Delightful Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Recipe You’ll Adore

Satisfying Chicken Delight

Growing up as a Florida girl infused with vibrant Mexican flavors, I have the delightful memory of pressing homemade tortillas beside my mama and soaking in the spice wisdom shared by my abuela. These warm kitchen moments taught me the essential role of food as an expression of love and joie de vivre. While I proudly call Orlando home, a piece of my heart resides in the bustling mercados of Oaxaca, where every bite tells a story. This passion fuels my kitchen experiments, resulting in delicious dishes like this cranberry brie stuffed chicken, an easy blend of cozy and gourmet for any gathering.

Eating this cranberry brie stuffed chicken brings joy and a hint of sophistication to the dinner table, merging the tart sweetness of cranberry sauce with the creamy richness of brie. With tender chicken enveloping these fabulous flavors, it’s a dish that satisfies the belly and warms the soul.

Quick Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: American
• Best Season: Fall & Winter

What Makes This Dish Shine

• Flavor Harmony: The tangy cranberry sauce balanced with creamy brie creates a mouthwatering fusion that captivates your taste buds, perfect for any occasion.
• Simple Technique: With just a few easy steps and ingredients, this stuffed chicken is achievable even for novice cooks, making it an accessible culinary adventure.
• Impressive Presentation: Plated beautifully, this dish transforms any dinner into a special occasion, sure to wow friends and family alike.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether served with sides of roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes, this stuffed chicken fits seamlessly into any meal setup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought, whole berry preferred)
• 4 ounces brie cheese (rind removed)
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Toothpicks

Ingredient Tips

• Cranberry Sauce: Homemade provides fresher flavor, but quality store-bought works just as well for a quick meal.
• Brie Cheese: Choose soft, creamy brie for easy melting and a luxurious texture.
• Chicken Breasts: Look for thick, even-sized chicken to ensure consistent cooking.
• Baby Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and a nutritional boost, but you can substitute it with kale if preferred.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Use a sharp knife to carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast, being cautious not to cut through the other side.
3. Stuff each pocket with a spoonful of cranberry sauce, a slice of brie cheese, and a handful of baby spinach. Secure the openings with toothpicks.
4. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
5. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks and serving.

Pro Pointers for Best Results

• Thermometer Use: Utilize a meat thermometer to gauge the chicken’s internal temperature accurately when baking.
• Searing Technique: Searing creates a beautiful crust and enhances flavor, so don’t skip this step!
• Cranberry Sauce Flavor: Experiment with different cranberry sauces, such as those with orange zest or spices like ginger, for an extra flavor dimension.
• Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest prevents juices from escaping, resulting in moist and tender meat.

Delightful Recipe Variations

• Vegan Version: Swap the chicken for firm tofu or seitan, and replace brie with vegan cheese to maintain the creaminess.
• Mild Flavor: Use cream cheese instead of brie and sweetened cranberry sauce for a gentler taste.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or a spicy pepper jack cheese when stuffing for an exciting heat.
• Regional Twist: Add a chipotle sauce layer for a smoky flavor inspired by Mexican cuisine.

Perfect Pairings

Consider serving this scrumptious chicken with roasted Brussels sprouts or a fresh arugula salad for a well-rounded meal. A glass of sparkling apple cider complements the dish beautifully, while a slice of rich chocolate cake can serve as the perfect ending.

Make-Ahead & Freezer Tips

Prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a day in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook. For long-term storage, freeze the uncooked stuffed chicken in an airtight container for up to a month, allowing it to thaw in the fridge before cooking.

Presentation Inspirations

Serve the chicken atop a bed of mixed greens drizzled with balsamic glaze for added flair. Drape a few extra spoons of cranberry sauce over the chicken for a colorful, inviting presentation perfect for entertaining.

Little Secrets to Enhance Flavor

1. Quality Ingredients: Always opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially for the main components like chicken and cheese.
2. Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be tucked inside each pocket for an aromatic enhancement.
3. Pan Sauce Bonus: After baking, deglaze the skillet with a bit of broth and scrape up the flavorful bits for a delicious sauce to drizzle over.
4. Cheese Variations: To experiment, try different types of creamy cheese, like goat cheese or camembert, each adding its unique depth.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave on medium power or on the stovetop with a touch of broth to maintain moisture and texture.

Common Questions Answered

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Frozen breasts need to be thawed before making this dish to properly stuff and cook them.
2. Can this recipe be doubled? Absolutely! Just ensure you have a large enough skillet or baking dish to accommodate all the chicken.
3. What sides go well with stuffed chicken? Pair it with seasonal veggies, a hearty grain like quinoa, or a refreshing salad.
4. Can I prepare this dish a day ahead? Yes, stuff the chicken and store it in the fridge until you are ready to cook.
5. What if I forget to remove the toothpicks? It’s a good idea to remind diners to check for toothpicks before eating.
6. Are there any non-cheese alternatives? You could omit the cheese and add more vegetables or ingredients like hummus for moisture and flavor.

Nutrition Info

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
• Calories: 380
• Protein: 34g
• Carbs: 12g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 5g

Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary.

A Heartfelt Reflection

Every dish carries with it a slice of my heritage, showcasing the richness of homemade meals that weave memories of nurturing kitchens. The vibrant colors and bold flavors of this cranberry brie stuffed chicken reflect families gathering around the table, sharing laughter, and forging connections over delectable bites. May this recipe inspire your own culinary stories as you create dishes brimming with love and warmth.

Before You Go

Cooking this cranberry brie stuffed chicken not only adds a flavorful twist to your dinner table but also fills your home with inviting aromas and cozy moments. Dive into this delicious adventure and get ready to savor every bite. Don’t forget to share your experience and pin this recipe for your cooking repertoire; your friends will thank you!

Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A delightful dish combining the tartness of cranberry sauce and the creaminess of brie, wrapped in tender chicken breasts.

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought, whole berry preferred)
• 4 ounces brie cheese (rind removed)
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Toothpicks

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Use a sharp knife to carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast, being cautious not to cut through the other side.
3. Stuff each pocket with a spoonful of cranberry sauce, a slice of brie cheese, and a handful of baby spinach. Secure the openings with toothpicks.
4. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
5. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks and serving.

Notes

For best results, use fresh ingredients and allow chicken to rest after cooking to retain moisture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 100mg