There's a certain joy that comes from transforming a simple chicken breast into a culinary masterpiece, and my Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken does exactly that. Picture the moment when you slice into this dish—the golden, seared exterior gives way to a delightful blend of melted brie, tart cranberry sauce, and wilted spinach that all come together to create an unforgettable flavor experience. I stumbled upon this recipe while trying to impress some friends on a cozy evening in, and it quickly became a cherished go-to for gatherings and quiet dinners alike.
With just a handful of ingredients, this dish boasts an elegant appearance without demanding hours in the kitchen. Whether you're looking to spice up your weeknight dinner or impress a loved one, this stuffed chicken is the perfect solution. Plus, it captures the essence of festive flavors in every bite, making it ideal for anytime you want to celebrate a little or simply enjoy a comforting meal at home. Let’s dive into the recipe and elevate your dinner routine!
Why You'll Love This Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
- This Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a gourmet experience that will impress anyone at your dinner table.
- The combination of creamy brie and tangy cranberry sauce creates a flavor explosion that is sure to delight your taste buds.
- With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up an elegant meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Its beautiful presentation makes it perfect for special occasions, while the versatile flavors suit casual weeknight dinners as well.
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Ingredients
Get ready to create a flavor-packed dish!
For the Chicken
• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts – the foundation of your delightful stuffed chicken!
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt – enhances the chicken's natural flavor beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme – adds a lovely herbaceous note that complements the filling.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – a subtle spice that brings the flavors together.
For the Filling
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided – helps sauté the vegetables and keeps the chicken moist.
• 2 tablespoons diced shallot – lends a sweet, mild onion flavor to the filling.
• 1 garlic clove, minced – infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
• 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped – adds vibrant color and a nutritious touch.
• ¼ cup cranberry sauce – provides the signature sweet-tart flavor in this Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken.
• 3 ounces brie cheese, sliced – melts beautifully, creating a creamy, luscious filling.
How to Make Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
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Preheat your oven to 375-400°F. This ensures a perfectly baked chicken with a crispy exterior once you’re ready to pop it in!
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Season the chicken breasts by rubbing kosher salt, dried thyme, and ground black pepper on both sides. This helps to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
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Slice each chicken breast lengthwise almost in half to create a pocket for your delicious filling. Be careful not to cut all the way through!
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Sauté in a medium pan over medium heat, adding 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the shallot and garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant, infusing your kitchen with an inviting aroma.
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Add the baby spinach to the pan and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until it begins to wilt. The spinach will transform into a vibrant green, adding flavor and nutrition.
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Remove the spinach mixture from heat and let it cool slightly. This way, it won’t prematurely melt your brie when you add it to the chicken.
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Spoon about 2 tablespoons of cranberry sauce into the pocket of each chicken breast, adding a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
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Distribute the sautéed spinach mixture evenly between the chicken breasts, then top each with 3 ounces of sliced brie cheese. This melty goodness will make each bite irresistible!
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Secure the filling by using toothpicks or kitchen twine, ensuring your delightful stuffing stays intact during cooking.
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Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear the stuffed chicken for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown, achieving that perfect crust.
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Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring it’s cooked through and safe to eat.
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Rest the chicken for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every slice juicy and flavorful.
Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for an extra touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken?
Creating a memorable meal is all about the perfect pairings that enhance each bite.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture and rich flavor provide a comforting base to balance the stuffed chicken’s tanginess.
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Garlic Roasted Asparagus: These tender, herb-infused spears bring a vibrant crunch that's a delightful contrast to the oozy brie.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness complements the cranberry sauce while adding a pop of color to your plate.
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Wild Rice Pilaf: With its nutty flavor and chewy texture, this dish adds depth, making each bite an adventure.
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Fresh Arugula Salad: The peppery greens offer a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness of the chicken.
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Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp, fruity wine enhances the flavors of the dish and adds a touch of sophistication to your dining experience.
Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy evening in, these pairings can elevate your feast perfectly!
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative and put your own twist on this delightful dish!
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh basil or parsley to the spinach filling for a fragrant herbal burst.
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Nuts for Crunch: Toss in crushed walnuts or pecans with the spinach mixture for an added crunchy texture that complements the softness of the brie. Nuts add a delightful surprise in every bite.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of traditional ones to create a tasty, crispy topping after baking. This allows everyone to enjoy the dish without worry.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the spinach mixture for a gentle heat that elevates the flavors beautifully. You’ll love how the heat dances with the creamy brie.
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Fruit-Forward: Swap the cranberry sauce for fig jam or a fruit chutney for a unique, sweet-savory profile. This change creates an entirely new flavor experience!
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Cheese Lovers: Substitute the brie with goat cheese or a sharp cheddar for a different cheesy profile that still melts wonderfully.
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Vegetable Power: Add roasted red bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for an extra depth of flavor and vibrant color.
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Curry Flavor: Mix in a teaspoon of curry powder with the sautéed spinach for an exotic twist that will surprise and delight. It's a delightful flavor adventure!
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the stuffed chicken, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight before warming in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken!
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the stuffed chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken breasts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling—sautéing the shallots, garlic, and spinach—up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can season and slice the chicken breasts, storing them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours. To maintain quality, make sure the chicken is tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you're ready to cook, simply stuff the chicken with the refrigerated filling, secure it, sear, and bake as directed. This will yield delicious, gourmet results with minimal effort, making your weeknight dinners a breeze!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken, be sure to slice the chicken breasts almost in half carefully to create a good pocket for your filling without cutting all the way through.
- Avoid overcooking the spinach when sautéing; it should just begin to wilt which preserves its nutrients and bright color.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check the chicken's internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Allow the stuffed chicken to rest for a full 5 minutes after baking, as this helps keep the meat tender and juicy.
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken breasts should I use?
I recommend using large, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. They provide enough space to create a pocket for your filling, ensuring a delicious balance of flavors.
How can I tell if my brie cheese is ripe?
Look for brie that has a soft and creamy texture with a slight bloom on the rind. Avoid cheese that has any dark spots or an off smell, which indicates it may be past its prime. Fresh brie will smell slightly earthy and sweet.
How should I store leftovers from the Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it's cooled to room temperature before sealing to avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to spoilage.
Can I freeze the stuffed chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the stuffed chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
What if I don’t have fresh spinach?
If fresh spinach isn't available, you can substitute it with frozen chopped spinach. Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the filling to prevent a soggy texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to use gluten-free cranberry sauce and check that your seasonings do not contain gluten for a deliciously safe meal.
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375-400°F.
- Season the chicken breasts by rubbing kosher salt, dried thyme, and ground black pepper on both sides.
- Slice each chicken breast lengthwise almost in half to create a pocket for your filling.
- Sauté shallot and garlic in 1 tablespoon of olive oil for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add baby spinach to the pan and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until it begins to wilt.
- Remove the spinach mixture from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of cranberry sauce into the pocket of each chicken breast.
- Distribute the sautéed spinach mixture evenly between the chicken breasts, then top each with 3 ounces of sliced brie cheese.
- Secure the filling using toothpicks.
- Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet and sear the stuffed chicken for about 3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest the chicken for 5 minutes before serving.
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