These mouthwatering Chicken Fajitas Foil Packets bring all the sizzling flavors of your favorite Mexican restaurant right to your dinner table in just 30 minutes. Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, each perfectly portioned packet delivers 27g of protein while keeping the calories sensible at 343 per serving.
The foil-packet cooking method not only ensures tender, juicy results but also makes cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual outdoor gatherings, this no-fuss meal combines convenience with classic Tex-Mex taste.
Main Ingredients
- Rice: 1 1/2 cups minute rice (brown or white), perfect for quick cooking
- Chicken: 1 pound boneless skinless breasts, cut into thin strips for even cooking
- Vegetables: 2 bell peppers and 1 onion, sliced thin for optimal tenderness
- Seasonings: 1 packet fajita or taco seasoning, 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- Base: 1 1/2 cups water, tin foil for wrapping
Optional Toppings
- Fresh Items: Guacamole, cilantro, lime wedges
- Extras: Flour tortillas, salsa, sour cream, hot sauce
Preparation Steps
- Rice Preparation: Mix rice with water and 2 tablespoons seasoning, let rest for 5 minutes
- Protein & Veggie Mix: Combine chicken strips, peppers, onions with oil and remaining seasoning
- Packet Assembly: Prepare four 12-inch foil pieces, distribute rice mixture and top with chicken-veggie mix
- Sealing: Carefully fold foil sides to create secure packets
Cooking Methods
- Grill Method: Medium heat for 10-13 minutes with closed lid
- Oven Method: 425°F for 15-20 minutes on a baking tray
- Campfire Method: Place in hot coals for about 20 minutes
Cooking Methods
This recipe gives you three fantastic ways to cook your fajita packets! On the grill, they’ll get that wonderful smoky outdoor flavor. In the oven, they’re super convenient and perfect for any weather.
And if you’re camping, these packets are amazing cooked right in the campfire coals – just imagine that cozy outdoor dining experience! Each method works great, so pick the one that fits your situation best.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prep these packets up to 24 hours ahead! Just slice your chicken and veggies, and keep them separate in airtight containers in the fridge.
When you’re ready to cook, simply assemble the packets with the seasoned rice. This is super handy for camping trips or busy weeknight meals. Just remember to keep your prepped ingredients cold until you’re ready to use them.
Serving Ideas
Let’s make these fajita packets extra special! Wrap the cooked chicken and veggie mixture in warm tortillas, then add your favorite toppings. Try fresh lime juice for brightness, creamy guacamole, cool sour cream, or spicy salsa.
Fresh cilantro adds wonderful flavor, and a dash of hot sauce kicks things up a notch. Set up a little toppings bar and let everyone build their perfect fajita!
Easy Swaps
This recipe is super flexible! Switch up the bell peppers with any colors you like – red, green, yellow, or orange all work great. Not a fan of chicken? Try shrimp or steak instead (just adjust cooking times).
If you’re out of minute rice, regular rice works too – just cook it separately first. You can even use your own homemade taco seasoning blend if you prefer to skip the packet.
Chicken Fajitas Foil Packets
Equipment
- tin foil
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups minute rice, brown or white
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into thin strips
- 2 bell peppers any color, sliced into thin strips
- 1 yellow or purple onion sliced into thin strips
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet fajita seasoning or taco seasoning divided
For serving (Optional)
- small flour tortillas
- guacamole
- salsa
- sour cream
- fresh cilantro
- hot sauce
- limes
Instructions
- Combine rice, water, and 2 tablespoons taco seasoning and stir. Set aside for 5 minutes.
- Add chicken, bell peppers and onion to a large bowl. Drizzle with oil, and season with the remaining taco seasoning packet, stirring gently to evenly coat everything.
- Coat four large pieces (about 12” long) of tinfoil with cooking spray. Divide the rice and remaining liquid evenly between the pieces of tinfoil. Add chicken and vegetables on top. Bring the sides of the tinfoil up, sealing the tinfoil closed to form foil packs, ready to cook.
- To cook on the grill: Preheat grill to medium heat. Add foil packets and close lid. Cook on medium to medium-high heat, depending on your grill, for about 10-13 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Add desired toppings and enjoy!
- To cook in the oven: Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Place the foil packets on a baking tray and cook for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Add desired toppings and enjoy!
- To cook in a campfire: Cook in the hot coals of a campfire for about 20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. Add desired toppings and enjoy!
