Chicken Under Foil
Juicy chicken and colorful vegetables cook together under foil, creating a flavorful, easy-to-make meal perfect for outdoor cooking or quick dinner solutions.
Ingredients
- 1 chicken breast ⓘ
- 1 medium potato, sliced into 1/8-inch slices ⓘ
- 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced ⓘ
- 1 medium yellow squash, thinly sliced ⓘ
- 1 stalk celery, chopped into 1/4-inch pieces ⓘ
- 1/4 bell pepper, sliced ⓘ
- 1 small onion, sliced ⓘ
- 4 fresh mushrooms, whole ⓘ
- 5 or 6 fresh pea pods ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon butter
- salt and pepper to taste ⓘ
Instructions
- On a large sheet of aluminum foil, place the chicken and all vegetables in the center.
- Wrap up the ingredients securely, forming a good seal.
- Repeat this process two more times, ensuring all packets are well sealed.
- Place the foil packet directly on hot coals of a fire.
- Cook for 15 to 20 minutes on each side, turning occasionally.
- Remove from fire and carefully open the foil.
- Eat the meal directly from the foil.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken breast in your favorite spices or a splash of lemon juice before cooking. You can substitute the vegetables based on seasonal availability; zucchini or bell peppers work well. If you're short on time, pre-cooked chicken can also be used, but ensure it is heated through. For a different twist, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or teriyaki for an Asian flair.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken directly from the foil for a rustic presentation. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed rice, adding a refreshing contrast. For a more substantial meal, consider serving alongside garlic bread or roasted asparagus. A chilled glass of white wine or iced tea complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and vegetables in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to create steam and retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Under Foil contains roughly 4821 calories, with 33g protein, 196g carbohydrates, and 438g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (228% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (131% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook this recipe in the oven instead of over a fire?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for oven cooking. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the foil packet on a baking sheet, and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. Just ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What can I use instead of aluminum foil?
If you're looking for a foil alternative, parchment paper can be a great option. Just be sure to wrap it securely and place it on a baking sheet to prevent any leaks. Alternatively, you can use a cast-iron skillet with a lid to achieve a similar steaming effect.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear, and the meat is no longer pink in the center.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).