Creamy Chicken and Veggie Pasta Foil Packet with Pesto Delight
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Creamy Chicken and Veggie Pasta Foil Packet with Pesto Delight, a one-dish meal that's perfect for outdoor grilling or a cozy night in. This recipe combines al dente short pasta, tender grilled chicken, and a bounty of fresh vegetables, all enveloped in a luscious alfredo-pesto sauce. The vibrant sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor, while the gooey melted cheese on top creates a comforting finish. Ideal for family gatherings or meal prepping, each foil packet seals in the goodness, making clean-up a breeze and cooking simple. Gather your loved ones, fire up the grill, and savor the joy of this scrumptious dish that brings together taste and convenience in one package.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
short pasta
5 cups (cooked (penne, ziti, elbow, small shell, etc.))
alfredo sauce
1 cup (homemade or store-bought)
pesto sauce
1 tablespoon (homemade or store-bought)
sun-dried tomato
1/4 cup (chopped)
grilled chicken
2 cups (cut into strips (your own or pre-packaged thawed))
vegetables
3 cups (your choice (mushrooms, zucchini, broccoli florets, peppers, cauliflower florets, etc.))
pepper
to taste (ground)
cheese (mozzarella, gouda, cheddar or havarti)
1 1/2 cups (diced)
Instructions
1
Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2
Lay out two large squares of aluminum foil on a work surface and cover each with a sheet of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked short pasta, alfredo sauce, pesto sauce, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, grilled chicken strips, and your choice of vegetables. Season with pepper to taste, mixing well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
4
Carefully spoon the pasta and chicken mixture onto the center of the parchment-lined foil squares, dividing it evenly between the two packets.
5
Lay another square of aluminum foil on top of each mound of the pasta mixture, then seal the edges tightly by folding them over a couple of times to create a well-sealed packet.
6
Place the foil packets onto the preheated grill and cook for approximately 10 minutes.
7
After 10 minutes, carefully open the papillote to let the steam escape. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese (or your cheese of choice) evenly over the contents and close the packet again, allowing it to cook for an additional 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8
Remove from the grill, let cool slightly, and serve immediately, enjoying the wonderful aroma and flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is called Creamy Chicken and Veggie Pasta Foil Packet with Pesto Delight.
What type of pasta is recommended for this recipe?
Short pasta like penne, ziti, elbow, or small shells should be used.
Should the pasta be cooked before assembly?
Yes, the 5 cups of short pasta should be cooked before being added to the mixture.
What kind of sauce is used as the base?
The base is a combination of 1 cup of alfredo sauce and 1 tablespoon of pesto sauce.
Can I use store-bought sauces?
Yes, you can use either homemade or store-bought alfredo and pesto sauces.
How much chicken is required?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of grilled chicken cut into strips.
What type of vegetables work best?
You can use your choice of vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, broccoli florets, peppers, or cauliflower florets.
How should the sun-dried tomatoes be prepared?
The sun-dried tomatoes should be chopped, and you will need 1/4 cup.
What kind of cheese can I use for the topping?
You can use mozzarella, gouda, cheddar, or havarti cheese.
How much cheese is needed?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 cups of diced cheese.
What is the primary cooking method?
The primary cooking method is grilling the ingredients inside foil packets.
What grill temperature is needed?
The grill should be preheated to medium heat.
Why is parchment paper used inside the foil?
Parchment paper is used on top of the aluminum foil to prevent the food from sticking.
How many foil packets does this recipe yield?
This specific recipe is designed to be divided into two large foil packets.
How do I season this dish?
You should season the pasta and chicken mixture with ground pepper to taste.
How long do the packets cook on the grill?
Initially, the packets cook for 10 minutes, followed by an additional 3 to 5 minutes after adding cheese.
When do I add the cheese to the foil packet?
Add the cheese after the initial 10 minutes of grilling once you have opened the packet to let steam escape.
How do I seal the foil packets?
Seal the edges tightly by folding them over a couple of times to create a well-sealed container.
What should I do after the cheese is melted?
Remove the packets from the grill, let them cool slightly, and serve immediately.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it is described as ideal for meal prepping or family gatherings due to its convenience.
Can I use pre-packaged grilled chicken?
Yes, you can use your own grilled chicken or pre-packaged thawed chicken strips.
What is the total amount of vegetables used?
The recipe calls for 3 cups of your choice of vegetables.
What is a 'papillote' in this context?
A papillote refers to the foil packet that seals in the steam and flavors during the cooking process.
Is this considered a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is a complete one-dish meal that combines protein, vegetables, and pasta.
How does this recipe simplify cleanup?
Because everything is cooked and served in foil packets, cleanup is very minimal.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne, ziti, or macaroni will work well.
What does the pesto add to the dish?
The pesto adds a vibrant, herbal flavor that complements the creamy alfredo sauce.
How do I know the dish is finished?
The dish is ready when the contents are heated through and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
Can I cook this indoors?
While designed for the grill, the description notes it is also perfect for a cozy night in, implying it could be adapted for oven use.
What is the texture of the cheese?
The cheese should be gooey, melted, and bubbly for a comforting finish.