This chicken dish is a wonderful blend of juicy chicken breasts, creamy Brie cheese, and tart cranberries. It’s like a little party of flavors in every bite!
Plus, who can resist melty cheese wrapped in chicken? It’s fancy enough for guests but easy enough for a cozy night in. I enjoy serving it with a side of veggies for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for stuffing. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too. Just adjust cooking time for thighs since they can be thicker.
Brie Cheese: Brie adds a creamy and rich flavor. If you can’t find it, try cream cheese or goat cheese as a substitute. They won’t be exactly the same, but they’ll still offer a lovely creaminess.
Dried Cranberries: These add a sweet-tart flavor to the dish. If you’re looking for a different option, try dried cherries or even apricots. You can also use fresh cranberries if you reduce them in sugar first!
Spinach: Fresh spinach brings in some nice color and nutrition. Frozen spinach can substitute, but make sure to squeeze out excess water before mixing it with other ingredients.
How Can You Ensure the Chicken is Tender and Juicy?
One common concern is keeping chicken moist during cooking, especially when stuffed. Here are some tips to help:
- Don’t overcook the chicken; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- After searing, transfer your skillet directly to the oven for even cooking. This keeps the chicken juicy.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking before cutting. This helps the juices redistribute.
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup unsweetened apple juice or water (for cooking cranberries)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing the chicken
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes for cooking, including searing and baking time. So, in total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes to enjoy a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Cranberries:
In a small saucepan, combine the dried cranberries, apple juice or water, and half of the minced garlic. Simmer this mixture over medium heat until the cranberries are soft and plump, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, set them aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
Now it’s time to prep your chicken! Using a sharp knife, gently slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. This is where you’ll be stuffing all that yummy filling!
4. Make the Filling:
In a bowl, combine the chopped spinach, half of the softened cranberries (save the rest for topping), and the Brie slices. Sprinkle in some salt, pepper, and thyme to add flavor. Mix it all together until just combined.
5. Stuff the Chicken:
Take that delicious mixture and stuff each chicken breast pocket generously. Once they’re filled, secure the openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine, so the goodness stays inside while cooking.
6. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. While it’s heating, season the stuffed chicken breasts with salt and pepper on all sides. Sear the chicken in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake the chicken for an additional 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to make sure it’s fully cooked and the cheese is wonderfully melted.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully remove the toothpicks or twine. Plate the chicken and spoon the remaining softened cranberries over the top for a beautiful presentation. You can even garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for an extra touch.
9. Side Suggestions:
This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. Enjoy every tasty bite of your flavorful, melty Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before starting. You can thaw chicken breasts overnight in the fridge or use the quick method by placing them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about an hour.
What If I Don’t Have Apple Juice?
No worries! You can substitute the apple juice with chicken broth or even water. Both will work fine to help plump the cranberries and keep the flavor balanced.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and stuff it a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to cook, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
