Grilled Pesto Chicken Packets with Fresh Vegetables
This Grilled Pesto Chicken Packets with Fresh Vegetables recipe elevates simple outdoor cooking into a delightful culinary experience. Each foil packet is filled with tender chicken breast, vibrant Roma tomatoes, and fresh zucchini, all generously coated with aromatic basil pesto. Grilling them creates a steaming effect that locks in flavors and moisture, resulting in a juicy and satisfying meal. Perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners, these packets are not only easy to prepare but also make for a stress-free cleanup. Share with family and friends for a heartwarming meal that everyone will love!
N/A
Servings
200
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
boneless skinless chicken breast halves
4 (none)
Roma tomatoes
8 (cut into 1/2 inch slices)
small zucchini
4 (cut into 1/2 inch slices)
basil pesto
1/2 cup (premade)
Instructions
1
Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 375°F).
2
Prepare 8 sheets of heavy-duty foil, each measuring approximately 18 x 12 inches. If you prefer, you can use pre-made foil packets.
3
On each sheet of foil, place 1 boneless skinless chicken breast half.
4
Layer 2 slices of Roma tomatoes and 1 slice of zucchini on top of the chicken.
5
Generously spoon 2 tablespoons of basil pesto over each chicken breast and vegetables.
6
To seal the packets, fold the foil over the chicken and vegetables. Double fold the ends by folding them in 1/2 inch twice, ensuring the packets are securely closed while leaving space for steam to circulate.
7
Place the packets on the grill, positioning them about 4 to 5 inches from the heat source.
8
Grill for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken juices run clear and the chicken is cooked through.
9
To serve, carefully cut a large 'X' across the top of each foil packet to allow steam to escape.
10
Optional: Serve the chicken and vegetables directly from the foil for a rustic presentation or transfer to plates for serving.
Nutrition Information
6
Fat
10g
Carbs
40g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Grilled Pesto Chicken?
It is a flavorful dish where chicken breasts, tomatoes, and zucchini are coated in basil pesto and grilled inside foil packets to lock in moisture.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You will need four boneless skinless chicken breast halves, eight Roma tomatoes, four small zucchini, and half a cup of basil pesto.
How long does it take to grill the chicken packets?
The packets should be grilled for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken juices run clear and the meat is fully cooked.
What is the recommended grill temperature?
Preheat your grill to medium heat, which is approximately 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving of this Grilled Pesto Chicken contains approximately 200 calories.
What is the protein content of this dish?
This recipe is high in protein, providing 40 grams per serving.
How much fat is in this recipe?
There are 6 grams of fat per serving in this Grilled Pesto Chicken recipe.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
Each serving contains 10 grams of carbohydrates.
How should I prepare the tomatoes?
The Roma tomatoes should be cut into 1/2 inch thick slices before being added to the packets.
How should I prepare the zucchini?
The small zucchini should be cut into 1/2 inch thick slices.
How do I seal the foil packets correctly?
Fold the foil over the chicken and vegetables, then double fold the ends by folding them in 1/2 inch twice to ensure a secure seal.
What size should the foil sheets be?
You should use 8 sheets of heavy-duty foil, each measuring approximately 18 x 12 inches.
How much pesto should I use per packet?
Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of basil pesto over the chicken and vegetables in each packet.
Where should I place the packets on the grill?
Position the packets about 4 to 5 inches away from the heat source on the grill.
How should I open the packets after grilling?
Carefully cut a large X across the top of each foil packet to allow the hot steam to escape safely.
Can I serve the meal directly from the foil?
Yes, you can serve directly from the foil for a rustic presentation or transfer the contents to plates.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, because it is easy to prepare and has very little cleanup, it is an excellent choice for meal prep.
What type of pesto is recommended?
The recipe suggests using premade basil pesto for convenience.
Why is heavy-duty foil recommended?
Heavy-duty foil is less likely to tear on the grill and holds the steam better for even cooking.
Is this a healthy dinner option?
Yes, it is high in protein, relatively low in calories, and includes fresh vegetables, making it a healthy choice.
Can I use different vegetables in the packets?
While the recipe uses zucchini and tomatoes, you can customize it with other quick-cooking vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus.
How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it is opaque throughout, the juices run clear, and it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Is this recipe suitable for summer barbecues?
Absolutely, these foil packets are perfect for outdoor cooking and summer gatherings.
Can I make this recipe for a weeknight dinner?
Yes, the preparation is simple and the cooking time is relatively short, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Do I need to leave space in the foil packets?
Yes, leave a little space inside the packet for steam to circulate, which helps cook the chicken evenly.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can substitute thighs, but ensure you adjust the cooking time as they may take slightly longer than breast halves.
What makes the chicken juicy in this recipe?
The foil packets create a steaming effect that locks in both the natural juices of the chicken and the flavors of the pesto.
What should I do if I don't have Roma tomatoes?
You can substitute other tomato varieties, though Roma tomatoes are preferred because they hold their shape well when heated.
Can I use homemade pesto instead of premade?
Yes, homemade basil pesto is a delicious alternative to premade versions.
Is there any cleanup required after cooking?
One of the best benefits of foil packet meals is the stress-free cleanup, as you can simply discard the foil after eating.