove the packets from heat, top with your choice of optional garnishes such as sour cream, guacamole, black olives, jalapeños, cilantro, and tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
  10. Enjoy the Meal: Serve the packets over a bed of cilantro lime rice or with warm corn or flour tortillas for a complete and satisfying Santa Fe-inspired dinner experience.

Notes

  • Ensure chicken breasts are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
  • Heavy-duty aluminum foil is recommended to prevent tearing during cooking.
  • Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee it is safe to eat.
  • Customize the heat level by adding more chili powder or jalapeños according to your taste.
  • The packets can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to grill or bake.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/santa-fe-chicken-foil-packets-recipe/