Category: Tex-Mex

  • Mexican Street Corn Salad

    Mexican Street Corn Salad

    Mexican Street Corn Salad

    Mexican Street Corn Salad

    Ingredients:

    • 4 ears fresh corn (or thawed)
    • 1 tbsp Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing

    Sauce:

    • 1½ tablespoons mayo
    • 1 tsp fresh garlic, minced
    • Zest and juice of 1 lime
    • ¼ cup crumbled Cotija, or feta cheese
    • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika, or chili powder
    • ¼ teaspoon sea salt

    Instructions:

    Preheat a grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. Brush the corn with olive oil and grill for until char marks form (about 5 mins each side).

    Remove from grill and set aside.

    In a large bowl, combine the mayo, garlic, and lime zest and juice.

    Using a serrated knife, Slice the kernels off the corn and add to the bowl.

    Stir to coat, then add the cheese, smoked paprika, and salt.

    Season to taste and serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

    Notes:

    To make this spicy, add in freshly diced jalapeño peppers.

    Mexican Street Corn Salad
  • Taco Charcuterie Board

    Taco Charcuterie Board

    Taco Charcuterie Board

    Taco Charcuterie Board

    Equipment:

    • Large Board
    • Small Cups and Bowls
    • Skillet

    Yield: 4-6 servings

    Prep: 5 min

    Cook: 20 min

    Total: 25 min

    Ingredients:

    • 1 lb ground beef
    • 1 jar salsa (peach mango is shown)
    • 1 packet taco bell seasoning mix
    • ¼ cup water
    • 2 cups cooked chicken chopped
    • 1-2 cups Mexican blend cheese
    • 3-5 small colorful peppers
    • 10-12 cherry tomatoes diced
    • 2 cup shredded lettuce
    • 1/3 cup guacamole
    • 1/3 cup sour cream
    • 1/3 cup taco sauce
    • 8 hard shells
    • 8 soft shells

    Instructions:

    Brown the ground meat over medium high, drain if necessary.

    Add in the packet of taco seasoning and ¼ cup of water.

    Mix until combined, add ½ jar of salsa.

    Heat and stir until well mixed.

    Place a serving dish and put it in the center of the board.

    Next place your taco shells on opposite sides of the board.

    Add in all of your desired toppings lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, chicken, guacamole, sour cream and taco sauce.

    Add serving utensils and enjoy!

  • Beef Nacho Foil Packets

    Beef Nacho Foil Packets

    Fire up the grill, (or preheat your oven) gather the ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

    If you’re looking for an easy yet delicious meal option for your next cookout or camping trip with friends, look no further than these budget-friendly Beef Nacho Foil Packets.

    Perfectly seasoned ground beef is wrapped in individual foil packets and grilled until juicy and tender.

    Top it off with melted cheese and all your favorite nacho toppings—it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

    Chicken Nacho Foil Packets

    Grab that perfect pack of ground beef from the store and let’s get this party started!

    Beef Nacho Foil Packets

    Ingredients:

    • 1 bag tortilla chips
    • 2 cups cooked taco meat
    • 1 ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
    • 1 ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

    For serving: chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, diced onion, sliced jalapenos, avocado, sour cream

    Directions:

    Cut aluminum foil into squares.

    In the middle of the square, place a mound of tortilla chips. Top the chips with cheese and beef.

    Fold the aluminum foil over the chip and beef creating a pocket.

    Roll up any open edges to seal the pocket.

    For the oven:

    Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the foil packets on a large rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes or until the ingredients are heated through and the cheese is melted.

    For grilling:

    Prepare the grill for medium heat (about 350 degrees.) Place the foil packets on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes or until the ingredients have warmed through and the cheese has melted.

    To serve, place the open packet on a plate or in a bowl. Carefully open the foil packets. Top the nachos with additional toppings as desired.

    Notes: I used restaurant-style tortilla chips but any style can be used. These nachos can be personalized based on preference. Set up the ingredients like a taco bar and then prepare the nachos on the grill or in the oven.

