Lemon Chicken Foil Packets

There’s something magical about cooking in foil packets, and that’s why I absolutely love making Lemon Chicken Foil Packets. It’s such a simple way to create a delicious, flavorful meal while keeping everything tidy and easy. I first stumbled upon this idea during a family camping trip, where space and time for preparation were limited. We wanted something hearty yet uncomplicated, so I decided to throw together some chicken, veggies, and a splash of lemon juice into a few foil sheets, and the result was nothing short of fantastic!

As we gathered around the fire, each packet sizzling away, I couldn’t help but feel excited. The ease of preparation allowed us to spend more time laughing and less time worrying about what to make for dinner. I remember the aroma wafting through the air as we opened the packets to find perfectly tender chicken alongside roasted veggies. Every bite was a burst of flavor, and the kids loved it too, which is always a win for me!

Now, I’ve brought this camping favorite into my home kitchen, where it fits perfectly into our busy weeknight routine. The best part? The clean-up is a breeze! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a wholesome meal that feels gourmet. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply trying to put something delicious on the table after a long day, Lemon Chicken Foil Packets will quickly become a go-to recipe in your household. So, let’s dive into the ingredients and the cooking method that makes this dish so special!

Essential Ingredients for Lemon Chicken Foil Packets

When it comes to Lemon Chicken Foil Packets, the ingredients are simple yet essential. The combination of fresh produce and tender chicken creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, ensuring that the chicken stays juicy while the vegetables are perfectly roasted. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish so delicious!

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! These chicken breasts are juicy and tender, absorbing all the flavors of the seasonings and lemon.
• ¼ cup olive oil: This helps to keep the chicken moist and adds a layer of richness to the dish.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (divided): A blend of herbs that adds depth and warmth to the meal.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided): Essential for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper (divided): Adds a subtle kick to the overall flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon ground paprika (divided): Introduces a hint of smokiness and color to the dish.
• 4 cups baby potatoes (sliced into ¼ inch rounds): These little gems are hearty and cook beautifully, creating a comforting side.
• 1 onion (sliced): Adds sweetness and depth when roasted.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses wonderful aroma and flavor into the whole dish.
• 1 lemon (sliced): The zesty touch that brightens everything up!
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided): Ensures the chicken remains moist and adds a rich flavor.

Cooking Method for Lemon Chicken Foil Packets

Cooking Lemon Chicken Foil Packets is as enjoyable as it is straightforward. You’ll soon find that it’s a breeze to prepare. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouth-watering dinner on your table in no time!

1. Preheat your oven to 375℉. This is a crucial first step to ensure your chicken cooks evenly. The preheating process readies your oven to roast the packets perfectly.

2. Season the chicken breasts with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper, ¼ teaspoon of ground paprika, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Make sure you rub the seasonings well into the meat, allowing the flavors to penetrate. This step is vital for a juicy and flavorful outcome.

3. Set the seasoned chicken aside. In a large bowl, add the potatoes, onion, garlic, and olive oil. Toss them together with the remaining seasonings. You want to ensure that everything is coated evenly with the oil and spices. This will enhance the flavors and promote even cooking.

4. Now, grab 4 pieces of nonstick foil, each large enough to enclose one packet. Spray the middle of each sheet with nonstick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!

5. To each sheet, place ¼ of the potato mixture in the center. Spread it out to create a bed for the chicken. This layering ensures the chicken cooks efficiently and absorbs all the flavors from the veggies.

6. Top each potato mixture with a seasoned chicken breast, a couple of lemon slices, and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. The butter will melt during cooking, adding a rich flavor to the dish.

7. Next, fold the left and right sides of the foil towards the center to overlap. This seals in the steam, allowing the chicken and veggies to cook in their own juices.

8. Roll down the top and bottom edges of the foil tightly to finish sealing the packet. Repeat with the remaining ingredients. Make sure each packet is securely sealed; this is key for capturing the steam and flavor.

9. Transfer the packets to a sheet pan. Bake for 35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. The smell that fills your kitchen at this point is just irresistible!

10. Once baked, carefully open each packet (watch out for the steam!) and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors in your Lemon Chicken Foil Packets!

Tips and Variations

If you’re looking to take your cooking to the next level, here are some tips and variations that will enhance your Lemon Chicken Foil Packets experience!

