This Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a tasty treat! Tender chicken breasts are filled with creamy brie cheese and sweet tart cranberries, making each bite special.
It’s like a cozy hug on a plate! I love serving this dish with a side of veggies for color and crunch. Plus, it’s easy enough to make for any day or a fancy dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for stuffing. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option. They’re a bit richer in flavor.
Brie Cheese: Brie adds creaminess and richness. You can substitute it with Camembert or even a softer cream cheese if needed. Just note that the flavor will change slightly.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are ideal for a tart bite, but if you can’t find them, dried cranberries work too. Just chop them a bit and reduce any added sugar in your dish.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary is my favorite, but feel free to swap in thyme or even parsley. Dried herbs can substitute as well; just use less since they’re more concentrated.
How to Make Sure Your Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
The secret to cooking chicken so it’s juicy and tender is not overcooking it. Here are some steps to ensure success:
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Avoid high temps—medium-high heat is ideal for searing then bake it slowly.
- Let it rest after cooking for 5 minutes. This keeps the juices inside, making it moist.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll have flavorful and perfectly cooked stuffed chicken every time!
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 oz Brie cheese, sliced or cubed
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (thawed and drained if frozen)
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
- 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine (for securing the chicken)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe involves about 15 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of cooking time. Altogether, you should be ready to enjoy your delicious Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken in about 40-45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take a sharp knife and carefully slice a pocket in each chicken breast. Make sure to cut through the thickest part, but don’t slice all the way through—just enough for stuffing!
3. Mix the Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the Brie cheese, cranberries, chopped rosemary, sage (if using), and minced garlic. Mix well until everything is well combined.
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Take the filling and stuff it into each chicken breast pocket. Don’t be shy; pack it in there! Once stuffed, secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the tasty filling inside while cooking.
5. Season the Chicken:
Generously season the outside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This will add extra flavor to the dish!
6. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil and butter in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a lovely golden-brown crust.
7. Bake in the Oven:
Now, carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
8. Let it Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
9. Serve:
Slice the chicken and serve it drizzled with pan juices. Garnish with extra fresh rosemary if you like. Enjoy every bite of this fabulous dish!
Enjoy the harmonious blend of creamy Brie and the tart burst of cranberries packed inside juicy, well-seasoned chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw them before cooking. The best way to thaw is overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, you can place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Brie Cheese?
If you can’t find Brie, you can use Camembert for a similar creamy texture and flavor. Cream cheese is another option, though it will be less decadent. Just keep in mind the taste may vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve with Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. If you’re looking for a flavorful starch, consider serving it over rice or quinoa to soak up any extra juices!
