Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken with the creamy richness of Brie cheese and the bright pop of fresh cranberries. This recipe captures the essence of holiday dining, making it a perfect centerpiece for unforgettable gatherings with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or looking for a special way to celebrate, this dish is sure to impress.
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Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
This Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of melted Brie cheese and tart cranberries creates a filling that bursts with flavor in every bite. The chicken offers a juicy, tender texture, while the crispy breadcrumb topping adds an enjoyable crunch.
This dish balances sweet and savory flavors, making it versatile enough to please even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, it’s relatively easy to prepare, so you can impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket for stuffing.
- Place a generous portion of the cranberry mixture into each pocket. Then, add slices of Brie cheese on top of the cranberry filling.
- Secure the opening of the chicken with toothpicks if needed. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear each stuffed chicken breast for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter until combined. Coat each seared chicken breast with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the toothpicks, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!How to Make Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Your main protein source; juicy and perfect for stuffing.)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Use this for sautéing, ensuring a beautifully golden exterior while keeping the chicken moist.)
- 8 ounces Brie Cheese (The star of the show; melts into a creamy, rich filling that enhances each bite.)
- 2 cups Fresh Cranberries (Their tartness brings a burst of freshness that complements the savory chicken.)
- 1 tablespoon Honey (Sweetens the tart cranberries; use it to create a lovely glaze for the chicken.)
- 1/4 cup Orange Juice (Adds a zesty brightness; balances the richness of the dish perfectly.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Infuses warmth and depth into the cranberry sauce, making it irresistible.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Ginger (Provides a subtle spice that pairs beautifully with the sweet and tart flavors.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Essential for enhancing all the flavors throughout the dish.)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (Add a touch of heat that works excellently with the savory components.)
- 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (These offer a delightful crunch; ensures your chicken has a satisfying texture.)
- 2 tablespoons Butter (Coat breadcrumbs in butter for added richness and crispiness.)
- 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley (Brightens up the whole presentation and adds a pop of freshness to your dish.)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Cranberry Mixture: In a saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare Chicken Breasts: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket for stuffing. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff the Chicken: Place a generous portion of the cranberry mixture into each pocket. Then, add slices of Brie cheese on top of the cranberry filling.
- Seal and Coat: Secure the opening of the chicken with toothpicks if needed. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear each stuffed chicken breast for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Prepare the Breadcrumbs: In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter until combined. Coat each seared chicken breast with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the toothpicks, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm.
How to Serve Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Serve your Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete holiday meal. You can also pair it with mashed potatoes or wild rice for a heartier side. A splash of extra orange juice or a honey glaze can add even more flavor to the dish.
How to Store Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Leftover stuffed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain the texture and crispiness of the breadcrumbs.
Tips to Make Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Perfect
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh cranberries when possible, as they provide the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overstuff: Be cautious not to overstuff the chicken, as it can cause the filling to spill out during cooking.
- Let it Rest: Allow the stuffed chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute for a tender bite.
- Season Well: Don’t shy away from seasoning the chicken well, as it enhances the overall flavor.
Flavor Variations
Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the cranberry mixture for added crunch. You could also experiment with different types of cheese, like goat cheese or cream cheese, for a different flavor profile. Additionally, adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can introduce an aromatic touch that beautifully complements the dish.
Pro Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Cheese: Ensure your Brie is ripe and creamy for the best melting effect.
- Check Chicken Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked properly.
- Customizable Stuffing: Feel free to adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey based on your taste preferences.
FAQs About Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to fully thaw them before starting the recipe. Cooking time will also be longer, so ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.
What can I serve with this dish?
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a light salad, or hearty sides like mashed potatoes or wild rice.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it uncooked. When you’re ready, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Final Thoughts
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a beautiful main dish that is hearty, flavorful, and impressive when served. Perfect for holiday dinners and family gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a cherished tradition in your home. The combination of tender chicken, creamy Brie, and tart cranberries creates a symphony of flavors that everyone will love. Try it this holiday season and make your dinner unforgettable!