These Grilled Crack Chicken Foil Packets are packed with juicy chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty ranch. They’re easy to make and super tasty, perfect for a fun dinner outdoors!
Honestly, who can resist cheese and ranch combined? Plus, clean-up is a breeze when you cook in foil. I love serving mine with a side of veggies for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. If you want a more flavorful option, try thighs – they stay juicier during cooking. You can also use rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.
Potatoes: I prefer using Yukon Gold for their buttery texture, but Russets or red potatoes work too. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try cauliflower florets instead!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese gives a nice sharp taste, but feel free to get creative! Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick, while mozzarella offers a milder flavor. You can mix and match cheeses if you’re feeling adventurous.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the dish. If you need a dairy-free option, try using vegan cream cheese or cashew cream. Greek yogurt can also substitute for a lighter version.
Ranch Seasoning: It’s the star flavor here! Homemade ranch seasoning can be easily made with dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder if you prefer a more natural mix.
How Do You Prepare the Perfect Foil Packets?
Creating foil packets might seem tricky, but it’s quite simple once you get the hang of it! Make sure to use heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent tearing. Here’s how:
- Cut large sheets of foil, enough to fold over and seal all sides.
- Lightly grease the center with olive oil or cooking spray to help prevent sticking.
- Ensure the packets are tightly sealed to keep the steam in. This helps cook everything evenly.
- Don’t forget to leave some space inside for the ingredients to steam and expand.
Always be careful when opening the packets as steam can escape and burn. Enjoy your meal fresh from the grill!
How to Make Grilled Crack Chicken Foil Packets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 2 chicken breasts, cubed
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
For Greasing:
- Olive oil or cooking spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to cook on the grill. Overall, you’ll need around 40 minutes for a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for enjoying outdoors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get the Grill Ready:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. It’s important to have it hot so that the chicken cooks evenly and the potatoes get nice and tender.
2. Prepare the Foil Packets:
Take large sheets of aluminum foil and lay them out on a clean surface. Lightly grease the center of each sheet with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will make it easier to enjoy your meal later!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts, sliced potatoes, softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together well so that the chicken and potatoes are fully coated with the seasonings and cream cheese.
4. Fill the Packets:
Divide the chicken and potato mixture evenly among the aluminum foil sheets, placing it in the center of each sheet. Make sure to leave some space around the edges so you can fold the packets closed.
5. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle crumbled bacon over each filled packet and then top with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese. Who doesn’t love extra cheese?
6. Seal the Packets:
Carefully fold the sides of the foil over the chicken and potatoes to create a tightly sealed packet. This helps keep all the steam inside during cooking, which makes everything super flavorful.
7. Grill and Cook:
Place the prepared foil packets on the grill, close the lid, and let them cook for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are nice and tender.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When the cooking time is up, carefully open each foil packet (watch out for that hot steam!). If you like, you can garnish with sliced green onions for some color and extra flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious, comforting flavors of your grilled crack chicken foil packets!
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken breast with diced turkey, pork, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly; for example, thinly sliced pork may cook faster, while tofu may require less grilling time.
How Do I Adjust for Different Potatoes?
If you’re using different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes or red potatoes, just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly. Sweet potatoes typically cook a bit quicker, so check for tenderness after about 20 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Can I Make These Foil Packets in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the foil packets on a baking sheet for about 30-40 minutes. Just ensure that the packets are tightly sealed to trap the steam for even cooking.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Foil Packets?
Store any leftover grilled packets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the packets back on the grill for about 10 minutes or microwave until heated through, making sure to open the foil slightly to allow steam to escape.
