These Grilled Crack Chicken Foil Packets are a tasty treat! They’re filled with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and crispy bacon, all cooked to perfection on the grill.
What’s great is that everything is in one packet—easy cleanup! I love making these on a busy night; just toss them on the grill and enjoy a flavorful meal without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Diced chicken breast is the base of this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, turkey breast works well too. For a vegetarian option, consider using firm tofu or chickpeas.
Potatoes: I love using Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery texture. However, you can substitute with red potatoes or sweet potatoes, which will add a nice sweetness to the packets.
Ranch Seasoning: This mix adds a lot of flavor. If you can’t find a packet, you can make your own with dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder. Just combine these as per taste.
Cream Cheese: I prefer using full-fat cream cheese for rich flavor, but low-fat options work if you’re looking to cut calories. Neufchâtel cheese is a great substitute too!
Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a nice crunch. If you’re avoiding meat, try crispy fried onions or tempeh bacon for a similar texture and flavor profile.
How Do I Make Sure My Potatoes Are Tender?
Getting perfectly tender potatoes in leftover foil can be tricky, but here’s how to ensure they’re cooked just right:
- Slice the potatoes as thinly as possible—this helps them cook faster and more evenly.
- Layer them neatly at the bottom of each foil packet to allow heat to circulate.
- Don’t skip the preheating step for your grill; it helps ensure a steady cooking temperature.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time, and if you’re unsure, you can check for tenderness with a fork around the 30-minute mark.
Delicious Grilled Crack Chicken Foil Packets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Foil Packets:
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced thinly
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Aluminum foil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to cook on the grill. In total, you’ll spend about 45 minutes from start to finish for a delicious meal packed full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure that your foil packets cook evenly and the chicken is nice and juicy.
2. Prepare the Foil:
Tear off 4 large sheets of aluminum foil, each about 12 inches long. This will be enough to create separate packets for your delicious ingredients!
3. Mix the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken and the ranch seasoning mix. Stir until the chicken is well coated with the seasoning—this is where the flavor starts!
4. Assemble the Packets:
On each piece of foil, create a layer of sliced potatoes. Then, divide the seasoned chicken evenly among the foil sheets and place it on top of the potatoes.
5. Add Cream Cheese:
Add a dollop of softened cream cheese on top of the chicken in each packet. This will make the dish creamy and delicious!
6. Top with Cheese and Bacon:
Now sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over each layer in the packets, followed by the crumbled bacon for an extra savory touch.
7. Season the Packets:
Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Just a little sprinkle will do!
8. Seal the Packets:
Fold the foil tightly to seal each packet and prevent any leakage. Leave some space in each packet for steam to build up while cooking—that’s what makes everything nice and tender!
9. Grill the Packets:
Place the foil packets gently on the preheated grill. Cook for about 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender. Keep an eye on them!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the packets from the grill—watch out for hot steam when you open them! Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor before digging in.
Enjoy your wonderfully flavorful and easy-to-make Grilled Crack Chicken Foil Packets with friends and family!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s essential to thaw the chicken completely first! You can do this by placing the frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for a quicker option. Make sure to pat it dry afterward for better seasoning and cooking!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt as a substitute. Both will give you a creamy texture, though sour cream may add a bit of tanginess. Use the same amount as the cream cheese in the recipe.
How Should I Store Leftover Foil Packets?
Once cooled, store any leftover foil packet contents in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply transfer the contents to a microwave-safe dish and warm them in the microwave until heated through, or you can reheat on the grill or in the oven wrapped in foil.
Can I Prepare These Packets Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the foil packets a few hours in advance, just keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This makes it extra convenient for meal prep or when hosting a gathering!
