Parmesan Chicken Foil Packets
User Reviews
5
Parmesan Chicken Foil Packets
Description
Parmesan Chicken Foil Packets bring together chicken breasts, zucchini slices, pasta sauce, and cheeses neatly wrapped in foil and cooked on the grill. The chicken is seasoned with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then topped with Parmesan and covered with mozzarella during resting to add creaminess. While grilling, the foil traps steam and flavors, resulting in tender chicken and cooked vegetables that retain moisture and texture. This method also simplifies cleanup by keeping everything contained in each packet.
The dish balances the savoriness of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses with the bright acidity of the pasta sauce and the freshness of zucchini. The grilling imparts slight smoky notes and cooks the chicken through to an internal temperature of 165°F. The foil pouch ensures the cheese melts effectively without scorching on the grill.
These foil packets can be enjoyed as a self-contained dinner or served atop cooked pasta to create a heartier meal. Additional pasta sauce can be added at serving for those who like extra sauce. Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a fresh herbal finish.
Boiling pasta separately allows customization for serving. The packet juices collect flavor during grilling and can be spooned over the pasta and chicken when plated. This recipe provides an easy way to deliver a balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and cheese while minimizing prep dishwashing.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breast 5-6oz each, boneless skinless
- 3 cups pasta sauce additional for serving if desired
- 2 medium zucchini sliced ½-inch
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder divided
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning divided
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
- ¼ cup olive oil
- parsley chopped, fresh
- pasta for serving, optional, cooked
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium heat. Spray four 12x18-inch foil pieces with cooking spray.
- Divide the zucchini among the pieces of foil. Sprinkle with half of the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Top each with 2 tablespoons of parmesan cheese and ⅓ cup pasta sauce.
- Place a chicken breast on top of the sauce and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with garlic powder and the remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Seal each packet by folding over the long edges a couple of times and then folding the short edges.
- Place the packets, chicken side down, on the grill and cook for 8 minutes. Flip them over and grill for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165°F.
- With the chicken still on the grill, cut a slit into each foil packet with a knife and sprinkle ¼ cup mozzarella cheese. Let rest for 5 minutes to melt the cheese. Garn
- Garnish with fresh parsley if using.
Notes
- For serving, boil about 8 ounces of pasta as per package directions if desired to create a fuller meal.
- Use any pasta sauce you prefer; extra sauce can be added when serving.
- Grill with the packets closed tightly to keep moisture and heat inside.
- Ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature before serving for food safety.
- Fresh parsley makes a suitable garnish and adds color.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 530 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 530 | 27% |
| Carbohydrates | 15g | 5% |
| Protein | 65g | 130% |
| Fat | 23g | 35% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Cholesterol | 158mg | 53% |
| Sodium | 1643mg | 68% |
| Potassium | 1750mg | 37% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 10g | 20% |
| Vitamin A | 1295IU | 26% |
| Vitamin C | 33.1mg | 37% |
| Calcium | 478mg | 48% |
| Iron | 3.5mg | 19% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.