Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken will sweep you off your feet with its harmony of sweet and savory flavors. Picture this: tender chicken breasts enveloping gooey brie cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs that waft through your kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. It was a hectic weeknight, and I needed something impressive yet easy to prepare. As the aroma filled the air, my kids rushed in from their rooms, lured by the scent of dinner like moths to a flame. This recipe has since become our go-to for cozy gatherings and special occasions alike.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is not only simple to whip up but also impressively flavorful
- The melty brie paired with tart cranberries creates a delightful taste sensation
- Its beautiful presentation makes it ideal for entertaining guests or enjoying a family dinner
- Plus, you can serve it with various sides to suit any palate
Ingredients for Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose 3-4 large chicken breasts for easy stuffing and even cooking.
Brie Cheese: Opt for high-quality brie that melts beautifully; avoid overly aged varieties as they may not melt well.
Cranberry Sauce: Use homemade or store-bought; either brings that sweet-tart flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
Fresh Thyme: A few sprigs enhance the dish’s aroma and introduce an earthy note that balances the sweetness.
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps achieve golden-brown skin while keeping the chicken moist during baking.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skip these as they elevate all other flavors in the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Start by preparing your chicken breasts. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each breast horizontally to create pockets without cutting all the way through. This step is crucial because it’s where the magic happens.
Next, stuff each pocket generously with brie cheese and cranberry sauce. Feel free to play around with how much you add; just remember, more is often better when it comes to cheese!
Sprinkle fresh thyme on top of the brie and cranberry mix for an aromatic boost. The herb’s fragrance melds beautifully with the melting cheese as it cooks.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While waiting, rub each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and juices run clear.
As your Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken bakes away, enjoy those heavenly aromas filling your home! When done, let it rest for five minutes before slicing into those gooey pockets of deliciousness.
Serve your stuffed chicken alongside roasted veggies or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
You Must Know
- This Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience
- With its gooey cheese and tart cranberries, it looks as impressive as it tastes
- Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests, this recipe is your new go-to for culinary success
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the chicken. Sear the chicken breasts in a hot skillet to lock in moisture, then transfer them to the oven to finish cooking perfectly. Meanwhile, whip up a quick cranberry sauce for extra flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch up the cheese; goat cheese or cheddar can add a different flair. Toss in some spinach or nuts for added texture and nutrition. And don’t shy away from herbs; rosemary and thyme can elevate the flavors beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven until warmed through, ensuring the cheese stays melty and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe eating without drying out
- Let the chicken rest after cooking so juices redistribute for maximum flavor
- Always taste your cranberry sauce; adjust sweetness based on preference for balance
The first time I made Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken, my friends thought I had taken a culinary class! Watching them devour it was priceless; it became a staple at our dinner parties after that memorable night.
FAQs:
What is Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken?
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken breasts with creamy brie cheese and sweet cranberry sauce. This recipe is perfect for a gourmet dinner at home or for impressing guests during special occasions. The combination of flavors creates a delightful balance of savory and sweet, making it a favorite among many.
How do I prepare the chicken for stuffing?
To prepare the chicken breasts for stuffing, first, you need to butterfly them. This involves slicing them horizontally almost all the way through and then opening them like a book. Season both sides with salt and pepper before adding the brie cheese and cranberry mixture. This method ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to meld beautifully while baking.
Can I make Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken in advance. You can stuff the chicken breasts and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook, simply preheat your oven and bake as directed. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping or entertaining, saving you time on busy days.
What side dishes pair well with Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken?
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken pairs well with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette. These sides balance the dish’s richness and enhance its taste profile, creating a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion for Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken:
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is an exquisite dish that brings together savory chicken, creamy brie cheese, and sweet cranberry sauce. Its easy preparation makes it an ideal choice for both casual meals and special occasions. By following this recipe, you can create a flavorful dinner that will impress your family and friends alike. Enjoy this delightful fusion of flavors and savor every bite!
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a delectable dish that harmonizes tender chicken breasts with creamy brie cheese and sweet-tart cranberry sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe features a golden-brown exterior with a gooey interior, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of flavors and the inviting aroma will elevate any meal, leaving your family and guests asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 8 oz brie cheese, rinded and cut into slices
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally to create pockets.
- Stuff each pocket with brie cheese slices and cranberry sauce; top with fresh thyme.
- Rub the outside of the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the stuffed chicken in a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
