This Chicken and Potatoes sheet pan dinner is all about easy comfort and incredible flavor, perfect when you want a delicious meal without spending all evening in the kitchen. What makes this recipe truly special is how the chicken and veggies gently cook together inside the foil, sealing in every bit of savory goodness and aromatic herbs. Infused with garlic, fresh thyme, and a subtle kick from red pepper flakes, each bite is flavorful and tender.
Plus, cleanup couldn’t be easier—just unwrap, serve, and toss away the foil. It’s a fuss-free, tasty dinner you’ll return to again and again.”
Foil packet meals are one of my favorite no-fuss ways to cook for one. They’re simple to assemble, easy to clean up, and the flavors are always comforting and delicious. My go-to version is chicken breast baked in a foil packet with onions, carrots, and potatoes, but there are so many tasty variations you can try to keep things exciting! 10 different variations at the end of the post after the recipe card!
Ingredients
Sheet Pan Chicken Step by Step Photos
📝 Cooking Tips for Foil Packet Dinners:
- Use heavy-duty foil or double-layer if using regular foil.
- Place veggies on the bottom and chicken on top for even cooking.
- Seal the packet tightly but leave room for steam to circulate.
- Bake at 375°F for about 30–35 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken breast.
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Chicken en Papilotte
Ingredients
- vegetable oil spray this is to coat the foil
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1-2 garlic cloves peeled and sliced thin
- ⅛ teaspoon dried thyme
- red pepper flakes
- 1 yukon gold potato unpeeled, sliced 1/4 inch thick
- ½ carrot peeled, quartered lengthwise, and cut about 2-inch in length
- 1 slices red onion quarter the slice
- salt and pepper to season
- 1 (6-ounce) chicken breasts boneless, skinless
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice fresh squeezed
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh chives optional
Instructions
- Spray vegetable oil on the center of a large sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil.vegetable oil spray
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes and stir to mix.1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, 1-2 garlic cloves, ⅛ teaspoon dried thyme, red pepper flakes
- In a medium bowl, combine potato slices, carrots, onion slices, 1/8 teaspoon salt, and pour the garlic oil mixture into the bowl and stir together to coat the vegetables..1 yukon gold potato, ½ carrot, 1 slices red onion
- With a paper towel, pat chicken breast dry, season both sides with salt and pepper.1 (6-ounce) chicken breasts, salt and pepper to season
- Arrange potato slices in two rows in the center of the sheet of foil. Place the chicken breast on top of potatoes and surround with carrots and onions. Drizzle any leftover oil mixture over chicken.
- Fold foil packet tightly, sealing edges but leaving room inside. Chill packet for at least 1 hour (up to 24 hours).
- Preheat oven to 375°F, placing rack in the lowest position. Put foil packet on a rimmed baking sheet and bake until chicken reaches minimum 165°F (about 30-35 minutes). Use a thermometer to check temperature.
- Let packet rest for 3 minutes, then carefully open (watch for steam). Transfer contents to plates, drizzle with lemon juice, sprinkle with chives, and serve.2 teaspoons lemon juice, 2 teaspoons minced fresh chives
Notes
Nutrition Disclaimer
I am not a certified Dietitian or Nutritionist. The nutrition amounts given below is an estimate only and provided as a general guide only.
Nutrition
Chicken Breast Foil Packet Variations for Easy Dinners
Here are 10 easy and flavorful ways to change up your foil packet dinners. Each one is designed for solo cooking or small batch meals—perfect for empty nesters or anyone who just wants a cozy dinner for one.
🥫 1. Italian Style Chicken Packet
Veggies: Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers
Seasoning: Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, pepper
Extras: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving
🍋 2. Lemon Herb Chicken
Veggies: Carrots, potatoes, green beans or asparagus
Seasoning: Fresh thyme, rosemary, lemon slices, garlic
Sauce Tip: Drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice
🌶️ 3. Southwestern Chicken Packet
Veggies: Corn, black beans, red onion, bell pepper
Seasoning: Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika
Extras: Add shredded cheddar and a dollop of sour cream after baking
🍯 4. Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken
Veggies: Carrots, potatoes or parsnips
Sauce: Mix Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, and garlic
Flavor Boost: A splash of apple cider vinegar adds brightness
🍗 5. BBQ Chicken Packet
Veggies: Sweet potatoes, red onion, corn
Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce
Extras: A sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra depth
🧄 6. Greek-Inspired Chicken
Veggies: Red onion, zucchini, grape tomatoes, Kalamata olives
Seasoning: Oregano, garlic, lemon juice
Extras: Crumbled feta added after baking brings it all together
🍛 7. Curry-Spiced Chicken
Veggies: Cauliflower, peas, carrot slices
Seasoning: Curry powder, turmeric, garlic
Sauce Option: Add a spoonful of coconut milk or Greek yogurt before sealing the foil
🍄 8. French Country Style
Veggies: Pearl onions, mushrooms, carrots
Seasoning: Herbes de Provence, garlic
Sauce Tip: A tiny splash of white wine and a spoonful of Dijon mustard
🍆 9. Mediterranean Vibes
Veggies: Eggplant, bell peppers, red onion
Seasoning: Basil, oregano, garlic, lemon zest
Extras: Drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar before baking
🍱 10. Teriyaki Chicken Packet
Veggies: Broccoli, snow peas, carrots
Sauce: Store-bought or homemade teriyaki sauce
Extras: Sprinkle with sesame seeds just before serving
Foil packet meals are a wonderful way to enjoy a home-cooked dinner without a sink full of dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic, spicy, or fresh and herby—there’s a variation here to satisfy your craving.
✨ Which one will you try first? Let me know in the comments or tag me on social if you cook one of these!
Estimated Cost of Chicken & Potatoes Recipe
Based on average prices from major U.S. supermarket chains like Vons and Kroger, here’s an estimated cost breakdown for your recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Estimated Price | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vegetable oil spray | As needed for coating | $3.00 per can | $0.05 |
| Extra-virgin olive oil | 1 tablespoon | $0.26 per tbsp | $0.26 |
| Garlic cloves | 1–2 cloves | $0.64 per bulb | $0.10 |
| Dried thyme | ⅛ teaspoon (0.04 ounces) | $1.00 per ounce | $0.04 |
| Red pepper flakes | Pinch (0.02 ounces) | $0.37 per ounce | $0.01 |
| Yukon Gold potato | 1 medium (about 0.5 pounds) | $1.50 per pound | $0.75 |
| Carrot | ½ medium (about 0.25 pounds) | $0.88 per pound | $0.22 |
| Red onion | 1 slice (about 0.125 pounds) | $1.67 per pound | $0.21 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Minimal cost | $0.02 |
| Chicken breast | 1 (6 ounces or 0.375 pounds) | $6.00 per pound | $2.28 |
| Lemon juice (fresh squeezed) | 2 teaspoons (about 0.33 ounces) | $2.08 per pound | $0.14 |
| Fresh chives (optional) | 2 teaspoons (about 0.1 ounces) | $1.50 per bunch | $0.15 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $4.00 |
Notes:
love that one recipe can have so many tasty variations!