Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure with these mouthwatering Pesto Chicken Grill Packets! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in vibrant, herbaceous pesto, nestled alongside colorful, roasted vegetables - all perfectly sealed in a convenient foil packet that locks in every single drop of flavor. Whether you're a busy home cook or a grilling enthusiast, this recipe promises restaurant-quality taste with minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F). If using an oven, preheat to 425°F.
- Prepare four large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each about 12 inches long. Lightly spray or brush the center of each foil sheet with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt and pepper.
- Place one chicken breast in the center of each prepared foil sheet.
- Generously spread 1/4 cup of pesto sauce over each chicken breast, ensuring complete coverage.
- Evenly distribute sliced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers around and on top of the chicken breasts.
- Carefully fold the foil edges to create sealed packets, leaving some space inside for steam circulation. Ensure edges are tightly crimped to prevent leakage.
- Place packets on the preheated grill and cook for 18-20 minutes. If using an oven, place packets on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Check chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F at the thickest part to ensure safe cooking.
- Carefully open foil packets (watch for hot steam) and transfer contents to serving plates.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh basil leaves or additional pesto sauce before serving.
- Let packets rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute and prevent dryness.
Tips
- Use heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent tearing and ensure even cooking.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help achieve better seasoning adherence and prevent steaming.
- Don't overcrowd the vegetables - leave some space for steam circulation.
- Always use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F for food safety.
- Let packets rest after cooking to redistribute juices and keep chicken moist.
- For extra flavor, try using homemade pesto or experimenting with different herb variations.
- If grilling isn't an option, this recipe works perfectly in the oven with identical delicious results.
- For a low-carb option, serve directly from the packet or pair with a light salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
