Print

Flavorful Tin Foil Campfire Dinner Recipe with Tender Chicken and Veggies Made Easy

tin foil campfire dinner - featured image

A simple and delicious tin foil campfire dinner featuring tender chicken breasts and colorful vegetables, perfect for camping or easy indoor cooking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 700g)
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced thinly
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
  • 1 small zucchini, sliced
  • 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • Optional: 1 cup baby potatoes, halved
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh if available
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables (10 minutes): Rinse and pat dry the chicken breasts. Slice the vegetables as described. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, carrots, bell pepper, zucchini, onion, and optional potatoes.
  2. Season Well (5 minutes): Add minced garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Pour in the olive oil or add butter cut into small pieces. Toss everything gently until well coated. Add lemon juice if using.
  3. Assemble the Foil Packets (5 minutes): Tear off 4 large sheets of heavy-duty foil (about 12×12 inches each). Divide the chicken and veggie mixture evenly among the sheets, placing them in the center. Fold the foil over and seal edges tightly to create packets.
  4. Cook Over Campfire or Grill (20-25 minutes): Place foil packets on hot coals or grill grate over medium heat. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. If using an oven, preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake for the same time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Check and Serve (2 minutes): Carefully remove packets and let rest for a couple of minutes before opening. Serve hot.

Notes

Place packets on embers rather than direct flames to avoid charring. Flip packets halfway through cooking for even heat distribution. Let packets rest after cooking to redistribute juices. For smoky flavor, add a small wood chip inside the foil. Can be cooked in oven or on stovetop grill pan if no campfire is available. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or plant-based margarine.

Nutrition

Keywords: campfire dinner, tin foil dinner, chicken recipe, easy camping meal, foil packet recipe, outdoor cooking, quick dinner, healthy chicken dinner