Can I prepare these packets ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the foil packets up to a day in advance and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. It’s a great solution for meal prep or entertaining.

What if I don’t have chicken sausage?

You can swap in almost any pre-cooked sausage—turkey, pork, or even veggie sausage work well. Just slice thin so everything cooks nicely together.

How do I know when the packets are done cooking?

Open one carefully (watch the steam!) and check that the veggies are fork-tender and the sausage is hot throughout. If not, reseal and cook for a few more minutes.

Can I add potatoes or other root veggies?

Definitely! Just keep in mind that denser veggies like potatoes and carrots will need to be sliced thinly or parboiled to ensure everything finishes cooking together.

Chicken Sausage and Vegetable Foil Packet Dinner Recipe

Looking for a dinner that practically cooks itself, leaves almost no mess behind, and bursts with sunny, Mediterranean-inspired flavor? This Chicken Sausage and Vegetable Foil Packet Dinner is about to become your weeknight hero. Loaded with tangy sundried tomato chicken sausage and heaps of vibrant veggies, this recipe delivers juicy, caramelized bites and fresh herbal notes in every forkful. It’s a one-step meal that’s both wholesome and wildly flavorful, yet so easy you’ll swear you’ve tricked dinnertime itself. Whether you grill outdoors or roast these packets in your oven, you’ll have a nutritious, colorful meal on the table in just over half an hour—no fancy equipment required.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ridiculously Simple: Toss, wrap, and cook—that’s really it! It’s perfect for hectic evenings or when you want minimal cleanup.
Flavor-Packed: Thanks to the sundried tomato chicken sausage, tons of fresh veggies, and a garden’s worth of herbs, every bite is savory, juicy, and deeply satisfying.
Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with protein, fiber, and antioxidant-rich veggies. There’s so much goodness here you’ll feel great after dinner.
No-Fuss Clean-Up: The magic of foil packets means you can forget about soaking pans after dinner. Just recycle your foil and you’re done!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a peek at the simple, superstar ingredients that make this recipe shine.
Don’t worry about measuring—this is all about flavor and ease!

Sundried Tomato Chicken Sausage: The true flavor bomb. Provides juicy, savory goodness with a hint of tang from the sundried tomato.
Green Beans: Add a satisfying crunch and tidy up your veggie drawer.
Red and Yellow Bell Peppers: Sweet, colorful, and perfect for getting in those vitamins and a little natural sweetness.
Red Onion: For a gentle bite and pop of color—so much tastier than yellow or white onion here.
Zucchini & Yellow Summer Squash: Tender, juicy, and they soak up all those herby flavors. Plus, who doesn’t love a little color variety?
Olive Oil: The secret to caramelized, glossy vegetables. Don’t skimp!
Garlic: Freshly grated for zesty punch—trust me, it makes a difference.
Fresh Thyme: Bright, lemony, and totally worth seeking out. Dried thyme works, but fresh is next-level.
Dried Oregano & Basil: Essential for that Italian-inspired herby depth.
Kosher Salt: Helps bring out all the natural flavors and keeps everything well-seasoned.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For a gentle, warming heat—adjust to your preference!

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Love a recipe you can riff on? Here are a few easy swaps and ideas:

Switch Up the Protein: Use spicy chicken sausage for a kick, or try turkey sausage if that’s more your style. Even thick slices of tofu or chickpeas can work for a vegetarian version.
Add More Veggies: Toss in mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or thin asparagus for extra flavor and texture.
Herb Swap: Out of basil or thyme? Fresh rosemary or Italian parsley are lovely, too.
Cheesy Upgrade: For extra richness, sprinkle a little parmesan or mozzarella in the packets for the last five minutes of cooking.

How to Make Chicken Sausage and Vegetable Foil Packet Dinner

Step 1: Prep Your Grill or Oven

Heat your grill to medium-high, or set your oven to 425°F.
If grilling, preheat with the lid closed for the best results.

Step 2: Toss Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine the chicken sausage, green beans, bell peppers, red onion, zucchini, yellow squash, olive oil, garlic, thyme, oregano, basil, salt, and (if you love a little heat) crushed red pepper flakes. Toss until everything is evenly coated and glistening.

Step 3: Assemble the Foil Packets

Lay out four large pieces of foil (about 16 inches each). Evenly divide the sausage and veggie mixture onto the center of each. Gather the sides, bring them up to make a tight, sealed packet with no holes.
If your foil feels thin or the packets are overloaded, double-wrap to avoid any leaks.

Step 4: Cook

Place the packets directly on your grill (or on a baking sheet if using the oven). Cook for about 20 minutes, flipping the packets halfway through grill time. Check for doneness by carefully opening a packet (watch for hot steam)—the vegetables should be tender and aromatic, and the sausage perfectly heated through.

Step 5: Serve

Slide the contents of each packet onto a plate and dig in. That incredible aroma is your reward for almost zero effort!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overload the Packets: Dividing evenly ensures quick, even cooking. Overstuffed packets may steam rather than roast.
No Grill? No Problem!: The oven works beautifully and gives you that same caramelized, savory result.
Use Fresh Garlic & Herbs: Grating the garlic disperses its flavor throughout. If you only have dried herbs, just use a bit less than you would fresh.
Open Carefully: Steam builds up inside the packets, so always open away from your face!

How to Serve

These foil packets are so flavorful and hearty, they’re honestly a complete meal as-is. But for a little extra fun, here are a few pairings and presentation ideas:

Plate It Up: Gently slide everything onto a big plate and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Crusty Bread: Sop up the garlicky juices with a good piece of sourdough or a warm baguette.

Grain Bowl: Serve the sausage and veggies over farro or quinoa for a filling grain bowl twist.

Picnic-Friendly: Keep packets closed until ready to serve—perfect for lunches outside or backyard gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover packets can be stored (sealed or transferred to airtight containers) in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Veggies will continue to soak up flavor, making next-day lunches even better!

Freezing

Foil packets freeze well before cooking if you want a make-ahead meal. Assemble, double-wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as usual.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through. For the microwave, transfer to a microwave-safe dish and heat until hot.

FAQs

Can I prepare these packets ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the foil packets up to a day in advance and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. It’s a great solution for meal prep or entertaining.
What if I don’t have chicken sausage?

You can swap in almost any pre-cooked sausage—turkey, pork, or even veggie sausage work well. Just slice thin so everything cooks nicely together.
How do I know when the packets are done cooking?

Open one carefully (watch the steam!) and check that the veggies are fork-tender and the sausage is hot throughout. If not, reseal and cook for a few more minutes.
Can I add potatoes or other root veggies?

Definitely! Just keep in mind that denser veggies like potatoes and carrots will need to be sliced thinly or parboiled to ensure everything finishes cooking together.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so rewarding about lifting the lid on a foil packet and inhaling a cloud of garlicky, herby steam! This Chicken Sausage and Vegetable Foil Packet Dinner is as easy as weeknight cooking gets—effortless, endlessly customizable, and always full of sunny, hearty flavor. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it makes a repeat appearance on your table all summer (and winter) long. Happy cooking!