Are you planning an exciting camping trip but dreading the hassle of cooking? Forget those sad, soggy sandwiches! This post is packed with easy camping chicken recipes that are delicious, require minimal equipment, and won't leave you stuck over a smoky campfire for hours. These healthy meals are perfect for quick dinner ideas and will impress even the pickiest campers. Get ready for campfire cooking that's both simple and satisfying!
Campfire Foil Packet Chicken and Veggies
This recipe is a classic for a reason: it's easy, customizable, and cleanup is a breeze! Everything cooks together in a foil packet, minimizing dishes and maximizing flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup chopped vegetables (potatoes, carrots, onions, bell peppers – your favorites!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried herbs (Italian seasoning, herbs de Provence, or a custom blend)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prep the ingredients: Wash and chop your vegetables. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Assemble the packets: Tear off large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Place about 1/3 of the chicken and vegetables in the center of each sheet.
- Season generously: Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Seal tightly: Fold the foil over the ingredients, crimping the edges to create a sealed packet. Make sure there are no gaps to prevent leaks.
- Cook over the campfire: Place the foil packets directly on the hot coals or on a grill grate over the fire. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Flip halfway through for even cooking.
- Serve: Carefully open the foil packets (be mindful of steam!) and serve directly from the packet.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, add a splash of chicken broth or lemon juice to the packets.
- If you're using thicker vegetables like potatoes, consider pre-chopping them into smaller pieces for faster cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the foil packets. This can prevent even cooking.
One-Pan Campfire Chicken Fajitas
This quick dinner idea requires minimal cleanup and delivers big on flavor. Perfect for a fun and easy camping meal!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 packet fajita seasoning
- Olive oil
- Tortillas
- Your favorite toppings (salsa, sour cream, guacamole)
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the chicken strips, bell pepper, and onion with olive oil and fajita seasoning.
- Cook on a cast iron skillet: Heat a cast iron skillet over the campfire. Add the chicken and vegetable mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp (about 10-15 minutes).
- Serve: Serve immediately with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- For a spicier kick, use a hot fajita seasoning or add some chopped jalapeños.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, Campfire Foil Packet Chicken and Veggies):
- Calories: 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
Enjoy these easy camping chicken recipes on your next adventure! They're sure to be a hit with everyone, and they'll make your camping trip even more memorable. Happy camping!