If you are searching for a delicious, fuss-free dinner that packs a punch of flavor without piling on carbs, you have to try this Low-Carb Foil Packet Chicken and Vegetable Dinner Recipe. It’s a vibrant medley of tender marinated chicken paired with colorful veggies, all cooked together in foil packets to seal in the juices and aromas. Whether you’re grilling outside or using your oven, this recipe offers a perfect balance of hearty and healthy, making dinner feel both special and simple on any busy night.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Low-Carb Foil Packet Chicken and Vegetable Dinner Recipe lies in its straightforward, fresh ingredients that work together effortlessly. Each ingredient plays a vital role—chicken brings protein, peppers and zucchini add crunch and color, and the zesty marinade ties everything into a deliciously cohesive bite.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choosing lean chicken makes for a light yet satisfying main protein.
- Red or green bell peppers: These add sweetness and bright hues that make the dish visually inviting.
- Small red onions: For a mild sharpness that softens well during cooking, enhancing depth.
- Medium zucchini: Its soft but firm texture soaks up the marinade beautifully.
- Newman’s Own Classic Oil and Vinegar Dressing: This serves as a perfect base for marinating, infusing crisp tang and moistness.
- Zesty Italian Dressing Mix: Brings herbaceous and savory notes that elevate the entire dish.
- Optional Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish when sprinkled on top before serving.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal brightness that livens every bite.
How to Make Low-Carb Foil Packet Chicken and Vegetable Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch pieces. This allows the marinade to penetrate evenly and ensures each bite delivers juicy tenderness. Smaller pieces also cook more quickly and help the chicken share the spotlight with the veggies.
Step 2: Create the Marinade
Mix the Newman’s Own Classic Oil and Vinegar Dressing with the packet of Zesty Italian Dressing Mix. This flavorful blend creates a zesty, tangy marinade that elevates the dish with herb and vinegar notes, ensuring the chicken and veggies don’t just cook—they come alive in taste.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken pieces in a large Ziploc bag and pour in the marinade. Seal tightly and toss to coat everything evenly. Refrigerate and let the chicken soak up those vibrant flavors for several hours—this step is key to infusing moisture and complexity into the meat.
Step 4: Marinate the Vegetables
Slice your bell peppers, red onions, and zucchini into bite-sized pieces. Add them to a separate container or bag with some of the marinade (reserve enough to keep flavors balanced). Let these marinate for 1 to 2 hours—just enough time for them to soften slightly, picking up that same delicious tang.
Step 5: Assemble the Foil Packets
Using heavy-duty aluminum foil, create four large squares. Divide the marinated chicken and vegetables evenly among the foil pieces, keeping everything neatly centered. Fold the foil into secure packets to trap all the juices during cooking, which is what makes this Low-Carb Foil Packet Chicken and Vegetable Dinner Recipe so incredibly moist and flavorful.
Step 6: Cook on the Grill or Campfire
Place your foil packets on a preheated grill or over a campfire. Cook for approximately 20 minutes, turning once if you like. The key here is to check for doneness: chicken should be cooked through and veggies tender but still a little crisp, giving you that perfect balance of textures.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Carefully open your steaming foil packets and sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top. The warmth will gently melt the cheese, adding a salty, savory richness to complete your meal. Now, dig in and enjoy the harmony of all those vibrant flavors!
How to Serve Low-Carb Foil Packet Chicken and Vegetable Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley and a dusting of Parmesan cheese are simple yet game-changing garnishes. The parsley adds a pop of color and herbaceous brightness, while Parmesan introduces a creamy, salty dimension that rounds out the flavor profile beautifully.
Side Dishes
Since this Low-Carb Foil Packet Chicken and Vegetable Dinner Recipe is already brimming with veggies and protein, consider pairing it with a crisp mixed green salad or cauliflower rice for added texture. Roasted garlic mashed cauliflower would also complement the tangy, herb-infused flavors nicely without increasing carbs.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the foil packets slightly opened at the table so the wonderful aromas rise as they are enjoyed. Alternatively, unwrap the packets and serve the chicken and veggies on a bed of sautéed spinach or a warm plate of zucchini noodles to elevate presentation and keep dinner light and fresh.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover chicken and vegetables to an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because everything is cooked together with a flavorful marinade, leftovers reheat beautifully without drying out.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to assemble the foil packets without cooking and store them in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and cook as usual. Cooked leftovers can also be frozen in airtight containers for up to 2 months, though vegetables may soften slightly more upon reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to warm through without overcooking the chicken. You can also microwave individual servings covered loosely with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Avoid reheating too long to keep that tender, juicy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to swap in other low-carb veggies like asparagus, green beans, or mushrooms depending on your preference or what’s in season.
Do I have to use a grill or campfire?
Nope! While grilling or campfire cooking adds a lovely smoky flavor, you can easily bake the foil packets in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes if you prefer indoor cooking.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken and vegetables separately?
Marinating separately allows you to control the texture better—the chicken benefits from a longer soak while the vegetables only need a short time to avoid becoming mushy. However, if short on time, marinating together briefly will still yield tasty results.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply skip the Parmesan cheese garnish to keep the dish dairy-free. The marinade and veggies shine on their own without needing the cheese for flavor.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked inside the foil packet?
The easiest way is using a meat thermometer inserted through the foil—chicken is safe to eat at an internal temperature of 165°F. Alternatively, carefully open the packet and cut into a piece to check that the meat is opaque and juices run clear.
Final Thoughts
This Low-Carb Foil Packet Chicken and Vegetable Dinner Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and easy preparation can come together to create a wonderfully satisfying meal. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a healthy, flavorful dinner with minimal mess and maximum taste. I truly hope you give this recipe a go and find it becomes a trusted favorite in your weeknight rotation just like it is in mine!
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Low-Carb Foil Packet Chicken and Vegetable Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Low-Carb Foil Packet Dinner is a simple, flavorful, and healthy meal perfect for grilling or campfire cooking. Featuring marinated chicken breasts with colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, it offers a balanced, low-carb option that is easy to prepare and cook in foil packets for mess-free dining. Optional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley add a delicious finishing touch.
Ingredients
Protein
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Vegetables
- 2 red or green bell peppers
- 2 small red onions
- 2 medium zucchini
Marinade
- 1.5 cups Newman’s Own Classic Oil and Vinegar Dressing
- 1 packet Zesty Italian Dressing Mix
Optional Toppings
- Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking and better absorption of the marinade flavors.
- Make Marinade. In a bowl, combine Newman’s Own Classic Oil and Vinegar Dressing with the packet of Zesty Italian Dressing Mix to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate Chicken. Place the chicken pieces in a large Ziploc bag and pour in the marinade. Seal the bag and refrigerate for several hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat fully.
- Prepare Vegetables. Cut the bell peppers, red onions, and zucchini into bite-sized pieces. Then, marinate the vegetables separately in some of the marinade for 1-2 hours to enhance their taste.
- Assemble Foil Packets. Arrange portions of marinated chicken and vegetables onto large sheets of aluminum foil, creating individual packets for each serving. Seal the packets tightly to retain moisture during cooking.
- Cook Packets. Place the foil packets on a preheated grill or over a campfire. Cook for about 20 minutes, carefully checking that the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Garnish and Serve. Once cooked, open the foil packets carefully, garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
- Foil packets prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
- You can substitute the oil and vinegar dressing with your favorite Italian dressing if preferred.
- Adjust cooking time depending on the size of chicken pieces and grill intensity.
- Optional toppings like Parmesan cheese add umami and richness.
