IRRESISTIBLE CRANBERRY BRIE STUFFED CHICKEN

Craving something that’s both elegant and comforting? Imagine biting into a juicy chicken breast, the savory meat giving way to a creamy, melted brie and sweet-tart cranberry filling – it’s a flavor explosion you won’t forget! This Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken recipe is easier than you think, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way, promising a restaurant-worthy dish you can proudly create at home.

Gather Your Ingredients

Chicken & Preparation

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

The Star Filling

• 4 ounces brie cheese, rind removed and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied, your preference!)
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for added crunch)

Finishing Touches

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Let’s Get Stuffing: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a resealable bag. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps it cook evenly and makes it easier to stuff.
3. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of each chicken breast with the olive oil mixture.

Step 2: Stuff and Roll (The Fun Part!)

1. Lay each chicken breast flat on a clean surface.
2. Divide the brie cubes and cranberry sauce evenly among the chicken breasts. Sprinkle with chopped nuts, if using.
3. Carefully roll up each chicken breast, starting from one end and tucking in the sides as you go, like a little burrito. Secure with toothpicks if needed – don’t worry, we’ll remove them later!

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

1. Place the stuffed chicken breasts seam-side down in a baking dish.
2. Brush the tops of the chicken with melted butter. This will help them brown beautifully and stay moist.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure!

Step 4: The Grand Finale

1. Remove the toothpicks (if you used them).
2. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Troubleshooting & Tips for Success

The Brie Escape!

Sometimes, the brie might melt and ooze out during baking. Don’t panic! This is perfectly normal. Just spoon the melted brie back over the chicken before serving. Using a good quality brie and not overstuffing the chicken will help minimize this.

Dry Chicken? No Way!

Overcooked chicken is the enemy. Using a meat thermometer is key to ensuring your chicken is cooked through but not dry. Also, pounding the chicken to an even thickness helps it cook evenly.

Spice it Up!

Feel free to customize the seasoning. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of smoked paprika can add a little kick. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Variations to Make it Your Own

Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken with Spinach

Add a layer of sautéed spinach to the stuffing for a boost of nutrients and flavor. Simply sauté the spinach with a little garlic and olive oil before adding it to the chicken.

Different Cheese Combinations

While brie is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese. Just make sure the cheese melts well.

Savory Herb Crust

Before baking, coat the chicken in a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs (like thyme and rosemary), and parmesan cheese for a crispy crust.

What to Serve with Your Masterpiece

This Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a showstopper, so you’ll want sides that complement it without overpowering it. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts are a great choice. A simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing also works well. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with mashed potatoes or rice pilaf.

If you’re looking for other delicious chicken recipes, why not try Boursin Chicken Pasta for a creamy delight, or Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken for another cranberry infused dish? And if you love stuffed chicken, don’t miss out on Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Garlic Butter Mushrooms Ultimate or the Roasted Red Pepper Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken for more flavor combinations. If casseroles are your thing, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a fantastic choice and for simple elegance, there’s nothing like Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast.

Making Ahead & Storage

Make Ahead Magic

You can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to cover them tightly to prevent them from drying out. Add a few minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

Leftover Love

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. It’s also delicious cold in a sandwich or salad!

Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Chicken Recipe

This Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is truly a winner – easy to make, impressive to serve, and bursting with flavor. Don’t be intimidated by the “stuffed” part; with these tips and tricks, you’ll be whipping up this gourmet-style dish in no time. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills! Enjoy!