Chicken Pizza Packets

Italian Chicken Pizza Packets Recipe with Zucchini, Pepperoni, and Mozzarella Cheese

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Pizza Packets are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the flavors of pizza in a portable and easy-to-make package. These packets are filled with tender chicken, zucchini, pepperoni, green pepper, onion, and a blend of herbs and spices, all topped with cherry tomatoes and a mix of cheeses. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun camping meal, these Chicken Pizza Packets are sure to be a hit with the whole family.

History

Chicken Pizza Packets are a modern twist on the classic pizza recipe. By combining the flavors of pizza with the convenience of a foil packet, this recipe offers a unique and tasty way to enjoy a favorite dish. The idea of cooking food in foil packets has been around for centuries, as it allows for easy cooking and cleanup, making it a popular choice for outdoor cooking.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tbsp olive or vegetable oil
1 small zucchini, thinly sliced
16 slices of pepperoni
1 small green pepper, julienned
1 small onion, sliced
0.5 tsp dried oregano
0.5 tsp dried basil
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp garlic powder
0.25 tsp pepper
1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
0.5 cup shredded parmesan cheese

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine the first 11 ingredients.
Coat four pieces of heavy-duty (12" square) aluminum foil with nonstick cooking spray.
Place a quarter of the chicken mixture in the center of each piece.
Fold the foil around the mixture and seal tightly.
Grill, covered, over medium-high heat for 15-18 minutes or until the chicken juices run clear.
Carefully open each packet.
Sprinkle with tomatoes and cheeses.
Seal loosely and grill for an additional 2 minutes or until the cheese is melted.

Variations

Substitute the chicken with turkey or sausage for a different flavor.
Add mushrooms, olives, or spinach for extra vegetables.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to seal the foil packets tightly to prevent any juices from leaking out during cooking.

- Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. You can add or substitute any vegetables or meats you like.

- If grilling is not an option, these packets can also be baked in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.

- Serve the Chicken Pizza Packets with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chicken Pizza Packets with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling the Chicken Pizza Packets in foil packets helps to lock in the flavors and juices, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. You can add or substitute any vegetables or meats you like.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Chicken Pizza Packets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to grill. This makes them a great option for meal prep or camping trips.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Chicken Pizza Packets directly in the foil packets for a rustic and fun presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Chicken Pizza Packets with a light and refreshing white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Chicken Pizza Packets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the foil packets on a grill or in the oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Pizza Packets contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Pizza Packets contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken Pizza Packets contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken Pizza Packets contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Pizza Packets are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (pepperoni), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Chicken Pizza Packets are a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. They are a satisfying and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Chicken Pizza Packets are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the flavors of pizza in a portable and easy-to-make package. With a mix of tender chicken, vegetables, herbs, and cheeses, these packets are a satisfying and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed at home or on the go.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a rainy afternoon, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother. As I turned the pages, a picture of a delicious-looking dish caught my eye - Chicken Pizza Packets. I had never heard of such a thing before, but the combination of chicken, cheese, and pizza sauce wrapped up in a flaky pastry sounded absolutely divine.

I read through the recipe carefully, taking note of each ingredient and step. It seemed fairly simple, but I could tell that the end result would be a flavorful and satisfying meal. I decided right then and there that I had to give it a try.

The next day, I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. As I chopped the chicken, grated the cheese, and spooned out the pizza sauce, I couldn't help but think back to all the recipes I had learned over the years. Some had come from cookbooks, others from friends and family, and a few had even been passed down through generations.

But this recipe felt different somehow. It felt like a new adventure, a chance to try something completely out of the ordinary. And as I rolled out the pastry dough and filled it with the chicken mixture, I knew that I was onto something special.

When the Chicken Pizza Packets came out of the oven, golden brown and bubbling with melted cheese, I could hardly contain my excitement. I took a bite, and the flavors exploded in my mouth - savory chicken, tangy sauce, gooey cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky crust. It was a culinary masterpiece, if I did say so myself.

I couldn't wait to share my newfound recipe with my family and friends. I served the Chicken Pizza Packets at our next gathering, and they were a hit. Everyone raved about how delicious and unique they were, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had discovered something so wonderful.

As the years went by, the Chicken Pizza Packets became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made them for special occasions, weeknight dinners, and everything in between. Each time I prepared them, I remembered that rainy afternoon when I had stumbled upon the recipe in my grandmother's cookbook.

And now, as I pass the recipe on to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will enjoy making Chicken Pizza Packets as much as I have. May they bring you joy, comfort, and a sense of culinary adventure. And who knows, maybe one day you'll come across a recipe that captures your imagination just like this one did for me. Happy cooking!