Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Recipe
If you’re looking for the ultimate show-stopper that brings together savory, sweet, creamy, and a hint of festive flair, this Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is your answer. Succulent chicken breasts are lovingly filled with creamy brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and fresh rosemary—a trio that transforms any dinner into something extraordinary. Whether you serve it for holidays or just want to treat yourself on a weeknight, every bite bursts with luscious flavor and that “special occasion” feeling. It’s a dish that combines elegance with incredible ease, and it never fails to impress!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken comes from its simple, high-impact ingredients. Each one is chosen to deliver maximum flavor and a gorgeous presentation, so don’t skip or skim—these elements all work their magic together!
- Chicken Breasts: Large, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, as they create hearty pockets ready to be stuffed with all kinds of goodness.
- Brie Cheese: Creamy brie melts into a luscious, gooey center, adding decadence and a subtle, buttery bite to every forkful.
- Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce: The little bursts of tart cranberries bring sweet-tangy contrast that perfectly cuts through the richness of the cheese and chicken.
- Fresh Rosemary: Chopped rosemary introduces a fragrant, earthy note that elevates the dish from simple to spectacular.
- Olive Oil: This helps develop a beautiful golden crust during searing and keeps the chicken moist.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Don’t forget these essential seasonings—just the right amount draws out every layer of flavor.
- Toothpicks: Use these handy tools to keep all your delicious stuffing tucked securely inside as the chicken cooks.
How to Make Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lining up all your ingredients and supplies before you begin makes assembly fast and smooth. An oven-safe skillet is your best friend here, as it makes for fewer dishes and wonderfully crispy chicken!
Step 2: Butterfly the Chicken
With a sharp knife, carefully create a horizontal pocket in the thickest part of each chicken breast. Don’t cut all the way through—aim for a secure envelope to hold in all the creamy, melty filling. Take your time—this step sets you up for a beautifully stuffed (not exploded) chicken.
Step 3: Stuff with Brie, Cranberry, and Rosemary
Tuck slices of brie into the pocket, followed by a generous spoonful of cranberry sauce and a sprinkle of fresh rosemary. Each component should be fairly centered inside, so you get a little bit of everything in every bite. Secure the opening with toothpicks so nothing escapes while cooking!
Step 4: Season the Surface
Sprinkle the outside of your stuffed chicken breasts with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This not only brings out the natural savory flavors but also helps create a crave-worthy crust during searing.
Step 5: Sear for Color
Heat olive oil in your oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear both sides of the stuffed chicken for 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until golden. This step locks in moisture and builds deep, rich flavor that’ll make your Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken irresistible.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet straight into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the chicken cooks through (check for an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). The brie will be oozy, the cranberries bubbling, and your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Don’t forget to remove the toothpicks before plating. For extra flair, drizzle any skillet juices (or even a splash of white wine or broth from deglazing) over the chicken. Each serving is its own little bundle of joy!
How to Serve Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Garnishes
For a final pop of color and flavor, sprinkle a bit more chopped fresh rosemary or even some orange zest over the plated chicken. A few extra spoonfuls of cranberry sauce on the side make each serving look extra festive and inviting.
Side Dishes
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is wonderful alongside wild rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or roasted root vegetables. The savory-sweet flavors love earthy greens like sautéed green beans, and a simple salad with a citrus vinaigrette is always a hit.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing each stuffed chicken breast on the diagonal and fanning out the pieces on a platter for a dramatic presentation. Drizzle with pan juices and dot with extra cranberries to create a restaurant-style effect—perfect for impressing guests or just making your family night extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, leftover Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making leftovers surprisingly crave-worthy for tomorrow’s lunch.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap each cooled, cooked stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to preserve the creamy brie texture.
Reheating
Reheat Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes. This keeps everything tender and melty—just what you want for round two!
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese if I don’t have brie?
Absolutely! While brie gives the most luxurious melt and flavor, soft cheeses like camembert, fontina, or even mozzarella can work in a pinch. Each will bring its own personality to your Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, simply sear the chicken in any sturdy pan, then transfer the stuffed breasts to a baking dish to finish in the oven. You’ll still get that beautiful golden sear and melty filling.
Can I prep this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can butterfly and stuff the chicken, then wrap and refrigerate overnight. When ready to cook, just proceed with searing and baking as directed. It’s a major time-saver for holidays or dinner parties!
Is it possible to make Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken gluten-free?
Great news—this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written! Just be sure your cranberry sauce and other add-ins are certified gluten-free if needed for your dietary needs.
How can I tell if the stuffed chicken is cooked through?
The best way to ensure perfectly cooked Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part for safe, juicy results.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken! It’s the kind of dish that instantly creates happy memories, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or you’re hosting a crowd. The blend of creamy brie, sweet cranberry, and tender chicken is truly unforgettable—give it a go and let it become a new favorite in your kitchen!
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Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the perfect blend of savory and sweet with this Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken recipe. Tender chicken breasts filled with creamy brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and fragrant rosemary, creating a dish that’s both elegant and comforting.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Stuffing:
- 4 ounces brie cheese, sliced
- 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Additional:
- Toothpicks for securing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Chicken: Cut a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast. Stuff with brie, cranberry sauce, and rosemary. Secure with toothpicks.
- Season and Sear: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear in a skillet with olive oil until golden.
- Bake: Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove toothpicks before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, deglaze the skillet with white wine or chicken broth and drizzle over chicken before baking.
- Pairs well with wild rice or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 310 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 43 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
