Bbq Chicken: To Foil Or Not To Foil?

BBQ chicken foil packs are a convenient and tasty way to prepare chicken. The chicken is covered in BBQ sauce and cooked on the grill inside foil packs with vegetables. This method makes both cooking and cleanup easy. The foil packs can be prepared ahead of time and cooked on the grill or in the oven.

Pros and cons of grilling vs. baking BBQ chicken in foil

Grilling and baking BBQ chicken in foil are two popular methods of cooking this dish, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some pros and cons of each method:

Grilling BBQ Chicken in Foil:

Pros:

• Grilling chicken in foil packs is a convenient way to cook juicy and tender chicken with minimal cleanup required.
• It allows you to cook the chicken with your choice of vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, or frozen mixed veggies.
• Grilling imparts a unique smoky flavour to the chicken that is difficult to replicate with other cooking methods.
• Grilling is a quick cooking method, with most recipes requiring around 20-25 minutes of cooking time on the grill.

Cons:

• Grilling may require a bit more attention and monitoring to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• It can be challenging to control the temperature on a grill, which may affect cooking times.
• Grilling is typically an outdoor cooking method, which may not be feasible during certain weather conditions.

Baking BBQ Chicken in Foil:

Pros:

• Baking BBQ chicken in foil is a versatile cooking method that can be done in an oven, offering convenience during inclement weather.
• It provides more control over the cooking temperature, making it easier to monitor the doneness of the chicken.
• Baking can be a more hand-off approach, allowing you to focus on other tasks while the chicken cooks.
• Baking is a great option for making larger batches of BBQ chicken, as most ovens offer more space than grill grates.

Cons:

• Baking may result in a slightly different texture and flavour compared to grilling, lacking the characteristicsection of grilled chicken.
• Depending on your oven's performance, baking times may vary, and it can be challenging to achieve the same level of browning as grilling.
• While baking is convenient for larger batches, it may require more time to cook multiple batches if your oven space is limited.

The best BBQ sauce to use

BBQ chicken foil packs are a great option for a simple, family-friendly meal. They are easy to cook and require minimal cleanup.

When it comes to choosing the best BBQ sauce to use, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. You can opt for a store-bought brand or make your own at home. Here are some factors and options to consider:

Sweet and Tangy Sauce

If you prefer a sauce that strikes a balance between sweetness and tanginess, consider a recipe that includes ingredients like ketchup, coconut sugar or brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder. This type of sauce pairs well with chicken and can also be used on veggies, steak, or as a dip.

Spicy Sauce

For those who enjoy a kick of heat, you can modify your BBQ sauce by adding more cayenne pepper, chili powder, or using chipotle chili powder. This will give your sauce a smokier flavor profile.

Kansas City-Style BBQ Sauce

If you're feeling adventurous, you can try making your own Kansas City-Style BBQ sauce, which is known for its thick, sweet, and smoky flavor. It often includes ingredients such as ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, vinegar, and a blend of spices.

Store-Bought Options

If you're short on time or prefer the convenience of a ready-made sauce, there are numerous store-bought options available. You can choose from a variety of brands and flavors, such as sweet and tangy, smoky, or spicy, to find one that suits your taste preferences.

Remember, the key to a successful BBQ chicken foil pack is to use a sauce that you enjoy and to apply it at the right time during cooking. For the best results, brush the sauce onto the chicken about 10 minutes before it's ready to come off the grill. This will allow the sauce to caramelize without burning.

The best vegetables to include

Grilling vegetables is a fantastic way to add a smoky flavour to your meal, and there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best vegetables to include when grilling alongside chicken:

Peppers

Bell peppers are a popular choice for grilling, as they are easy to handle and provide a contrast of colours, textures, and flavours. They can be cut into large pieces to avoid having to turn them frequently on the grill. Red, green, and yellow bell peppers are all great options, and they pair well with the other vegetables and chicken.

Zucchini

Zucchini is another versatile vegetable that can be grilled. It has a mild flavour and soft texture, making it a perfect complement to the other ingredients. Zucchini can be cut into thin rounds or slices and placed around the chicken breast. Grilled zucchini also goes well with ricotta and walnuts, adding a creamy element to the dish.

Asparagus

Asparagus is a delicious and healthy option for grilling. It cooks quickly and pairs well with other grilled vegetables. It can be seasoned with salt and pepper and drizzled with olive oil before grilling. Asparagus stalks can be thick or thin, depending on your preference.

Onions

Red onions, in particular, add a nice touch of sweetness to the dish. They can be diced or cut into wedges and placed on the foil sheets along with the chicken. Onions are a versatile vegetable that can enhance the flavour of the other ingredients.

Corn

Corn on the cob is a classic choice for grilling, and it is easy to prepare. Grilled corn can be served as a side dish or cut into rounds and added to skewers with other vegetables. It provides a crispy texture and a slightly charred flavour that pairs well with the chicken.

Eggplant

Eggplant is another great option for grilling, as it has a unique texture and flavour. It can be cut into semi-circles or thick slices and grilled until tender. Eggplant absorbs flavours well, so it is an excellent choice for a marinade.

When grilling chicken and vegetables in foil, it is essential to cut the vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. This way, you can get a variety of flavours and textures in each bite. Additionally, using a durable foil, such as heavy-duty aluminium foil, can make the process easier and reduce the risk of tearing.

How to fold the foil

To fold the foil for BBQ chicken, follow these steps:

• Cut four large sheets of heavy-duty foil, each measuring about 18 by 12 inches.
• Place the sheets on a flat surface and put your chosen ingredients in the centre of each sheet. You can use veggies, chicken, and a sauce of your choice.
• Bring the long sides of the foil up and over the ingredients so that the ends meet above the food.
• Double-fold the ends, ensuring there is room for heat to circulate inside.
• Double-fold the two shorter ends to seal the packet. Make sure the packet is tight so that no steam escapes.
• Place the foil packets on a preheated grill over medium-high heat or in an oven at 375-425°F.
• Cook for around 35-55 minutes, depending on the ingredients and cooking method.
• Carefully open the foil packets and brush the chicken with any remaining sauce.
• Cook for a further 3-5 minutes, uncovered.
• Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.

How to avoid tearing the foil

To avoid tearing the foil when preparing BBQ chicken foil packs, it is recommended to use a heavy-duty aluminium foil. This type of foil is thicker and stronger, reducing the risk of tearing, even with heavier foods.

When preparing the foil packs, it is important to ensure that the foil is large enough to wrap around the chicken and any accompanying vegetables. For added durability, you can also double up the foil by placing two sheets one on top of the other.

To create the foil packs, start by centring the food on the foil sheet. Bring the long sides of the foil up and over the food so that the ends meet. Double fold these ends to create a tight seal, leaving enough room for heat to circulate inside. Finally, double fold the two short ends to completely seal the packet.

By following these steps and using the correct type of foil, you can avoid tearing and ensure your BBQ chicken foil packs stay intact during cooking.

Frequently asked questions