    Beef Nacho Foil Packets

    Beef Nacho Foil Packets

    Ingredients

    • 1 bag tortilla chips
    • 2 cups cooked taco meat
    • 1 ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
    • 1 ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack
    • For serving: chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, diced onion, sliced jalapenos, avocado, sour cream

    Instructions

    1.Cut aluminum foil into squares.
    2.In the middle of the square, place a mound of tortilla chips. Top the chips with cheese and beef. Fold the aluminum foil over the chip and beef creating a pocket. Roll up any open edges to seal the pocket.
    3.For grilling: Prepare the grill for medium heat (about 350 degrees.) Place the foil packets on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes or until the ingredients have warmed through and the cheese has melted.
    4.For the oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the foil packets on a large rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes or until the ingredients are heated through and the cheese is melted.
    5.To serve, place the open packet on a plate or in a bowl. Carefully open the foil packets. Top the nachos with additional toppings as desired.

    Notes: I used restaurant-style tortilla chips but any style can be used. These nachos can be personalized based on preference. Set up the ingredients like a taco bar and then prepare the nachos on the grill or in the oven.

  • Chicken Nacho Foil Packets

    Chicken Nacho Foil Packets

    Tired of your typical weeknight dinner? Spice it up with Chicken Nacho Foil Packets – the perfect, easy meal for anyone that’s hungry!

    Chicken Nacho Foil Packets

    Easy Chicken Nacho Foil Packets – A Simple Southern Recipe with Big Flavor

    If you’re looking for a no-fuss dinner that’s packed with flavor and easy cleanup, these Chicken Nacho Foil Packets are the way to go.

    Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, cooking outdoors, or need something quick on a busy weeknight, this easy foil packet meal is a solid solution that delivers every time.

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    A Family-Friendly Chicken Nacho Recipe Everyone Can Customize

    One of the best parts of this chicken nacho foil packet recipe is how flexible it is. Got picky eaters? No problem.

    These nachos can be built individually, meaning every person gets what they want—no onions for one, extra jalapeños for another.

    You can set out the ingredients like a nacho bar and let everyone assemble their own foil packet before grilling or baking.

    This makes it a fun and easy dinner for kids and adults alike.

    Quick and Easy Dinner for Busy Nights

    With just 15 minutes of prep time, this easy chicken nacho recipe is perfect for those hectic evenings when time is tight and appetites are big.

    Using pre-cooked chicken speeds things up, and everything cooks right in the foil—no extra dishes to wash.

    Whether you’re coming home from work or feeding a crowd on game night, you can get this on the table fast.

    Perfect for Backyard Cookouts or Oven-Baked Comfort

    This recipe shines whether you’re cooking outside on the grill or inside in the oven. On warmer evenings, fire up the grill and keep the heat out of the kitchen.

    When the weather turns cool, toss these foil packets on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven.

    It’s the same great taste either way, and the cleanup stays easy no matter where you cook.

    Great for Tailgates, Camping Trips, and Casual Gatherings

    Chicken nacho foil packets also work great beyond the kitchen.

    They’re ideal for tailgating since you can prep everything ahead of time and heat them up right on the grill.

    Heading out on a camping trip? These foil packets are perfect for tossing on the fire.

    They’re also a hit at casual get-togethers—just set up a toppings bar, prep the foil packs, and let everyone make their own.

    Why This Chicken Nacho Foil Packet Recipe Works

    This recipe hits all the marks for an easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing meal. It’s:

    • Made with simple ingredients
    • Quick to assemble
    • Customizable for any taste
    • Great for indoor or outdoor cooking
    • Easy to clean up—just toss the foil

    And since the base is chips, cheese, chicken, and taco sauce, you’ve already got the foundation of a hearty, satisfying dish that everyone loves.

    How to Serve Chicken Nacho Foil Packets

    Once the foil packets come off the grill or out of the oven, the fun part begins—adding all the toppings.

    Fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, avocado—you can go as simple or as loaded as you like.

