There’s something so fun about meals that come together in individual foil packs.
This Fiesta Lime Chicken – Rice Foil Pack is loaded with tender chicken, zesty lime rice, beans, and gooey cheese—all wrapped up and cooked to perfection.
It’s a simple, no-fuss dinner that’s big on flavor and easy cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The chicken is marinated in a tangy lime and spice blend for maximum flavor.
Cooking everything in foil packs makes cleanup a breeze.
Rice, beans, chicken, and cheese come together for a hearty, complete meal.
You can bake them in the oven or toss them on the grill for summer dinners.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Chicken breasts provide lean, protein-rich flavor.
Fresh lime juice brightens both the marinade and the rice.
Chili powder and cumin add bold Southwestern spice.
Black beans make the packs hearty and filling.
Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully on top.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Slice large chicken breasts in half for even cooking.
Don’t skip pre-cooking the rice—it ensures it finishes perfectly in the foil.
Seal the foil packs tightly to lock in steam and flavor.
Add toppings like avocado or salsa just before serving for extra freshness.
How to Make Fiesta Lime Chicken – Rice Foil Packs
Step 1 – Marinate the chicken
Whisk soy sauce, lime juice, water, oil, cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder.
Toss chicken in marinade and chill 15–30 minutes.
Step 2 – Prep the rice
Boil rice for 5 minutes, drain, then stir in chili powder and lime juice. Set aside.
Step 3 – Assemble the foil packs
Lay out 12-inch foil squares.
Add rice, beans, and one piece of chicken to each. Seal tightly.
Step 4 – Cook the packs
Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes or grill over medium heat, flipping once.
Step 5 – Melt the cheese
Open packs, top with cheese, and return for 3–4 minutes until melted.
Step 6 – Add toppings
Finish with avocado, salsa, sour cream, or cilantro as desired.
What to Serve Them With
Pair with tortilla chips and guacamole for a Tex-Mex feast.
Serve alongside grilled corn for extra flavor.
Enjoy with a light salad to balance the richness.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap chicken for shrimp or steak strips.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice.
Add bell peppers or zucchini to the foil packs for extra veggies.
Try pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Leftover chicken and rice also make great taco fillings.
FAQs
Can I make these foil packs ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking or grilling.
Do I need to pre-cook the rice?
Yes, partially cooking ensures it’s fluffy and tender in the foil.
Can I use canned beans?
Absolutely—just rinse and drain them first.
What if I don’t have foil?
You can bake everything in a covered casserole dish instead.
Can I freeze the foil packs?
It’s best fresh, but you can freeze assembled uncooked packs for up to 2 months.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
It should reach 165°F at the thickest part.
Final Thoughts
This Fiesta Lime Chicken – Rice Foil Pack is a quick, flavorful meal perfect for busy nights or outdoor grilling.
It’s customizable, hearty, and requires almost no cleanup—truly a family favorite.
Fiesta Lime Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Whisk marinade ingredients. Coat chicken and chill 15–30 minutes.
- Boil rice 5 minutes, drain, and stir in chili powder and lime juice.
- Lay out foil squares, divide rice, beans, and chicken. Seal tightly.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes or grill over medium heat, flipping once.
- Open packs, add cheese, and cook 3–4 minutes more until melted.
- Add toppings and serve.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/fiesta-lime-chicken/
Notes
- Use foil packs for easy cleanup and outdoor grilling.
- Add grilled corn or salsa for extra flavor.
- Monterey Jack melts beautifully, but cheddar or pepper jack work too.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.