Craving a mouthwatering meal that's both incredibly delicious and ridiculously easy to make? Get ready to revolutionize your dinner routine with these Santa Fe Chicken Packets that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico! Imagine tender, juicy chicken nestled with zesty salsa, sweet corn, and hearty black beans, all wrapped up in a magical foil packet that seals in every single drop of flavor. This one-pan wonder is about to become your new weeknight hero – no mess, minimal cleanup, and maximum satisfaction guaranteed!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup corn, drained
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Cut 4 large squares of heavy-duty aluminum foil, approximately 12x12 inches each.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine corn, black beans, salsa, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create the filling.
- Place each chicken breast in the center of a foil square. Season chicken with additional salt and pepper on both sides.
- Divide the corn and bean mixture evenly over each chicken breast, ensuring the chicken is well-covered.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top of each chicken breast and vegetable mixture.
- Carefully fold the foil edges to create sealed packets, ensuring no liquid can escape during cooking. Leave a small amount of space inside the packet for steam.
- Place the foil packets on a large baking sheet and transfer to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.
- Remove from oven and let packets rest for 3-5 minutes before carefully opening to avoid steam burns.
- Serve hot directly from the foil packets, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions.
Tips
- Foil Packet Perfection: Make sure to create a tight seal when folding your packets, but leave a little room for steam to circulate. This ensures your chicken stays moist and tender.
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to swap salsa varieties or add some diced green chiles for an extra kick of flavor.
- Meal Prep Hack: You can assemble these packets earlier in the day and refrigerate until ready to bake – perfect for busy families!
- Garnish Greatness: Fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream can elevate these packets from great to absolutely incredible.Pro tip: For an even more authentic Santa Fe experience, serve with a side of Mexican rice or warm tortillas to soak up all those delicious juices!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 382kcal
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 44g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 115mg
