Description
This Elegant and Impressive Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken recipe combines tender chicken breasts stuffed with creamy brie, sweet dried cranberries, and fresh spinach for a sophisticated yet easy-to-make main dish perfect for special occasions or a delightful family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Stuffing
- 4 oz brie cheese, sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
Optional Enhancements
- Chopped fresh herbs (sage, thyme, rosemary)
- Drizzle of honey
- Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- Thin apple slices
For Searing (Optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Additional olive oil as needed
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut a deep pocket into the thickest side of each chicken breast carefully so as not to slice all the way through the opposite side, creating a cavity for the stuffing.
- Season: Season both inside and outside of each chicken breast generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to infuse flavor throughout.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced brie cheese, dried cranberries, chopped fresh spinach, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute ingredients.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the cranberry–brie mixture evenly into each chicken pocket, packing it generously to ensure a flavorful bite.
- Secure: Use toothpicks to firmly seal the opening of each stuffed chicken breast to keep the filling intact during cooking.
- Sear (Optional): Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes on each side until they develop a light golden-brown crust, adding extra flavor and texture.
- Bake: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked but still juicy.
- Rest: Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps retain juices and enhances tenderness.
Notes
- To enhance flavor, try adding chopped fresh herbs such as sage, thyme, or rosemary to the stuffing mixture.
- A drizzle of honey over the baked chicken adds a subtle sweetness that complements the tart cranberries and creamy brie.
- For added crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans inside the stuffing or over the plated chicken.
- Thin apple slices can be inserted along with the stuffing for a fresh, crisp contrast in texture and flavor.
- Seared chicken before baking is optional but recommended for added color and a slightly crispy exterior.
- Make sure not to overstuff the chicken breasts to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
