Savory Barbecue Chicken Foil Packets
Elevate your grilling game with these Savory Barbecue Chicken Foil Packets, where juicy chicken breast comes together with sweet corn and zesty bell peppers, all smothered in a rich barbecue sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this dish allows for easy cleanup and customizable flavors. Packed with protein and vibrant vegetables, these foil packets are a delicious way to enjoy a hearty meal while soaking up all the savory barbecue goodness.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil
4 sheets (12x18 inches each)
Chicken breast halves
4 (1 to 1 1/4 lbs.)
Barbecue sauce
1 cup (your favorite brand or homemade)
Frozen whole kernel corn
10 ounces (or 15 1/4 ounces canned, drained)
Green bell pepper
1/2 cup (chopped)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
2
Prepare 4 sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each measuring 12x18 inches.
3
Place one chicken breast half in the center of each foil sheet. Pour a generous amount of barbecue sauce over each piece of chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated.
4
Top the chicken with an equal portion of frozen corn and chopped green bell pepper to add texture and flavor.
5
Fold the sides of the foil over the chicken, then double fold the top and ends tightly to create a sealed packet, leaving a bit of space inside for heat circulation.
6
Arrange the packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
7
Once done, carefully open the packets (be cautious of steam) and serve with additional barbecue sauce if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Barbecue Chicken Foil Packets?
They are a convenient and delicious meal consisting of chicken breast, corn, and bell peppers topped with barbecue sauce and cooked inside a sealed foil packet.
How long does it take to bake these chicken foil packets?
The packets should be baked in the oven for 18 to 22 minutes.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) for this recipe.
What size of aluminum foil is needed for each packet?
You should use heavy-duty aluminum foil sheets measuring approximately 12x18 inches each.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be substituted, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they reach the safe internal temperature.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I use canned corn instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use 15 1/4 ounces of canned corn; just make sure to drain it before adding it to the packets.
How do I seal the foil packets correctly?
Fold the sides of the foil over the chicken, then double fold the top and ends tightly, leaving a little space inside for heat to circulate.
What type of barbecue sauce is recommended?
You can use your favorite store-bought brand or a homemade barbecue sauce.
Can I use different colored bell peppers?
Absolutely, while the recipe calls for green bell pepper, red, yellow, or orange peppers work just as well.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, these packets are packed with protein and vibrant vegetables, making them a nutritious and balanced meal.
Can I cook these foil packets on a grill?
Yes, these packets are perfect for grilling over medium-high heat until the chicken is cooked through.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to provide 4 servings.
Can I prepare the packets in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the packets ahead of time and keep them refrigerated until you are ready to bake.
Should I be careful when opening the packets?
Yes, use caution when opening the foil as hot steam will escape which can cause burns.
What should I serve with these chicken foil packets?
They go great with a side of rice, a fresh green salad, or extra barbecue sauce for dipping.
Do I need to grease the aluminum foil?
The recipe doesn't require it, but using heavy-duty foil or a light spray of cooking oil can help prevent sticking.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
It is best to thaw the chicken completely before assembly to ensure even cooking within the specified timeframe.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I add other vegetables to the packets?
Yes, vegetables like sliced onions, zucchini, or black beans make great additions to these foil packets.
Is this recipe easy to clean up?
Yes, one of the best parts of foil packet meals is the minimal cleanup since the entire meal is cooked in the foil.
Can I use regular aluminum foil?
Heavy-duty foil is recommended to prevent tearing, but if you only have regular foil, you may want to double-layer it.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The dish is gluten-free as long as the barbecue sauce you choose is certified gluten-free.
How much corn should I use per packet?
Distribute 10 ounces of frozen corn equally among the four packets.
How much bell pepper goes in each packet?
Divide 1/2 cup of chopped green bell pepper equally among the four packets.
Can I use a different protein?
While this recipe is for chicken, you could use shrimp or pork chops, though cooking times will vary.
Do I need a baking sheet?
Yes, arranging the packets on a baking sheet makes it easier to move them in and out of the oven safely.
Can I add spices to the chicken?
Yes, feel free to season the chicken with salt, pepper, or garlic powder before adding the barbecue sauce.
Can I make this for just one person?
Yes, the recipe is easily scalable; you can make just a single packet by using one chicken breast and a quarter of the other ingredients.
Why leave space inside the foil packet?
Leaving a bit of space allows the heat to circulate and creates steam, which helps cook the chicken and vegetables evenly.