Get ready for a tasty treat with these Grilled Crack Chicken Foil Packets! Packed with juicy chicken, creamy cheese, and delicious ranch flavor, it’s a true crowd-pleaser.
It’s super easy to make! Just toss everything in a foil packet and let the grill do the work. I love how simple it is to clean up after too—just toss the foil when you’re done!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best here. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier texture. You could also use shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.
Potatoes: I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture. If you want to make it lighter, swap out potatoes for zucchini or bell peppers.
Cream Cheese: This adds a rich creaminess. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can use Greek yogurt instead, giving a tangy twist to the dish!
Ranch Seasoning: A packet of ranch seasoning is key for flavor. You can easily make your own mix with dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder if you want to avoid store-bought options.
Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a savory crunch. For a vegetarian option, you could use cooked mushrooms for that umami flavor without the meat.
How Do I Seal the Foil Packets Properly?
Sealing the foil packets correctly is crucial to retain all the flavors and juices while cooking. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a good size of foil, about 12 inches. This allows enough space for the contents to expand.
- Place the chicken and potato mixture in the center, leaving some space around the edges.
- Fold the two long sides of the foil together, pinching to seal tightly.
- Then fold the short ends upward, creating a closed packet. Ensure there are no gaps to avoid leaks.
This method keeps everything juicy and allows the ingredients to steam properly, resulting in a delicious meal!
How to Make Grilled Crack Chicken Foil Packets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Foil Packets:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Aluminum foil for wrapping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 30-35 minutes for cooking on the grill. Make sure to allow for a few minutes of cooling time once they’re off the grill. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure the packets cook evenly and quickly when placed on the grill.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, thinly sliced potatoes, softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, crumbled bacon, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and all the flavors are combined.
3. Prepare the Foil Sheets:
Cut four sheets of aluminum foil, each about 12 inches long. Place a generous scoop of the chicken and potato mixture in the center of each sheet. Don’t forget to leave some space around the edges for folding!
4. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over each portion of the mixture in the foil packets. This will melt beautifully while cooking and add delicious flavor!
5. Seal the Packets:
Fold the sides of the aluminum foil up and over the mixture, creating a sealed packet. Make sure it’s tightly closed to keep everything inside and prevent any leaks while cooking.
6. Grill the Packets:
Place the foil packets directly on the hot grill. Close the lid and cook for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the packets from the grill. Be cautious—they’ll be very hot! Let them cool for a few minutes before opening. This will help prevent any steam burns.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Open the packets and serve your delicious Grilled Crack Chicken Foil Packets warm. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Substitute Another Type of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning Mix?
No problem! You can make your own by mixing 1 tablespoon of dried parsley, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of dried dill. This will give your packets a similar flavor profile without the store-bought mix!
How Can I Store Leftover Crack Chicken Packets?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place them directly on a grill or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Packets?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or broccoli. Just ensure that they are cut into smaller pieces so they cook evenly with the chicken and potatoes.