    Serve the open foil packets right on a plate or place them in a shallow bowl.

    They’re great on their own, or you can pair them with a side of black beans, grilled corn, or a fresh green salad.

    This easy chicken nachos in foil packets recipe is one of those go-to meals that works anytime—weeknights, weekends, summer cookouts, or even rainy day dinners inside.

    It’s flavorful, adaptable, and low-stress, which is exactly what every home cook needs in their back pocket.

    Chicken Nacho Foil Packets

    Ingredients:

    • 1 bag tortilla chips
    • 2 cups shredded or chopped cooked chicken
    • ½ cup taco sauce
    • 1 ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
    • 1 ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

    For serving: chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, diced onion, sliced jalapenos, avocado, sour cream

    Directions:

    In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, add the chicken and taco sauce. Stir to combine and heat for 5 to 8 minutes or until the chicken has heated through.

    Cut aluminum foil into squares.

    In the middle of the square, place a mound of tortilla chips. Top the chips with cheese and chicken. Fold the aluminum foil over the chip and chicken creating a pocket. Roll up any open edges to seal the pocket.

    For the oven:

    Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the foil packets on a large rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes or until the ingredients are heated through and the cheese is melted.

    For grilling:

    Prepare the grill for medium heat (about 350 degrees.) Place the foil packets on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes or until the ingredients have warmed through and the cheese has melted.

    To serve, place the open packet on a plate or in a bowl. Carefully open the foil packets. Top the nachos with additional toppings as desired.

    Notes: I used restaurant-style tortilla chips but any style can be used. These nachos can be personalized based on preference. Set up the ingredients like a taco bar and then prepare the nachos on the grill or in the oven.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Nacho Foil Packets

    1. Can I make chicken nacho foil packets ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prep everything in advance. Assemble the foil packets with chips, cooked chicken, taco sauce, and cheese. Keep them in the fridge for a few hours before grilling or baking. Wait to add fresh toppings like tomatoes, sour cream, or avocado until after cooking.

    2. What kind of chicken works best for nacho foil packets?
    Rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or leftover shredded chicken all work great. You want something that’s already cooked so the prep is quick and the foil packets heat evenly.

    3. Can I bake chicken nacho foil packets in the oven instead of grilling?
    Absolutely. Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the foil packets on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.

    4. What kind of tortilla chips should I use?
    Restaurant-style tortilla chips hold up well, but you can use your favorite kind. Thicker chips tend to stay crisp longer when heated in the foil.

    5. How do I keep the chips from getting soggy in the foil packet?
    To help keep the chips crisp, avoid adding too much moisture inside the foil. Use a slotted spoon when adding the chicken and don’t overload the packet with sauces. Serve fresh toppings after cooking to avoid extra moisture.

    6. What toppings go best with chicken nacho foil packets?
    Popular nacho toppings include diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, chopped onions, cilantro, avocado, sour cream, and even a squeeze of lime juice. These should be added after cooking for the best flavor and texture.

    7. Can I cook foil packet nachos over a campfire?
    Yes! Foil packet chicken nachos are great for camping. Wrap the foil packets tightly and place them near the hot coals (not directly in the flames) for 10–15 minutes, checking often to avoid burning.

    8. Can I use ground beef or another meat instead of chicken?
    Definitely. This recipe is very flexible. Swap the chicken for cooked ground beef, pulled pork, or even black beans for a meatless option.

    9. Is this foil packet nacho recipe good for kids?
    Yes, it’s a kid-friendly recipe. Let kids help build their own foil packets with the ingredients they like. It’s a fun, hands-on meal that even picky eaters enjoy.

    10. How should I serve the nacho foil packets?
    You can open the foil packet and serve it directly on a plate or in a shallow bowl. Add your favorite toppings after opening, and serve with a fork (or eat them straight off the foil—up to you!).

