The first burst of heat from the grill mingles with the sweet and smoky scent of barbecue sauce, instantly transporting me to summer cookouts and lazy weekends. When the days grow longer and outdoor gatherings are in full swing, there’s nothing quite like Grilled BBQ Chicken Foil Packets with Peppers and Onions to elevate your dinner game. This dish brilliantly combines tender, juicy chicken with vibrant veggies wrapped snugly in foil, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor.
One rainy afternoon, seeking comfort and simplicity, I created this recipe, inspired by my desire to bring a touch of the outdoors into my kitchen. With just a few fresh ingredients and minimal clean-up required, these foil packets prove that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re looking to impress friends at a backyard barbecue or simply want to enjoy a hassle-free weeknight dinner, these packets are a sure-fire way to wow your taste buds and keep dinner interesting. Ready to fire up your grill? Let’s dive into this easy and satisfying recipe that guarantees smiles all around!
Why choose Grilled BBQ Chicken Foil Packets?
Simplicity reigns: These foil packets are incredibly easy to prepare, needing only 10 minutes of your time.
Flavor explosion: The combination of tangy barbecue sauce, smoky grilled chicken, and colorful veggies makes each bite a delight.
No clean-up hassle: Cooking everything in foil allows for minimal dishes and quick clean-up, perfect for busy weeknights.
Impress guests: Serve these at your next gathering for a visually appealing and mouth-watering dish that’s sure to impress.
Versatile options: You can customize the veggies or even swap the chicken for other proteins, enhancing your culinary creativity.
Healthy indulgence: Packed with lean protein and colorful veggies, these packets are a delicious yet nutritious meal option!
This recipe uniquely combines ease with vibrant flavors, making it a family favorite. If you’re looking for other great options, check out my Ultimate Grilling Guide!
Grilled BBQ Chicken Foil Packets Ingredients
• Get ready for a flavor-packed meal!
For the Chicken
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – A lean protein that stays juicy when grilled or baked.
- Barbecue sauce – Select your favorite for a flavor that shines through.
For the Veggies
- Bell peppers – Use a mix of colors for a vibrant presentation and sweetness.
- Red onion – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the overall flavor.
For Seasoning
- Extra-virgin olive oil – Enhances the veggies’ natural flavors and prevents sticking.
- Kosher salt – Amplifies the taste and balances the flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper – Adds a subtle kick and enhances the dish’s complexity.
Whether you’re crafting these grilled BBQ chicken foil packets for an outdoor feast or an indoor cozy dinner, each ingredient plays a vital role in bringing this delightful recipe to life!
How to Make Grilled BBQ Chicken Foil Packets
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Cut the Foil: Start by cutting four pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil into 16-inch lengths. This will ensure you have enough room to fold and seal each packet properly.
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Prepare the Chicken: Lay a boneless, skinless chicken breast in the center of each piece of foil. Divide the sliced bell peppers and red onion into four portions and sprinkle one around each chicken breast for vibrant flavor.
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Add the Sauce: Brush each chicken breast generously with barbecue sauce. Drizzle the veggies with extra-virgin olive oil, then sprinkle everything with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to elevate the taste.
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Seal the Packets: Bring the short edges of the foil together, rolling them down toward the chicken. Scrunch up the ends tightly to ensure the packets are sealed, keeping all those delicious juices inside.
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Grill the Packets: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the foil packets directly on the grill, close the lid, and cook for about 25 minutes, turning once until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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Bake if Needed: If you prefer to bake, place the packets on a baking sheet and pop them in an oven preheated to 400°F. Bake until the chicken is cooked through and reaches 165°F, which should take around 25 minutes.
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Serve: Carefully unwrap each foil packet before serving. For an extra touch of flavor, brush each chicken breast with more barbecue sauce, and season with additional kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Grilled BBQ Chicken Foil Packets Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these packets to suit your taste!
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a zesty heat that takes your meal to the next level. It’s a fun twist for those who love a bit of spice!
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Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic boost. Their fragrant notes pair beautifully with the smoky flavor of the chicken and enhance the overall taste.
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Sweet & Savory: Include chunks of pineapple or peach slices for a sweet contrast to the barbecue sauce. The caramelization adds a touch of summer and elevates the flavor profile wonderfully.
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Vegetable Swap: Substitute bell peppers with seasonal veggies like zucchini or asparagus. This not only offers a new taste but also keeps the dish fresh and exciting each time you make it!
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Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar) over the veggies before sealing. As it melts, it will create a creamy, savory experience that makes each bite irresistible.
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Whole Grain Option: Use skinless boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor and juicier texture. They work perfectly for a heartier meal that’ll leave you satisfied.
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Southern Twist: Replace the barbecue sauce with a homemade mustard-vinegar sauce for a tangy Southern style. This variation introduces a whole new flavor experience while still being easy to prepare.
