Easy BBQ Chicken Grill Packs: The Ultimate No-Mess Summer Dinner
Too hot to turn on the oven? These BBQ chicken grill packs are your fresh summer solution.
They deliver a smoky, sweet dinner without any of the mess. You will love how easy your warm evenings become with this simple method. It is the perfect meal for a busy weeknight outside.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
These packs are a total winner for busy summer weeknights. Every person gets their own individual, steaming portion. This makes them very kid-approved and fun for everyone to open.
The best part is the cleanup process. You have zero dishes to wash after you eat. Simply toss the foil away and enjoy your evening. It is a stress-free way to feed your family well.
Simple Method
Building these packs is a very simple process. You just toss the ingredients, layer them, and seal. Even if you are new to grilling, you can do this. The foil locks in moisture for perfectly tender chicken every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses fresh seasonal produce and simple pantry staples for the best flavor.
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup honey BBQ sauce, divided
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F / 205°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine chicken cubes with 0.5 cup of BBQ sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- In a large bowl, toss the zucchinis, bell peppers, and red onion with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Cut four 12×18 inch sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil and lay them flat on a work surface.
- Divide the vegetable mixture evenly among the center of the four foil sheets.
- Top the vegetables with the marinated chicken cubes.
- Drizzle the remaining 0.5 cup of BBQ sauce over the chicken in each packet.
- Fold the sides of the foil over the contents and seal the edges tightly to create a secure pouch, leaving a small amount of space for steam to circulate.
- Place the foil packs on the grill and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Carefully open the packets to release steam before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these BBQ chicken grill packs right in the foil for a rustic feel. Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions for a bright, fresh finish. They pair beautifully with a simple green salad or grilled corn. Set the patio table and enjoy the summer breeze while you eat.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. You can reheat the contents in a skillet over medium heat. Or, pop them back in the oven at 350°F until warm. They make wonderful lunches for the next day. The flavors often deepen after sitting overnight.
Tips for Best Results
- Use heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent any tearing on the grill.
- Don’t skip the garlic powder as it adds a savory base layer.
- Seal the edges very tightly to keep the juices inside the pack.
- Leave a little air space at the top for steam to circulate.
- For a fun twist, add a few chunks of fresh summer pineapple.
- Double the recipe if you are hosting a casual backyard gathering.
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is safely cooked.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the chicken for shrimp for an even faster cooking time.
- Use a spicy BBQ sauce if you prefer a little heat.
- Add fresh summer corn kernels for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Substitute maple syrup for the honey in the sauce for a deeper flavor.
Quick Answers
Can I make these in the oven?
Yes, you can bake these at 400°F for about 20 minutes. Just place the foil packs on a large baking sheet first. This is a great backup plan for rainy summer days.
What kind of foil should I use?
Heavy-duty foil is best for these BBQ chicken grill packs. It handles the heat of the grill much better than standard foil. It also prevents the bottom from burning too quickly.
Can I prep these ahead of time?
You can assemble the packs up to four hours before grilling. Keep them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook. This makes them perfect for stress-free entertaining.
I hope these easy grill packs make your summer evenings feel lighter and more delicious. Give them a try at your next sunset dinner. Happy grilling!
— Clara
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F / 205°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine chicken cubes with 0.5 cup of BBQ sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- In a large bowl, toss the zucchinis, bell peppers, and red onion with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Cut four 12x18 inch sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil and lay them flat on a work surface.
- Divide the vegetable mixture evenly among the center of the four foil sheets.
- Top the vegetables with the marinated chicken cubes.
- Drizzle the remaining 0.5 cup of BBQ sauce over the chicken in each packet.
- Fold the sides of the foil over the contents and seal the edges tightly to create a secure pouch, leaving a small amount of space for steam to circulate.
- Place the foil packs on the grill and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Carefully open the packets to release steam before serving.