    Chicken Nacho Foil Packets

    Chicken Nacho Foil Packets

    Ingredients

    • 1 bag tortilla chips
    • 2 cups shredded or chopped cooked chicken
    • ½ cup taco sauce
    • 1 ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
    • 1 ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

    Instructions

    In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, add the chicken and taco sauce. Stir to combine and heat for 5 to 8 minutes or until the chicken has heated through.

    Cut aluminum foil into squares.

    In the middle of the square, place a mound of tortilla chips. Top the chips with cheese and chicken. Fold the aluminum foil over the chip and chicken creating a pocket. Roll up any open edges to seal the pocket.

    For the oven:

    Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the foil packets on a large rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes or until the ingredients are heated through and the cheese is melted.

    For grilling:

    Prepare the grill for medium heat (about 350 degrees.) Place the foil packets on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes or until the ingredients have warmed through and the cheese has melted.

    To serve, place the open packet on a plate or in a bowl. Carefully open the foil packets. Top the nachos with additional toppings as desired.

    Notes: I used restaurant-style tortilla chips but any style can be used. These nachos can be personalized based on preference. Set up the ingredients like a taco bar and then prepare the nachos on the grill or in the oven.

  • Chicken, Pork, and Beef Fajitas

    Chicken, Pork, and Beef Fajitas

    Enjoy these Chicken, Pork, and Beef Fajitas fresh off of the grill this summer! Create a fajita bar and serve your favorite sides to go with these tasty fajitas!

    Chicken, Pork, and Beef Fajitas

    Sometimes as a man, I just want to fire up the grill and cook some delicious meats.  Nothing fancy, just protein, fire, spices, and of course a rocking chair and a cold beer! 

    Fajitas are a great excuse for enjoying an easy and fun cooking experience, and they also feed a lot of people. Additionally, besides the grilled meats, fajitas are super easy because you can use pre made salsa, shredded cheese, sour cream, and guacamole to add to your fajita. 

    Sheet Pan Chili Lime Beef Fajitas

    You can use either a charcoal or propane grill, but if you use a charcoal grill like I did, wait until the coals are white.  Lots of folks think that this is when the fire is starting to die, but the truth is that this stage of the charcoal fire burns the most steady and consistent. 

    Too often, folks think that when there are orange flames and black coals then that’s the best time to grill your meat.  That’s just not the case!  Remember flames burn, and I don’t want to eat charred black meat.  So wait a few minutes, and let the flames die before putting your meat on the grill. 

    For the meat prep, I also kept it very simple.  I added 2 tsp each of table salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to an empty black pepper shaker.  That’s it!  I used 4 spices, mixed them well, put them in an old shaker, and then dusted skirt steak, pork chops, and boneless skinless chicken thighs. 

    Once I seasoned the meat, I covered them and put them in the fridge to marinate for an hour.  Once the fire in the grill was ready, I took each of the meats out of the fridge and let them cook while I sat on the porch, listened to music, and drank cold beer. 

    meats on a grill

    The size and type of meat determined how often I checked it and flipped it.  For the small pork chops, I only cooked them for about 4-5 minutes per side over a hot grill.  They were cut thin, and they were cooked through quickly. 

    pork on a grill
    pork chops

    The same with the chicken, however there were more pieces of chicken and the chicken didn’t have the same consistency of cuts as a pork chop does. 

    The chicken might take 12-15 minutes depending on the size of the chicken and the temperature of the grill.

    grilled chicken
    chicken fajitas

    Finally, for a large skirt steak, it will take at least 20 minutes.  It might even take longer if you have a guest that wants ZERO pink in the middle of their steak fajitas. 

    steak on the grill
    cut up steak

    Once the meat is done, let it rest.  Trust me, the meat is still hot and still cooking even after taking it off the grill.  Let the meat rest for at least 5 minutes. 

    Once you’ve let the meat rest, then slice it up! Next, you can set up  your side items to include cheese, sour cream, guacamole, etc. 

    Finally, take some tortillas and let them warm up on the grill for 1-2 minutes for each side of the tortilla.  Enjoy!

    tortillas on a grill
    stack of tortillas
    chicken, pork, and beef fajitas