If you’re searching for a dish that effortlessly combines elegance and comfort, the Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful recipe brings together tender chicken breasts filled with creamy brie, vibrant spinach, and sweet-tart cranberries, creating a flavor explosion that’s perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night in. The combination of textures and tastes will have you wondering why you haven’t made this before, as each bite offers a beautiful harmony of savory, sweet, and fresh notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients can work wonders in the kitchen, and this recipe is proof. Each element here plays an important role, whether it’s the juicy chicken offering a hearty base, or the brie lending a luscious creaminess. The spinach adds freshness and color while cranberries bring a delightful pop of sweetness. Together, these components make a stunning dish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that holds all the delicious filling.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For that perfect sear and a fragrant base.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory depth without overwhelming the dish.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: Turns the filling bright green and offers a fresh, mild earthiness.
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries: Brings a sweet-tart contrast that complements the brie beautifully.
- 4 ounces brie cheese, sliced (rind removed if desired): The creamy, rich filling that melts into every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a fragrant herbal note that ties the dish together.
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for drizzle): A touch of natural sweetness to finish the plate elegantly.
How to Make Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish so your chicken doesn’t stick, ensuring even cooking and easy cleanup.
Step 2: Create the Chicken Pockets and Season
Carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, making sure not to slice all the way through. Season both inside and out with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder—this ensures flavor right at the center and on the surface.
Step 3: Combine Spinach and Cranberries
In a small bowl, mix the chopped fresh spinach with the dried cranberries. This simple mix will bring delightful texture and color to the filling.
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken Breasts
Fill each chicken pocket generously with the spinach and cranberry mixture, then layer in slices of creamy brie cheese. If needed, secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling perfectly tucked inside while it cooks.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat, then sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes per side. This step gives you a golden crust that locks in all those wonderful flavors and juices.
Step 6: Season and Transfer to the Oven
Sprinkle dried thyme over the chicken for fragrant herbal accents. Then, transfer the skillet directly to the oven. If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, carefully move the chicken to your prepared baking dish instead.
Step 7: Bake Until Juicy and Cooked Through
Bake the chicken for 18 to 22 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached. This ensures the chicken is juicy and perfectly cooked.
Step 8: Drizzle with Honey for Extra Elegance
Once out of the oven, you can optionally drizzle a bit of honey over the chicken breasts. This subtle sweetness beautifully balances the tart cranberries and creamy brie, making the dish truly unforgettable.
How to Serve Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie Recipe
Garnishes
For garnish, consider fresh thyme sprigs or a light sprinkle of chopped parsley. These fresh herbs amplify the earthy herbs inside and add a pop of vibrant green that makes your plate look as amazing as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like garlic mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a bright quinoa salad. Each side adds balance, letting the rich chicken remain the star while rounding out the meal with texture and flavor variety.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, slice each stuffed chicken breast into medallions to reveal the colorful filling inside. Arrange the slices fanned out on a serving plate and drizzle with honey or a light pan sauce for an eye-catching finish that wows guests at any dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie Recipe tightly wrapped in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps preserve moisture and flavor so you can enjoy delicious leftovers without sacrificing quality.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before cooking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or use a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw thoroughly before cooking to ensure even heat throughout.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This slow reheating method helps maintain the juicy inside and keeps the brie creamy, avoiding rubbery chicken.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries are quite tart and have a different texture, so if you want to use them, it’s best to cook them beforehand with a bit of sugar to soften and sweeten them. Dried cranberries work best straight into the stuffing, providing a pleasant chew and sweetness without added prep.
What can I substitute for brie cheese?
If brie is not available, you can try other soft cheeses like Camembert or even cream cheese. Keep in mind that brie’s rind adds subtle earthy notes, so removing the rind or choosing a different cheese will slightly change the flavor profile.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time, store them uncooked in the fridge, and then sear and bake when ready. This makes for a lovely, fresh meal with minimal day-of effort.
Can I grill the stuffed chicken breasts instead of baking?
Grilling is possible, but requires care. You’ll want to butterfly the chicken thicker or secure the stuffing firmly, then grill over indirect heat to cook through without burning. Baking offers more consistent results and less risk of losing the filling.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Replacing brie is the main step—consider a dairy-free creamy cheese alternative. Also, check that any substitutes used are truly dairy-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally dairy-free, making this recipe relatively easy to adapt.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about the Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie Recipe that makes it a true crowd-pleaser and a personal favorite to share. Its blend of vibrant ingredients, creamy cheese, and savory chicken goes beyond just a meal — it’s a celebration of flavors on your plate. I promise, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to for impressing family and friends without stressing over complicated cooking. Give it a whirl and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This elegant Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie recipe combines tender chicken breasts filled with a flavorful mixture of fresh spinach, sweet dried cranberries, and creamy brie cheese. Seared to a golden perfection and baked to juicy tenderness, this dish offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet, perfect for a sophisticated weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Stuffing
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 4 ounces brie cheese, sliced (rind removed if desired)
Optional
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for drizzle)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Chicken Pockets: Carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Season both inside and outside of the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to enhance flavor.
- Mix the Stuffing: In a small bowl, combine the chopped fresh spinach and dried cranberries, preparing the flavorful filling for the chicken.
- Stuff the Chicken: Fill each chicken breast pocket with the spinach and cranberry mixture along with slices of brie cheese. Use toothpicks if needed to secure the stuffing inside.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear each stuffed chicken breast for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a lightly golden crust.
- Add Seasoning and Transfer to Oven: Sprinkle dried thyme evenly over the chicken. Then transfer the skillet directly to the preheated oven, or alternatively move the chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring safe consumption.
- Optional Honey Drizzle: Remove the chicken from the oven and optionally drizzle with honey just before serving, adding a subtle sweetness that complements the savory flavors.
Notes
- To ensure even cooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken.
- If removing brie rind, be gentle so the cheese slices hold their shape.
- To make the pockets in chicken easier, use a sharp knife and cut carefully to avoid slicing through the breast entirely.
- To keep the stuffing inside, toothpicks can be used; remember to remove them before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
