Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (substitute with firm tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option)
- 3 medium red potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup baby carrots, halved lengthwise
- 1 medium bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Juice of half a lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). I find using a grill adds a smoky depth that always reminds me of evenings spent outdoors with Ouma, but the oven works beautifully too.
- Lay out four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, about 12 by 18 inches each. This size helps keep all the juicy goodness sealed in.
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, potatoes, carrots, bell pepper, and red onion.
- Add the minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss everything until the chicken and veggies are well coated. I like to think of this step as the moment where magic starts to happen, much like Mama Lou’s secret touch with her signature stews.
- Divide the mixture evenly among the foil sheets, placing it near the center of each.
- Squeeze a little lemon juice over each packet to brighten the flavors.
- Fold the foil over the ingredients and crimp the edges tightly to create a sealed packet. Be sure to leave a little space inside for steam to circulate—think of it as tucking in a child for the night, snug but breathing room intact.
- Place the foil packets on the grill grate or on a baking sheet if using the oven.
- Cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. If using a grill, turn the packets halfway through to ensure even cooking. When I’m camping with Ouma, this is the perfect time to share stories or roast marshmallows nearby.
- Carefully open the foil packets—watch out for the hot steam—and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
