BBQ Chicken and Cheddar Foil Packet Dinner

BBQ Chicken and Cheddar Foil Packet Dinner Recipe | USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

The BBQ Chicken and Cheddar Foil Packet Dinner is a delightful, easy-to-make recipe that combines the smoky flavors of barbecue sauce with the creamy, sharp taste of cheddar cheese. This dish is perfect for those who love the convenience of a meal that requires minimal cleanup, making it an ideal choice for both busy weeknights at home and outdoor adventures like camping. The combination of tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and crisp bell peppers, all wrapped up in a foil packet, creates a balanced meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.

History

The concept of cooking food in foil packets has roots in various cultures and has been a method used for centuries. It's a technique that allows for the steaming and grilling of food simultaneously, locking in flavors and moisture. The BBQ Chicken and Cheddar Foil Packet Dinner is a modern take on this age-old method, incorporating ingredients and flavors that are beloved in contemporary American cuisine. The recipe has evolved over time, with variations including different types of meat, vegetables, and seasonings to cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

3 tbsp barbecue sauce
4 small boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 1 lb (454 g))
2 small unpeeled red potatoes, thinly sliced
1 red or green bell pepper, seeded and sliced
1 green onion, finely chopped
0.25 tsp salt
0.13 tsp black pepper
1.5 cups shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Place a sheet of foil, approximately 12 x 12 inches, on a work surface.
Spoon about 1 tsp of the barbecue sauce in the center of the foil sheet.
Place one chicken breast half over the barbecue sauce and spread another teaspoon of sauce over the chicken.
Top with a quarter of the potato, bell pepper, and onion.
Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper.
Fold the foil in half to cover the contents; make narrow folds along the edges to seal.
Repeat with the remaining ingredients to assemble three more packets.
Place the packets on a baking sheet and bake for 35 minutes.
Open the foil packets with scissors and carefully pull back the edges (contents may be very hot).
Sprinkle a quarter of the cheese over the top of each chicken breast half and return to the oven, unsealed, for 2 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
With a spatula, transfer the contents of each packet onto individual serving plates, if desired.

For camping or outdoor grill

Preheat the charcoal or grill and place the packets on the grill.
Cook until the chicken is cooked through.

Variations

There are numerous ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Some variations include:
Using sweet potatoes instead of red potatoes for a different flavor profile and added nutrients.
Adding other vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes, for variety.
Swapping the chicken for another protein, such as salmon or tofu, to cater to different dietary preferences.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your BBQ Chicken and Cheddar Foil Packet Dinner turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use heavy-duty foil to prevent tears and leaks during cooking.

- Cut the vegetables into thin, even slices to ensure they cook through at the same rate as the chicken.

- Spread the barbecue sauce evenly on the chicken to maximize flavor.

- Seal the foil packets well to keep the steam inside for tender, juicy chicken.

- Let the packets rest for a few minutes after cooking before opening to avoid steam burns and to let the juices redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it can also be served with a side salad for added freshness or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. For a low-carb option, consider serving it with a side of steamed or grilled vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique for this recipe is baking or grilling in foil packets. This method not only simplifies cleanup but also ensures that the ingredients cook evenly and retain their moisture and flavor. It's important to seal the packets well and to cook them at the right temperature to achieve the best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're missing an ingredient or want to make a substitution, consider the following:

- Any barbecue sauce can be used, but for a healthier option, choose one with low sugar content.

- If you don't have cheddar cheese, any meltable cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, can be used.

- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a few slices of jalapeño to the packets.

Make Ahead Tips

These foil packets can be assembled up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This makes them a great option for meal prep or for taking on a camping trip. Just be sure to keep them chilled to prevent spoilage.

Presentation Ideas

To make this dish even more appealing, consider serving it directly in the opened foil packets for a rustic, campfire feel. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This BBQ Chicken and Cheddar Foil Packet Dinner pairs well with light, refreshing beverages such as iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp white wine. For beer lovers, a pale ale with citrus notes complements the smoky barbecue flavors beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, transfer the contents to an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of the BBQ Chicken and Cheddar Foil Packet Dinner contains approximately 300-350 calories, making it a calorie-efficient option for those monitoring their intake. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary source being the red potatoes. A serving of this recipe contains approximately 15-20 grams of carbohydrates. The exact amount can vary based on the size of the potatoes and the type of barbecue sauce used, as some sauces may contain added sugars.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the cheddar cheese and, to a lesser extent, the chicken. The use of reduced-fat cheddar cheese helps to keep the total fat content moderate, with each serving containing about 10-15 grams of fat. Choosing a lean cut of chicken breast also helps minimize the saturated fat content, making this a heart-healthy option.

