These Grilled Crack Chicken Foil Packets are a fun and easy meal! They combine juicy chicken, creamy cheese, and tasty ranch seasoning all in one delicious little package.
Perfect for a cookout or a busy night, I love how everything cooks together—clean-up is a breeze! Plus, who doesn’t love food that’s cheesy and packed with flavor? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They cook quickly and stay moist. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too for a richer flavor!
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal as they become fluffy when cooked. If you want something quicker, baby potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes are great alternatives since they take less time to cook.
Cheeses: Cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness, but feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack or Gouda could be fun alternatives. You can use a dairy-free cream cheese for a healthier option.
Bacon bits: Pre-cooked bacon bits are super convenient. For a healthier twist, you could skip them or use turkey bacon instead. Crumbled feta or crispy chickpeas can also add texture and flavor.
Ranch seasoning mix: This is key for flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can mix your own using dried herbs like dill, parsley, or chives with a bit of garlic powder and onion powder.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking chicken in foil packets keeps it moist and tender, but monitoring the cooking time is crucial. Here’s how to make sure it’s cooked just right:
- Ensure the grill is at medium heat before placing the packets on it. This prevents burning the outside while the inside remains undercooked.
- Check the chicken after about 25 minutes. Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part.
- If the potatoes seem firm, they might need a bit longer. Open the packet carefully to avoid steam, and check the tenderness with a fork.
li>Let the packets rest for a couple of minutes before opening them. This extra time helps redistribute the juices!
How to Make Grilled Crack Chicken Foil Packets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, sliced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Aluminum foil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to cook on the grill. So, in just under an hour, you’ll have a tasty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure your foil packets cook evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Foil:
Next, prepare 4 large pieces of aluminum foil, measuring about 12×12 inches each. Make sure they are big enough to hold all the delicious ingredients without any leaks!
3. Make the Chicken Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, sliced potatoes, softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined, and the chicken and potatoes are coated in creamy seasoning goodness.
4. Fill the Foil Packets:
Evenly divide the chicken and potato mixture among the four pieces of prepared aluminum foil. Make sure each packet has a good amount so everyone gets a hearty serving!
5. Add the Toppings:
Now, sprinkle the tops of each packet with the bacon bits and shredded cheddar cheese. This will give your foil packs extra flavor and that gooey cheese we all love!
6. Seal the Packets:
Carefully fold the foil packets tightly to seal them. Make sure they are well enclosed so that nothing leaks out while cooking!
7. Grill the Packets:
Place your assembled foil packets directly on the grill. Cook them for about 25-30 minutes, checking occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. You can carefully open one to test for doneness if you like!
8. Cool and Open:
Once cooked, carefully remove the packets from the grill (they will be hot!). Let them cool for a few minutes before opening to prevent any steam burns.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish your grilled crack chicken foil packets with fresh chopped parsley. This adds a nice color and a burst of freshness! Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it first! For the safest and quickest thawing, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour. Make sure to pat the chicken dry before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent excess moisture in the packets.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you want to substitute cream cheese, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter option. Both will provide a creamy texture, but keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different. If you’re looking for dairy-free alternatives, cashew cream is a great choice!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the microwave or an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also re-grill them in foil for the best texture!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Foil Packets?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini alongside the chicken and potatoes. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes so they cook evenly. If you add more veggies, you may want to increase the olive oil and seasoning to keep everything flavorful!
