Chicken, Sausage, Potatoes, Broccoli, and Corn Foil Packets
This foil packet meal brings all the comforts of a classic sheet-pan dinner to the grill for an easy, hands-off cookout favorite. Juicy diced chicken meets savory turkey sausage, tender red potatoes, sweet corn rounds, and crisp broccoli florets, all kissed with olive oil, butter, and a blend of warm, aromatic seasonings. The packets steam in their own juices, producing a wonderful mix of textures: the chicken stays moist, the potatoes cook through but keep a bit of bite, and the corn and broccoli retain bright flavor and slight crunch. Expect an inviting aroma of garlic, paprika, and grilled butter, and a satisfying, rustic presentation when you peel back the foil. This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, backyard barbecues, camping trips, or any time you want a flavorful, low fuss meal that cleans up in seconds.
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts, diced,
lean protein cut into bite sized pieces for even cooking. - 1 turkey sausage link, sliced,
adds smoky, savory flavor and a meaty contrast. - 4 small red potatoes, chopped,
hold their shape well and give a creamy, earthy bite. - 2 ears of corn, sliced into rounds,
sweet, juicy kernels that grill nicely in packets. - 1–2 cups broccoli florets,
choose the amount you like for more or less green and crunch. - Kinder’s Grilled Chicken Seasoning,
a ready blend that enhances the chicken with smoky notes. - Garlic powder,
for a warm, mellow garlic background. - Onion powder,
adds subtle savory depth without raw onion texture. - Paprika,
gives color and a mild, slightly sweet pepper flavor. - Oregano,
a touch of herbaceous warmth to balance the spices. - Olive oil,
helps distribute seasonings and encourages even cooking. - Steakhouse potato seasoning,
extra flavor targeted to the potatoes for a hearty taste. - Seasoning salt,
for overall seasoning and a touch of saltiness. - Garlic & herb seasoning,
layers additional herb and garlic notes across the packet. - Lemon juice,
brightens and lifts the rich flavors when squeezed over at the end. - Butter (small pats for each packet),
melts into the mix for richness and a glossy finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. Cut large pieces of aluminum foil at least 12 inches long.
Tip: Use heavy duty foil if you have it for easier handling and less likelihood of tearing. - In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, sliced turkey sausage, chopped red potatoes, corn rounds, and broccoli florets. Toss gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Drizzle the mixture with olive oil and sprinkle on Kinder’s Grilled Chicken Seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, steakhouse potato seasoning, seasoning salt, and garlic & herb seasoning. Toss again to coat everything evenly.
- Divide the seasoned mixture among the foil pieces and arrange the ingredients in a single layer so the heat reaches them uniformly. Place small pats of butter on top of each packet.
- Fold and seal the foil tightly, creating well sealed packets to trap steam while cooking.
- Place the packets on the grill and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, rotating them halfway through for even heat.
Tip: If your grill runs hot, check at 20 minutes to avoid overcooking; try to keep the packets sealed until the end. - Remove the packets from the grill, let them cool slightly for a couple of minutes, then carefully open and squeeze a little lemon juice over the contents before serving.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 to 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 to 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 480 per serving
Tips, Storage & Variations
- Tips:
- Cut ingredients into similar sized pieces so everything cooks evenly in the packet.
- If you prefer softer potatoes, cut them smaller or parboil for 3 to 4 minutes before assembling.
- Place protein toward the center of each packet and vegetables around the edges for even heat flow.
- Storage:
- Refrigerate leftover cooked packets in an airtight container up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a warm oven or on the grill until heated through, keeping them covered to retain moisture.
- Freezing:
- Assemble and seal packets raw, then freeze flat for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before grilling, or cook from frozen and add 10 to 15 minutes to the grill time.
- Flavor variations using only the listed ingredients:
- Butter and Lemon Boost: Add an extra squeeze of lemon juice and an additional pat of butter for a brighter, richer finish.
- Garlic Herb Forward: Increase garlic powder and garlic & herb seasoning for a more pronounced garlic and herb profile.
- Steakhouse Potato Focus: Use a heavier sprinkle of steakhouse potato seasoning on the potatoes for a bolder, savory potato note.
- Smoky Paprika Twist: Add a bit more paprika and a touch of Kinder’s Grilled Chicken Seasoning to emphasize smoky notes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked in the packet?
A: Cut a piece to check that it is no longer pink inside and juices run clear, or use a meat thermometer to confirm it reaches 165 F.
Q: Can I open the packets while cooking to check?
A: Yes, but opening lets steam escape and may increase cook time slightly, so reseal quickly if you check partway through.
Q: Will the potatoes cook through in 25 to 30 minutes?
A: Small chopped red potatoes usually cook through in that time. If potatoes are larger, cut them smaller or parboil briefly before assembling.
Q: Is it safe to cook foil packets on a grill?
A: Yes, as long as you use food safe aluminum foil and avoid placing packets directly over very high flames that could burn them.
Q: Can I add lemon juice before cooking?
A: It is best to squeeze lemon juice after cooking for the brightest flavor and to prevent the acid from affecting texture during cooking.
People Also Ask
Q: What grill temperature is best for foil packet meals?
A: Medium heat provides steady cooking without burning the foil or overcooking the exterior.
Q: How do I prevent foil packets from bursting on the grill?
A: Seal them tightly and avoid overfilling. Rotate packets gently to prevent hot spots.
Q: Can I make these packets in the oven instead of on the grill?
A: Yes, bake at 400 F for about 25 to 30 minutes or until chicken and potatoes are cooked through.
Q: Should I use olive oil or butter inside the packet?
A: Use both for best results: olive oil to coat and distribute seasonings, and pats of butter for richness and flavor.
Q: How many packets should I make for four people?
A: Divide the mixture into four evenly sized packets so each person gets a balanced portion.
Q: Can I add more broccoli or corn if I prefer more vegetables?
A: Yes, adjust the broccoli to 2 cups or increase corn rounds as desired; just keep pieces even for consistent cooking.
Q: What is the best way to serve these foil packets?
A: Serve them right from the foil on plates, finishing with a squeeze of lemon juice and extra seasoning if needed.
Q: How long can I freeze assembled raw packets?
A: Up to 3 months in a freezer safe container. Thaw before grilling for best results.
Conclusion
These Chicken, Sausage, Potatoes, Broccoli, and Corn Foil Packets are a reliable, flavorful option for quick weeknights and relaxed outdoor meals alike. The easy assembly, minimal cleanup, and flexible seasoning make this a repeat favorite for family dinners and gatherings. For additional foil packet ideas and seasoning inspiration, try the Chicken Sausage, Potato & Broccoli Foil Packet guide or compare techniques with the Sausage and Potato Foil Packet Recipe. Give this recipe a try, share how it turned out, and enjoy the cozy, satisfying flavors with family and friends.