Proteins

This foil packet dinner is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the chicken breast. Each serving provides approximately 25-30 grams of protein, making it a satisfying meal that supports muscle growth and repair. The cheese adds a small additional amount of protein as well.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin C from the bell peppers, Vitamin A from the green onions, and potassium from the potatoes. The chicken contributes B vitamins, essential for energy metabolism, and the cheese offers calcium for bone health.

Alergens

The primary allergen present in this recipe is dairy, due to the cheddar cheese. Individuals with a dairy allergy or intolerance should consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative. Additionally, some barbecue sauces may contain gluten or soy, so it's important to choose a sauce that meets your dietary needs.

Summary

Overall, the BBQ Chicken and Cheddar Foil Packet Dinner is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a relatively low-calorie option that can fit into various dietary plans, with considerations for allergens and dietary restrictions.

Summary

The BBQ Chicken and Cheddar Foil Packet Dinner is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion, from a simple family dinner to an outdoor adventure. With its easy preparation, customizable ingredients, and minimal cleanup, it's sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that will always hold a special place in my heart. It was a warm summer evening, and I had invited some friends over for a backyard barbecue. As I was preparing the ingredients for the usual grilled chicken, I realized I wanted to try something different. I wanted to impress my guests with a new and exciting dish that would leave them coming back for more.

I remembered hearing about a recipe for BBQ Chicken and Cheddar Foil Packet Dinner from one of my dear friends who had recently visited a cooking class. She raved about how delicious and easy it was to make, so I decided to give it a try. I gathered all the necessary ingredients - chicken breasts, barbecue sauce, cheddar cheese, bell peppers, onions, and some seasonings - and got to work.

I started by marinating the chicken in a tangy barbecue sauce that I had made from scratch. I let it sit for a while to absorb all the flavors before moving on to the next step. I then sliced up some colorful bell peppers and onions to add a burst of freshness and crunch to the dish.

As I assembled the foil packets, I found myself getting lost in the rhythm of the process. I carefully layered the marinated chicken, vegetables, and cheddar cheese on top of each other, making sure to seal the packets tightly to lock in all the delicious flavors. The anticipation of how it would turn out was almost palpable in the air.

I placed the foil packets on the grill, making sure to position them over the hot coals for even cooking. The scent of the barbecue sauce and melting cheese filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. I couldn't wait to see the final result and share it with my friends.

After a few minutes, I carefully opened one of the foil packets to check on the progress of the dish. The chicken was perfectly cooked and juicy, the vegetables were tender yet still crisp, and the cheddar cheese had melted into a gooey, delicious mess. I couldn't help but let out a little squeal of delight - it looked even better than I had imagined.

When my friends arrived and saw the foil packets sizzling on the grill, their eyes lit up with excitement. They couldn't believe I had come up with such a creative and mouthwatering dish. As we sat down to eat, the conversation was filled with compliments and requests for the recipe. I couldn't have been happier with how it all turned out.

From that day on, BBQ Chicken and Cheddar Foil Packet Dinner became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for a cozy night in with my husband. Every time I made it, it brought back the fond memories of that summer evening when I discovered this delicious recipe.

As the years went by, I continued to tweak and perfect the recipe, adding my own unique twists and flavors to make it truly my own. The joy of sharing this dish with loved ones never faded, and it always brought a smile to their faces.

Now, as I sit here reflecting on that fateful day when I first made BBQ Chicken and Cheddar Foil Packet Dinner, I can't help but feel grateful for the journey it has taken me on. It has been a delicious and rewarding adventure, filled with love, laughter, and of course, plenty of good food. And I know that as long as I have this recipe in my arsenal, there will always be a place at the table for friends and family to gather and enjoy a meal made with love.