Grilled Crack Chicken Foil Packets are a fun and tasty meal! These packets are filled with juicy chicken, creamy ranch, and cheesy goodness, all wrapped up for easy grilling.
You can toss these on the grill and let them cook while you relax! They are perfect for a busy weeknight and taste amazing. I love adding a little extra cheese for that melty goodness—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer dark meat, you can use thighs. You can also substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or red potatoes since they hold their shape well. If you need a low-carb alternative, cauliflower can be used, but it may cook faster so keep an eye on it.
Ranch seasoning: This adds a lot of flavor. If you’re out, mix equal parts garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and some salt to make a quick substitute. Homemade is always nice!
Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice sharp flavor, but you can swap it for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick! Vegan cheese could work well too if you want to keep it dairy-free.
Bacon bits: For a healthier option, use turkey bacon or omit it altogether. You can also try crispy chickpeas for both protein and crunch!
How Can I Ensure My Packets Cook Evenly?
Cooking in foil packets can be super simple, but the key is making sure everything cooks evenly. Here are some tips:
- Cut the potatoes thinly for faster cooking. Aim for about 1/8 inch.
- Dice the chicken into smaller, even pieces to help them cook through at the same rate.
- When sealing your packets, try to make sure there’s enough space for steam but that they’re tight enough to trap it in.
- Flip the packets halfway through the cooking time to avoid hot spots on the grill.
Remember, the recommended cooking time is about 25-30 minutes, but always check the chicken is fully cooked (165°F) and the potatoes are soft before serving!
How to Make Grilled Crack Chicken Foil Packets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)
- 4 medium-sized potatoes (thinly sliced)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, optional for garnish)
For the Packets:
- Aluminum foil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes for grilling. So, in total, you’ll be ready to enjoy your meal in about 45 minutes! Perfect for a tasty outdoor dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will get it nice and hot for cooking the chicken and potatoes evenly.
2. Prepare the Foil Packets:
Get your aluminum foil ready! Tear off large pieces of foil, about 12×18 inches each, and lay them flat on a clean surface. This is where all the good ingredients will go!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, thinly sliced potatoes, ranch seasoning mix, olive oil, and softened cream cheese. Mix everything together until the chicken and potatoes are nicely coated and the mixture looks well combined.
4. Assemble the Packets:
Take a generous portion of the chicken and potato mixture and place it right in the center of each foil piece. Don’t be shy, make sure you have enough in each packet!
5. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits over each packet. This is what makes it “Crack Chicken” delicious!
6. Fold the Packets:
Carefully fold the sides of the foil over the mixture to create a secure packet. Make sure there are no gaps at the top or sides so the steam stays inside while cooking.
7. Grill the Packets:
Place the foil packets on the grill and cook for about 25-30 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When the time is up, use caution to open the packets (watch out for steam!). If you like, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious grilled crack chicken foil packets hot off the grill!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s crucial to thaw it first! Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight for the best results. You can also use the quick method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before dicing and mixing it with the other ingredients.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning on hand, you can create a simple substitute by mixing equal parts of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit of salt. Dried herbs like parsley and chives can also add a nice flavor. About 2 tablespoons of your substitute mix should work well!
How to Store Leftover Foil Packets?
Store any leftover contents in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to reheat, you can do so on the grill or in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes. Just make sure to keep an eye on it to prevent drying out!
Can I Add Veggies to the Foil Packets?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, corn, or broccoli, to the packets. Just be sure to cut them into small, even pieces so they cook thoroughly with the chicken and potatoes. Adjust the cooking time slightly if you add denser vegetables, like carrots.
