**Creamy Chicken and Couscous Foil Packets Recipe: A Tasty and Convenient Meal**
If you’re searching for a tasty, simple-to-prepare dish that involves minimal cleanup, creamy chicken and couscous foil packets are an excellent option. This recipe merges succulent chicken, savory couscous, and a creamy sauce, all cooked seamlessly in a handy foil packet. It’s ideal for a swift weeknight dinner or an enjoyable meal outdoors. Here’s how to create this wonderful dish.
**Ingredients:**
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup couscous
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup baby spinach
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Tear off four large pieces of aluminum foil, each roughly 12×18 inches, and put them aside.
2. **Season the Chicken:** In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mix evenly across both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. **Assemble the Packets:** Place a chicken piece in the center of each foil sheet. Evenly distribute the couscous among the packets, surrounding the chicken. Top the couscous with the cherry tomatoes and baby spinach.
4. **Add Liquid Ingredients:** In a small saucepan, warm the chicken broth and heavy cream over medium heat until it’s just warm. Pour approximately 1/2 cup of this mixture into each packet over the chicken and couscous.
5. **Seal the Packets:** Drizzle each packet with olive oil and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top. Fold the foil sides over the chicken, then fold the top and bottom edges to securely seal the packets, making sure no liquid can escape.
6. **Bake:** Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the couscous is tender.
7. **Serve:** Carefully open the foil packets, as steam will escape. Transfer the contents to plates, add fresh parsley if desired, and serve right away.
**Tips for Success:**
– **Customization:** Feel free to modify the vegetables according to your taste. Zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms would make great additions.
– **Grill Option:** These packets can also be grilled over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes.
– **Storage:** Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This creamy chicken and couscous foil packet recipe is not only savory but also exceedingly convenient. It’s a perfect option for those hectic evenings when you crave something delicious without the hassle of extensive cleanup. Savor the delightful mix of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fluffy couscous in every bite!