Foil Baked Chicken and Broccoli

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish like Foil Baked Chicken and Broccoli. Picture this: it’s a chilly weeknight, and you’re craving something warm and wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe has become a staple in my home, not just for its simplicity but for the way it brings everything together in a neat little foil package. The smell of the chicken roasting with the subtle essence of broccoli and herbs filling the air is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a laid-back weekend, this dish is perfect for those moments when you want to enjoy a healthy meal without a lot of fuss.

Shopping List for Foil Baked Chicken and Broccoli

When it comes to making Foil Baked Chicken and Broccoli, the key ingredients work harmoniously to create a satisfying meal. The star of the show is, of course, the chicken, which should be tender and juicy. Pairing it with fresh broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also packs in essential nutrients. The spices elevate the dish, infusing it with flavor that enhances the straightforward ingredients.

• 1 head of broccoli, cut into medium florets: Fresh and crisp, broccoli adds texture and flavor while being a great source of vitamins.
• 4 tablespoons of water: This will help steam the broccoli and chicken, ensuring they cook perfectly.
• 1.5 pounds of boneless and skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces: The protein base of the dish, chicken is versatile and satisfying.
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced: A must-have that brings depth and aromatic flavors to the meal.
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme: This herb adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon of ground rosemary: The distinct scent and flavor of rosemary enhance the overall taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground sage: A subtle but significant herb that adds depth to the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper: For a touch of heat and warmth in every bite.
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt, more or less to taste: Essential for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.

The Process for Making Foil Baked Chicken and Broccoli

The process of making Foil Baked Chicken and Broccoli is just as satisfying as the meal itself. You’ll be amazed at how simple it can be to create such a delicious dish. Let’s get started, and remember to keep an eye on your chicken and broccoli to achieve the best results!

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. While the oven heats, prepare your ingredients. This ensures that everything cooks evenly and at the right temperature.
2. Take two large sheets of foil and spray them with nonstick spray, leaving enough space around the edges to roll them up later. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
3. Place half of the broccoli florets in the center of each piece of foil. Drizzle the water over the top of the broccoli. This moisture will help steam the vegetables and keep everything tender.
4. On top of the broccoli, layer the chicken pieces. It’s important to distribute them evenly so each packet cooks uniformly.
5. Now it’s time to season! Sprinkle the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, sage, black pepper, and salt over the chicken and broccoli. Make sure everything is coated well to maximize flavor.
6. Carefully fold the edges of the foil over the chicken and broccoli to create a sealed packet. Be gentle, as you don’t want to tear the foil. This step is crucial for keeping the moisture inside during baking.
7. Once both packets are sealed, place them on a baking sheet. This makes it easy to transfer them in and out of the oven safely.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 45 minutes. The timing will depend on how thick your chicken pieces are; they should be cooked through and tender.
9. Before opening the packets, cut a small slit in each to allow steam to escape. This prevents any burns from the hot steam when you open the foil.
10. Unfold the packets carefully and serve your Foil Baked Chicken and Broccoli immediately. Enjoy the steaming hot flavors right from the foil!

Customization Ideas

While Foil Baked Chicken and Broccoli is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish to suit your tastes. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

• Add more veggies: Try including sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or even carrots for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
• Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil for a unique twist.
• Cheesy goodness: If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle some mozzarella or cheddar on top of the chicken before sealing the foil.
• Marinades: Marinating the chicken beforehand can infuse it with even more flavor. A simple olive oil and lemon marinade works wonders.
• Serve with a side: Pair your meal with a wholesome grain like quinoa or brown rice for a complete dinner.
• Storage: Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the raw packets before cooking; just add an extra few minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.

Serving Options for Foil Baked Chicken and Broccoli

When it comes to serving Foil Baked Chicken and Broccoli, the options are plentiful. Here are some ideas to make the most of this delightful dish:

• Serve immediately: The best way to enjoy this meal is fresh out of the oven, allowing the flavors to shine.
• Pair with rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy brown rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful juices.
• Perfect for lunch boxes: Leftovers make a great addition to lunch boxes for a nutritious meal on the go.
• Great for gatherings: This dish can be made in larger quantities for family gatherings or potlucks.
• Seasonal sides: Consider pairing with a light salad or roasted seasonal vegetables for a balanced plate.
• Occasional servings: Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or casual family meals.
• Store leftovers: Keep any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Foil Baked Chicken and Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines convenience with flavor. It’s a simple recipe that delivers a comforting meal without excessive effort in the kitchen. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the satisfaction of a wholesome, tasty dinner that everyone will love!

Foil Baked Chicken and Broccoli

The ultimate comfort food, Foil Baked Chicken and Broccoli is easy to make and packed with flavor. Enjoy juicy chicken and tender broccoli in a convenient foil packet for a simple weeknight dinner. You'll love how quickly it comes together and how satisfying it is!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 2 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 1 head of broccoli cut into medium florets
• 4 tablespoons water
• 1.5 pounds boneless and skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon ground sage
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt more or less to taste

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. While the oven heats, prepare your ingredients. This ensures that everything cooks evenly and at the right temperature.
• Take two large sheets of foil and spray them with nonstick spray, leaving enough space around the edges to roll them up later. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Place half of the broccoli florets in the center of each piece of foil. Drizzle the water over the top of the broccoli. This moisture will help steam the vegetables and keep everything tender.
• On top of the broccoli, layer the chicken pieces. It's important to distribute them evenly so each packet cooks uniformly.
• Now it's time to season! Sprinkle the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, sage, black pepper, and salt over the chicken and broccoli. Make sure everything is coated well to maximize flavor.
• Carefully fold the edges of the foil over the chicken and broccoli to create a sealed packet. Be gentle, as you don’t want to tear the foil. This step is crucial for keeping the moisture inside during baking.
• Once both packets are sealed, place them on a baking sheet. This makes it easy to transfer them in and out of the oven safely.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 45 minutes. The timing will depend on how thick your chicken pieces are; they should be cooked through and tender.
• Before opening the packets, cut a small slit in each to allow steam to escape. This prevents any burns from the hot steam when you open the foil.
• Unfold the packets carefully and serve your Foil Baked Chicken and Broccoli immediately. Enjoy the steaming hot flavors right from the foil!

Notes

• Storage: Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the raw packets before cooking; just add an extra few minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.
• Pairing: Serve over a bed of fluffy brown rice or quinoa.
• Variations: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
• Marinades: Marinating the chicken beforehand can infuse it with even more flavor.

Keyword broccoli recipes, chicken recipes, Easy Dinner Ideas, Healthy Meal Prep

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Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.