Introduction to Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Welcome to my kitchen, where culinary adventures await! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s become a favorite in my home: Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that combines tender chicken with creamy brie and sweet cranberry sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick solution for a busy weeknight or a dish to impress your loved ones at a gathering, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming of it long after the last bite!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
This Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a game-changer in the kitchen! It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when time is short. The combination of savory chicken, rich brie, and tangy cranberry sauce creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a dish that looks fancy enough to impress guests, yet simple enough for a cozy family dinner. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! They’re tender and perfect for stuffing.
- Salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the flavors of the chicken.
- Brie cheese: Creamy and rich, it melts beautifully inside the chicken, adding a luxurious touch.
- Whole-berry cranberry sauce: Sweet and tangy, it brings a burst of flavor that complements the brie.
- Panko breadcrumbs: These add a delightful crunch on top, making each bite satisfying.
- Fresh parsley: A pop of color and freshness, it brightens up the dish.
- Olive oil or melted butter: Helps the breadcrumbs crisp up nicely and adds flavor.
Feel free to get creative! You can swap the brie for another cheese like goat cheese or mozzarella if you prefer. And if you’re looking for a twist, try adding some chopped nuts or dried fruits to the stuffing for extra texture and flavor. For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
How to Make Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making this delicious Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when your stuffed chicken goes in, helping it cook evenly and perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Next, take your boneless skinless chicken breasts and place them on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each breast. Be sure not to slice all the way through; we want to keep the stuffing inside! Season both the inside and outside of the chicken with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
Now comes the fun part! Spoon about 2 tablespoons of whole-berry cranberry sauce into each pocket. Then, add 2-3 slices of creamy brie cheese. If the opening seems a bit too loose, don’t worry! You can secure it with toothpicks to keep everything snug and cozy.
Step 4: Add the Topping
In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, and your choice of olive oil or melted butter. This mixture will create a delightful crunch on top of your chicken. Press this breadcrumb mixture onto the top of each stuffed chicken breast, ensuring it sticks well.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Finally, place your beautifully stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove any toothpicks before serving. Enjoy your Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken hot, perhaps with a drizzle of extra cranberry sauce on the side!
Tips for Success
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking; this keeps it juicy.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors—goat cheese works wonderfully!
- For extra crunch, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- Pair with a light salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Equipment Needed
- Sharp knife: Essential for cutting pockets in the chicken. A good pair of kitchen scissors can work too!
- Baking dish: A glass or ceramic dish is perfect for even cooking. A metal pan will do in a pinch.
- Meat thermometer: To check the chicken’s doneness. If you don’t have one, just cut into the thickest part to ensure it’s no longer pink.
Variations of Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
- Herbed Chicken: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the stuffing for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some jalapeños or red pepper flakes with the cranberry sauce for a spicy version.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the stuffing for added crunch and flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with large portobello mushrooms for a delicious meat-free alternative.
- Fruit Fusion: Add diced apples or pears to the stuffing for a sweet and savory combination.
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
- Side Salad: A light arugula or spinach salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots for a colorful plate.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the flavors beautifully.
- Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for an elegant touch.
FAQs about Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Can I make Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and stuff it a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping it in the oven.
What can I serve with Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or even mashed potatoes. The sweet and savory flavors complement each other beautifully, making for a well-rounded meal.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely before preparing. Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven cooking, so thawing is key for perfect results.
Is Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs, this dish can easily be made gluten-free. Just check the label to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
How do I store leftovers of Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Enjoy the deliciousness again!
Final Thoughts
Cooking is more than just a task; it’s a way to express love and creativity. This Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken embodies that spirit perfectly. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to create lasting memories around the table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of cooking, and let this recipe bring a little magic to your kitchen!
Print
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken: A Flavorful Delight Awaits!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with creamy brie cheese and sweet cranberry sauce, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
- 4–6 oz brie cheese, sliced (rind is fine)
- ½ cup whole-berry cranberry sauce
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into each chicken breast (do not slice all the way through). Season inside and outside of chicken with salt and pepper.
- Spoon about 2 tbsp cranberry sauce into each pocket. Add 2–3 slices of brie to each breast. Secure the opening with toothpicks if needed.
- In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, parsley, and olive oil/butter. Press breadcrumb mixture onto the top of each stuffed chicken breast.
- Place in a baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
- Remove toothpicks before serving. Serve hot with extra cranberry sauce if desired.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cranberry sauce and brie to your taste.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
