Easy Campfire BBQ Chicken Sandwich Foil Pack: A Smoky, Sticky, No-Mess BBQ Favorite
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20-25 mins
Total Time: 35-40 mins
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite)
- 4 slices cheddar or pepper jack cheese
- 4 burger buns or sandwich rolls
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 slices cooked bacon (optional)
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
How to Make Easy Campfire BBQ Chicken Sandwich Foil Packs
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). For charcoal grills, set up a two-zone fire with coals on one side for direct heat and the other side for indirect cooking. For gas grills, preheat all burners and adjust as needed.
- In a bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Place the chicken directly on the grill grate over direct heat. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until it has beautiful grill marks and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from grill and let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice or shred.
- Cut 4 large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil (about 18 inches each). Place a bun bottom in the center of each sheet.
- Top each bun with a portion of the sliced or shredded chicken, then drizzle generously with BBQ sauce. Add sliced onions, a slice of cheese, and bacon (if using). Top with the bun top.
- Fold the foil over the sandwich and seal the edges tightly by folding them over several times to create a secure packet. Leave a little room inside for steam to circulate.
- Place the foil packets on the grill grate over indirect heat (or reduce the flame on a gas grill). Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sandwich is heated through.
- Carefully open the packets (careful of hot steam!). Add any additional toppings like lettuce, tomato, or pickles. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Grilling Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken Sandwich Foil Packs
- Use a two-zone fire: Sear the chicken over high direct heat, then use indirect heat for the final heating of the sandwiches to melt the cheese without burning the buns.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F, then remove them from the grill immediately.
- Toast the buns: For extra flavor, you can toast the buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes before assembling the sandwiches.
- Add extra smoky flavor: Toss a handful of soaked wood chips (hickory or mesquite) onto your charcoal or into a smoker box for your gas grill. The smoke will infuse the chicken with incredible campfire flavor.
- Make it a meal: Serve the sandwiches with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or grilled corn on the cob for a complete BBQ meal.
5 Delicious Variations
- Spicy Chipotle: Add 2 minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the BBQ sauce. Top with pepper jack cheese and pickled jalapeños.
- Honey Mustard: Swap the BBQ sauce for a honey mustard glaze. Top with Swiss cheese and bacon for a sweet and savory twist.
- Buffalo Chicken: Toss the chicken in buffalo sauce before assembling. Top with blue cheese crumbles and serve with ranch dressing.
- Hawaiian Style: Add a pineapple ring to each sandwich. The sweetness of the pineapple pairs perfectly with the smoky BBQ chicken.
- Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or a plant-based chicken alternative. The BBQ sauce and cheese still make it delicious.
Storage & Reheating
Storing leftovers: Allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Store the buns and toppings separately to prevent them from getting soggy.
Reheating without drying out: The best way to reheat the chicken is in a skillet over medium-low heat on the stovetop or back on the grill. Add a splash of BBQ sauce to keep it moist. Reheat the buns in the oven or toaster oven for the best texture.
Freezing: The cooked chicken freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to cook BBQ chicken sandwiches on the grill? Total cooking time is about 20-25 minutes. The chicken takes 10-12 minutes to grill, and the sandwiches need 8-10 minutes to heat through in the foil packets.
Can I use a gas grill instead of charcoal? Absolutely! Gas grills work perfectly for this recipe. Just preheat to medium-high for the chicken and use indirect heat or a cooler burner for the final heating of the sandwiches.
What temperature should the grill be for BBQ chicken sandwiches? Medium-high heat (375-400°F) for the chicken, then reduce to medium (about 325-350°F) for heating the sandwiches.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes! Chicken thighs are even more forgiving and stay juicier on the grill. Cook to an internal temperature of 170-175°F.
Can I prepare these packets ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the sandwiches and seal them in foil up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and add 3-5 minutes to the cooking time if cooking from cold.
