Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken is like a hug from your favorite comfort food, wrapped in a delicious chicken blanket! Imagine tender chicken breasts filled with creamy Brie cheese and tart cranberry sauce—your taste buds will dance like they just won the lottery. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is enough to make anyone forget about their dinner plans. And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to cozy up with this delightful dish after a long day?
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken
- How to Make Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What ingredients do I need for Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken?
- How do I prepare the filling for the stuffed chicken?
- How long should I cook Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken?
- Can I make Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken ahead of time?
- Conclusion for Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken :
- 📖 Recipe Card
This recipe reminds me of the time I tried to impress my in-laws with my cooking skills. Spoiler alert: I almost burned the roast! But this stuffed chicken was a game-changer; it turned that dinner into a heartwarming success story that still gets retold at family gatherings. It’s perfect for holidays, cozy dinners, or just because you deserve something special today. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll experience flavor fireworks like never before!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing stuffed chicken is easy to prepare and makes an impressive dinner without the fuss.
- Its sweet and savory flavor profile will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- The vibrant colors make it a stunning centerpiece on your dining table.
- Versatile enough to serve on holidays or casual weekdays; it fits any occasion perfectly.
Ingredients for Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 4 chicken breasts as your canvas for stuffing; they should be thick enough to hold a generous filling.
- Brie Cheese: Look for soft, creamy Brie that melts beautifully; make sure it’s not too aged for the best texture.
- Cranberry Sauce: Use homemade or store-bought; either way, its tartness complements the creamy cheese perfectly.
- Fresh Thyme: Fresh thyme brings an aromatic touch; its earthy notes elevate the overall flavor beautifully.
- Garlic Powder: Opt for garlic powder over fresh garlic in this recipe as it evenly distributes flavor throughout the chicken.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential; season generously to enhance all the flavors in your stuffed chicken.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil keeps the chicken moist while adding richness to each bite.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare your ingredients. This way, it’s hot and ready when you’re done stuffing!
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Take each boneless chicken breast and carefully cut a pocket into the side—like giving it a little jacket pocket for all that cheesy goodness! Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Stuffing Time
Now comes the fun part! Take some Brie cheese slices and about two tablespoons of cranberry sauce per breast. Stuff them into each pocket along with a sprinkle of fresh thyme for added flavor.
Step 4: Secure Your Masterpieces
Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure those little pockets closed; nobody wants a cheesy explosion in their oven! Brush each breast lightly with olive oil for that golden finish.
Step 5: Bake Away
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve with Flair
Once cooked, let them rest for a few minutes before removing toothpicks or twine. Slice them open and watch that ooey-gooey cheese spill out—serve warm with extra cranberry sauce on the side if you’re feeling fancy!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite, knowing you’ve created something truly special!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook some quinoa or rice while preparing a delightful sauce with cranberries and brie for a harmonious finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the brie for goat cheese or cream cheese if you’re feeling adventurous. Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor, or throw in some toasted nuts for crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep the chicken moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F for safe eating.
- Letting the chicken rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses and fruits to find your favorite combinations.
Cooking this dish reminds me of that one dinner party where my friends couldn’t stop raving about how fancy I made chicken sound—turns out, it was all in the stuffing!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken?
To make delicious Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken, you’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh or dried cranberries, creamy Brie cheese, chopped fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. For added flavor, consider using chicken broth to moisten the stuffing. This combination creates a sweet and savory dish that is perfect for any occasion. You can also add chopped walnuts for a bit of crunch if desired. With these simple ingredients, you can create a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy.
How do I prepare the filling for the stuffed chicken?
To prepare the filling for your Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken, begin by mixing the chopped cranberries with diced Brie cheese in a bowl. Add minced garlic and finely chopped herbs to enhance the flavor. Season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste. If you want a touch more acidity, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Ensure that the filling is well combined before stuffing it into the chicken breasts. This step is crucial for achieving a balanced flavor profile in your dish.
How long should I cook Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken?
Cooking time for Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken typically ranges from 25 to 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C). To ensure that the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Cooking times may vary slightly based on the thickness of your chicken breasts. For extra juiciness, consider covering the dish with foil during the first half of cooking. This helps retain moisture, resulting in tender chicken filled with gooey Brie cheese and tart cranberries.
Can I make Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken ahead of time! After assembling the stuffed chicken breasts, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to bake them, simply remove them from the fridge while preheating your oven so they come closer to room temperature before cooking. This method allows for flavors to meld together nicely while providing convenience for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Conclusion for Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken :
Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken is an exquisite dish that combines savory flavors with a touch of sweetness. The key ingredients—chicken breasts, cranberries, and creamy Brie—create a delightful balance that is both appetizing and satisfying. Preparing this dish in advance makes it convenient for busy days while ensuring your meal is packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe will impress everyone at your table. Try this delicious stuffed chicken today!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken is a cozy and impressive dish that combines tender chicken breasts with creamy Brie cheese and tart cranberry sauce. This delightful meal offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, making it an excellent choice for holidays, special dinners, or any day you crave something extraordinary. Your taste buds will celebrate this delicious creation, and your guests will be asking for more!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz creamy Brie cheese, sliced
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut a pocket into each chicken breast and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each pocket with slices of Brie cheese and 2 tablespoons of cranberry sauce, adding fresh thyme.
- Secure pockets with toothpicks or kitchen twine, then brush lightly with olive oil.
- Bake in a baking dish for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Allow resting for a few minutes before serving with extra cranberry sauce on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
