Description
Make dinnertime easy, flavorful, and mess-free with these Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Foil Packets! Tender chicken breasts are nestled on top of seasoned rice and smothered in zesty salsa verde, then wrapped in foil and baked to perfection. The result? A perfectly cooked, all-in-one meal with bold flavor, minimal cleanup, and maximum comfort.
Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a backyard cookout, or need a simple oven-baked dinner, these foil packets are the way to go. Plus, they’re endlessly customizable with your favorite toppings!
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Ingredients
Makes 4 foil packets:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
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1½ cups instant white rice (uncooked)
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1½ cups salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
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½ cup chicken broth
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp cumin
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (optional)
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¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
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Lime wedges (for serving)
Optional Toppings:
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Diced avocado
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Sour cream or Greek yogurt
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Jalapeño slices
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Crushed tortilla chips
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Extra salsa verde or hot sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven or Grill
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
If grilling, heat your grill to medium-high.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a bowl, drizzle chicken with olive oil and season with garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Rub the seasoning all over both sides of each chicken breast.
Step 3: Prepare the Foil Packets
Tear four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil (about 12×18 inches).
To the center of each foil sheet, add:
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â…“ cup uncooked instant rice
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2–3 tbsp chicken broth
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¼ cup salsa verde
Place a seasoned chicken breast on top of the rice.
Spoon another 2–3 tbsp of salsa verde over the chicken.
Step 4: Seal the Packets
Fold the long sides of the foil over the chicken, then fold the ends in tightly to seal, creating a packet.
Make sure the seal is tight so the steam stays trapped inside.
Step 5: Bake or Grill
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Oven: Place packets on a baking sheet and bake for 30–35 minutes.
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Grill: Place packets directly on the grill and cook for 25–30 minutes.
Check for doneness—chicken should reach 165°F and rice should be tender.
Step 6: Add Cheese & Finish
Carefully open each packet (watch for steam).
Sprinkle cheese over the chicken and rice.
Close the foil loosely and let sit for 2–3 minutes to melt the cheese.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Top with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and any extra toppings you love.
Serve directly in the foil or transfer to plates for easier eating.
Notes
Use Instant Rice – Regular rice won’t cook properly in foil.
Even Chicken Thickness – Pound thicker chicken pieces to ensure even cooking.
Keep It Sealed – A tight seal traps steam and cooks everything evenly.
Make It Ahead – Assemble packets up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Rest Before Opening – Let packets sit a minute after cooking to finish steaming and keep juices inside.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: American (Mexican-inspired)