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled packets before cooking. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Vegetable swaps: Feel free to swap out the potatoes for other root vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots for a different flavor profile.
• Add spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can add an aromatic twist.
• Serving options: Pair with a fresh salad or crusty bread to round out the meal.
• Try with seafood: For a light version, substitute the chicken with salmon or shrimp, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
• Season the foil: Add a little lemon zest or garlic powder on the foil for extra flavor.

Perfect Pairings for Lemon Chicken Foil Packets

When it comes to serving Lemon Chicken Foil Packets, there are several delightful options to enhance your dining experience!

• Fresh salads: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the chicken.
• Crusty bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread that can be used to soak up the delicious juices from the packets.
• Seasonal veggies: Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans make great accompaniments.
• Rice or grains: Serve with a side of fluffy rice or quinoa for a wholesome, filling meal.
• Occasional gatherings: This dish is great for family dinners or gatherings, as it allows for easy serving and minimal clean-up.
• Effortless lunch: Leftovers make a great lunch option, whether enjoyed cold or reheated!
• Meal prepping: Perfect for meal prepping, as you can make several packets at once and store them for later meals.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Lemon Chicken Foil Packets are a delightful combination of flavors wrapped into a convenient and fun cooking method. They offer a stress-free way to prepare a wholesome meal that the whole family will love. I encourage you to try this recipe at home; it’s simple, delicious, and perfect for a busy weeknight. You’ll find it quickly becomes a staple in your kitchen!

Lemon Chicken Foil Packets

The ultimate comfort food, Lemon Chicken Foil Packets bring together tender chicken, flavorful veggies, and a zesty kick of lemon. This easy weeknight dinner is packed with flavor and is a breeze to prepare. Perfect for busy nights or when you want something delicious without the fuss!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning divided
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt divided
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper divided
• ½ teaspoon ground paprika divided
• 4 cups baby potatoes sliced into ¼ inch rounds
• 1 piece onion sliced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 piece lemon sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter divided

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 375℉. This is a crucial first step to ensure your chicken cooks evenly. The preheating process readies your oven to roast the packets perfectly.
• Season the chicken breasts with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper, ¼ teaspoon of ground paprika, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Make sure you rub the seasonings well into the meat, allowing the flavors to penetrate. This step is vital for a juicy and flavorful outcome.
• Set the seasoned chicken aside. In a large bowl, add the potatoes, onion, garlic, and olive oil. Toss them together with the remaining seasonings. You want to ensure that everything is coated evenly with the oil and spices. This will enhance the flavors and promote even cooking.
• Now, grab 4 pieces of nonstick foil, each large enough to enclose one packet. Spray the middle of each sheet with nonstick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
• To each sheet, place ¼ of the potato mixture in the center. Spread it out to create a bed for the chicken. This layering ensures the chicken cooks efficiently and absorbs all the flavors from the veggies.
• Top each potato mixture with a seasoned chicken breast, a couple of lemon slices, and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. The butter will melt during cooking, adding a rich flavor to the dish.
• Next, fold the left and right sides of the foil towards the center to overlap. This seals in the steam, allowing the chicken and veggies to cook in their own juices.
• Roll down the top and bottom edges of the foil tightly to finish sealing the packet. Repeat with the remaining ingredients. Make sure each packet is securely sealed; this is key for capturing the steam and flavor.
• Transfer the packets to a sheet pan. Bake for 35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. The smell that fills your kitchen at this point is just irresistible!
• Once baked, carefully open each packet (watch out for the steam!) and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors in your Lemon Chicken Foil Packets!

Notes

• Tip 1: Cutting the potatoes evenly (into ¼-inch rounds) ensures they cook at the same rate as the chicken. Uneven slices can lead to undercooked potatoes.
• Tip 2: Make sure to spray the middle of each sheet of foil with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
• Tip 3: Remember that each foil packet is for one serving, so stuff accordingly.
• Tip 4: You can check the chicken's doneness by sticking a meat thermometer into the thickest part. If it reads at least 165°F, then you’re good to go!
• Tip 5: I recommend letting the packets rest for 5 minutes after baking before opening. This allows the juices to redistribute and prevents dry chicken.
• Tip 6: To cook these foil packets on the grill, place them on a hot grill and cook for about 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.

Keyword easy lemon chicken recipe, foil packet chicken dinner, Healthy Chicken Recipes, quick weeknight meals

Previous PostLemon Chicken Pasta

Next Post Instant Pot Sesame Chicken

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.