Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts filled with creamy brie cheese and bright, tangy cranberries. The combination of the melted…
Tip: save now, cook later.Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts filled with creamy brie cheese and bright, tangy cranberries. The combination of the melted cheese and the sweet-tart cranberries makes each bite a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a great way to make an ordinary chicken dinner feel a little special.
I love making this when I want to impress guests or just treat my family to something different without spending hours in the kitchen. One little tip I’ve learned is to secure each chicken breast with toothpicks after stuffing it—this keeps the filling inside while cooking and makes sure everything stays warm and melty. It always turns out just right!
I usually serve this with a simple green salad or some roasted veggies to keep the meal balanced and colorful. Sometimes I’ll even add a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top for a bit of extra zing. This dish has become a favorite for holiday dinners or any cozy night when I want something comforting but fancy enough to feel like a celebration.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy stuffing. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too, and they stay juicy longer.
Brie Cheese: Brie adds creamy richness. If unavailable, you can substitute with Camembert or a mild goat cheese for a different but tasty twist.
Dried Cranberries: These bring sweetness and tartness. Fresh cranberries can be used but may need a quick sauté with sugar to soften them.
Spinach: Fresh spinach balances the richness with a mild, fresh taste. You could also use arugula or kale for a bit of a peppery or stronger flavor.
Thyme and Garlic: These aromatics enhance the flavor. Fresh herbs work best but dried thyme is fine if fresh isn’t on hand.
How Do You Get the Chicken Stuffed Without the Filling Escaping?
Stuffing chicken can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here’s how to keep the filling inside:
- Cut a deep pocket inside the chicken breast but don’t slice all the way through.
- Fill gently; overstuffing can cause tearing or spills during cooking.
- Use toothpicks to secure the opening after stuffing—this holds everything in place as the chicken cooks.
- When searing, handle the chicken gently so the pocket doesn’t burst.
- Rest the chicken after cooking; it lets juices settle and helps the filling set inside.
Following these tips ensures you get that beautiful melty brie and cranberry center without losing any to the pan!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet – lets you sear the chicken on the stove and finish cooking in the oven without extra dishes.
- Sharp knife – essential for carefully cutting the pocket inside the chicken breasts without slicing through.
- Cutting board – provides a safe space to prep the chicken and other ingredients.
- Toothpicks – keep the stuffed chicken securely closed while cooking to hold in the filling.
- Tongs – help you turn the chicken gently when searing to avoid tearing the pocket.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Substitute brie with goat cheese for a tangier, creamier filling that pairs well with cranberries.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the stuffing for a nice crunchy texture contrast.
- Swap spinach with kale or arugula if you want a stronger, peppery green flavor.
- Include a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or sage inside the chicken for an earthy note that complements the cranberries.
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup brie cheese, rind removed and sliced
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
- Optional: 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar or honey (for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 25 minutes for cooking. Including a short resting time after baking, the whole process is about 40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven & Chicken:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, use a sharp knife to carefully cut a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast. Be sure not to slice all the way through.
2. Season & Stuff:
Season both the inside and outside of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the thyme leaves. Then, stuff each pocket with spinach leaves, slices of brie, and dried cranberries. Use toothpicks to keep the filling secure if needed.
3. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown.
4. Bake:
Sprinkle the remaining thyme over the chicken. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken is done when cooked through and the brie inside has melted.
5. Rest & Serve:
Take the skillet out of the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Remove toothpicks carefully. Garnish with fresh rosemary and, if you like, drizzle with balsamic vinegar or honey for a sweet tang. Serve warm with your favorite salad or veggies, and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight before preparing. This makes it easier to cut the pocket and ensures even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Brie Cheese?
If you don’t have brie, try using Camembert, mozzarella, or goat cheese. These cheeses melt well and will provide a creamy texture similar to brie.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain the melty cheese.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can stuff the chicken breasts and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Just add the searing and baking steps right before serving for the best taste and texture.