Description
These BBQ Chicken Foil Packs are a quick and flavorful meal perfect for grilling or baking. Tender chicken breasts are tossed in tangy barbecue sauce, then combined with sweet pineapple tidbits, vibrant red bell pepper, and red onion, all wrapped securely in foil to lock in moisture and flavor. Ideal for a hassle-free dinner for four, these foil packs offer a juicy, savory, and slightly sweet dish that can be cooked on the grill or in the oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Sauce
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cups barbecue sauce
Vegetables and Fruit
- 2 cups pineapple tidbits
- 1 red bell pepper, diced (seeds and ribs removed)
- 1 small red onion, diced
Other
- 4 sheets heavy duty tin foil (heavy duty foil recommended to prevent tearing)
- Freshly chopped cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Foil Sheets and Coat Chicken: Lay out 4 large heavy-duty sheets of tin foil on a clean, flat surface. In a large bowl, combine the cut chicken pieces and barbecue sauce. Toss thoroughly to ensure all chicken pieces are fully coated with the sauce.
- Assemble Foil Packs: Evenly divide the barbecue sauce-coated chicken among the four foil sheets, placing it in the center of each sheet. Then evenly distribute the pineapple tidbits, diced red bell pepper, and diced red onion over the chicken on each foil sheet.
- Seal the Foil Packs: Bring up two opposite sides of the foil over the chicken and vegetables so the edges meet. Seal the edges by folding tightly about a half-inch fold, then fold again to create a secure seal that allows for heat circulation and expansion. Fold the remaining sides similarly to completely seal the packs.
- Cook the Foil Packs: Option 1: Preheat your grill and place the foil packs directly on the grill grates. Close the grill lid and cook for 10 minutes, then carefully turn each pack over and continue cooking for another 10 to 15 minutes. Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked. Option 2: Preheat your oven to 375°F and place the foil packs on a baking sheet. Bake for 35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked thoroughly and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Serve and Garnish: Carefully open the foil packs (watch out for hot steam) and optionally garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Heavy-duty foil is recommended to prevent leaks and tearing during cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- If using the grill, handle foil packs carefully when turning to avoid spills.
- Customize by adding other vegetables like corn or zucchini if desired.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in the foil packs or an airtight container for up to 3 days.