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Vegan Alternative: Swap out the chicken for marinated firm tofu or chickpeas and use vegan barbecue sauce for a plant-based delight. You won’t believe how deliciously satisfying this option can be!
Expert Tips for Grilled BBQ Chicken Foil Packets
Choose Quality Chicken: Select fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts to ensure maximum juiciness and flavor in your grilled BBQ chicken foil packets.
Sealing Technique: Make sure the foil packets are tightly sealed to prevent any leakage. This helps to trap steam and keeps your chicken moist and tender.
Vegetable Variability: Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on seasons or personal tastes. Just avoid watery veggies, which can dilute flavor.
Temperature Check: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F to ensure safety and perfection.
Avoid Overcooking: Since cooking times can vary, keep an eye on your packets. Overcooked chicken can dry out, so check a few minutes early to avoid disappointment.
Serving Suggestions: Pair these foil packets with a refreshing salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled BBQ Chicken Foil Packets
Fridge: Store any leftover grilled BBQ chicken foil packets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you want to prepare in advance, individual foil packets can be frozen. Wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the packets in the fridge overnight. Heat on the grill or in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15–20 minutes.
Serving Tip: For the best flavor, brush grilled BBQ chicken with additional barbecue sauce before serving!
What to Serve with Grilled BBQ Chicken Foil Packets?
Create a delightful spread that enhances the flavors and complements the experience of your BBQ chicken foil packets.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch of fresh cabbage and carrots adds a refreshing contrast to the smoky chicken.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy bread brushed with garlic butter soaks up all the yummy juices from the chicken and veggies. Enjoy each bite, relishing the flavors.
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Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, sweet corn brings a pop of sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with tangy BBQ.
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Cucumber Tomato Salad: This light salad offers a crisp, cool bite with tangy dressing, balancing the richness of the chicken.
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Potato Salad: Creamy and hearty, potato salad adds a comforting touch, perfect for summer gatherings.
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Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade sharpens the palette and complements the rich flavors of the BBQ chicken beautifully.
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Brownies: End on a sweet note with fudgy brownies for a rich dessert that rounds out your meal. Enjoy this indulgent treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled BBQ Chicken Foil Packets with Peppers and Onions are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the chicken breasts and prepare the veggies (sliced bell peppers and onions) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the prepped ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. When it’s time to cook, assemble the foil packets as directed, adding the barbecue sauce before sealing. For added efficiency, you could even create the packets and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Just remember to cook them right from the fridge to ensure that you get tender and juicy chicken and flavorful veggies that are just as delicious as if you had made them fresh! Enjoy the time-saving benefits for busy weeknights!
Grilled BBQ Chicken Foil Packets with Veggies Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select bell peppers for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for bell peppers that are firm and brightly colored. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles. The peppers should feel heavy for their size, indicating they’re juicy and fresh. Depending on your preference, you can choose a mix of red, yellow, and green peppers for an eye-catching presentation!
How should I store leftover Grilled BBQ Chicken Foil Packets?
To keep your leftovers fresh, transfer any uneaten grilled BBQ chicken foil packets to an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re cooled to room temperature before you refrigerate them to maintain their texture and flavor!
Can I freeze these foil packets, and if so, how?
Very! Freezing is a fantastic way to have a delicious meal ready to go. To freeze, wrap each filled foil packet tightly in aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. These can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and grill or bake as instructed!
What if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly in the packets?
If you find your chicken isn’t cooking evenly, it could be due to packet placement on the grill or oven. Make sure the packets are on a consistent heat source, and consider flipping them halfway through cooking. Additionally, ensure the chicken breasts are of equal thickness for even cooking. A meat thermometer is your best friend here, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F!
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Certainly! This recipe can be made gluten-free by selecting a gluten-free barbecue sauce. Be cautious with ingredients if you have allergies, especially to the chicken or select sauces. If you’re cooking for pets, keep in mind that dogs can have chicken in moderation but avoid the barbecue sauce, as it often contains ingredients that could be harmful to them.
Can I use other proteins besides chicken?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other proteins like salmon, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as seafood will cook faster than chicken. You want to ensure whatever protein you choose is cooked to the appropriate internal temperature for safety and deliciousness!
Grilled BBQ Chicken Foil Packets with Peppers and Onions Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut four pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil into 16-inch lengths.
- Lay a boneless, skinless chicken breast in the center of each piece of foil and sprinkle sliced bell peppers and red onion around each chicken.
- Brush each chicken breast with barbecue sauce and drizzle the veggies with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
- Seal the foil packets tightly by rolling the edges down toward the chicken and scrunching the ends.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and place the foil packets on it, cooking for about 25 minutes, turning once.
- If baking, place the packets on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 25 minutes.
- Unwrap each foil packet and brush with more barbecue sauce before serving.
