Perfect Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Recipe for Dinner

Imagine slicing into a perfectly golden chicken breast to reveal a gooey, creamy brie center with the tangy sweetness of cranberry spilling out like a delicious surprise. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water, and the first bite? Pure bliss. The combination of savory chicken, rich cheese, and tart cranberries creates a symphony of flavors that feels elegant yet comforting. The first time I made this Perfect Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken, I knew it was something special—one of those dishes you’ll crave again and again.

Honestly, this recipe came to me during a cool autumn evening when I was brainstorming ways to use up leftover cranberry sauce and a wedge of brie from a holiday party. I decided to try stuffing them into chicken breasts, and it was one of those “smile and savor the moment” meals. My family couldn’t stop gushing about it, and it’s now a regular request at our dinner table. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests, this recipe is a keeper. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant yet simple: It looks like you spent hours in the kitchen, but it’s surprisingly easy to make.
• Flavorful and unique: The combo of creamy brie, sweet-tart cranberry, and tender chicken is absolutely unforgettable.
• Perfect for entertaining: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or celebrating a holiday, this dish is sure to impress.
• Customizable: You can tweak the filling or seasonings to match your taste.
• Great for any season: Works beautifully with fresh cranberries in the fall or store-bought cranberry sauce year-round.
• Simple ingredients: No fancy kitchen tools or specialty items required—just good, wholesome ingredients.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors and textures. The creaminess of the brie pairs effortlessly with the tartness of cranberries, while the chicken provides the perfect savory canvas. It’s one of those meals that feels both indulgent and comforting, yet it’s easy enough for a quick dinner. Plus, it’s a fun way to surprise your guests with an unexpected burst of flavor inside every bite!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Most of these items are pantry staples or easy to find at your local store.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and medium-sized—perfect for stuffing.
• Brie cheese: Soft and creamy brie adds a luxurious texture and richness.
• Cranberry sauce: Homemade or store-bought; opt for a whole berry variety for a chunkier filling.
• Fresh rosemary: Adds a fragrant, earthy note (you can substitute with thyme if you prefer).
• Garlic: One or two cloves, minced, to add depth of flavor.
• Olive oil: For searing the chicken and keeping it juicy.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and bringing out the flavors.
• Honey or maple syrup: For a touch of sweetness in the cranberry filling.
• Toothpicks: Essential for securing the stuffed chicken breasts while cooking.

Feel free to mix things up! If you don’t have fresh rosemary, dried works in a pinch. You can also use leftover holiday cranberry sauce—it’s a great way to use what you already have on hand.

Equipment Needed

• Cutting board: For prepping the chicken and chopping herbs.
• Sharp knife: To butterfly the chicken breasts with precision.
• Mixing bowl: For combining the cranberry and brie filling.
• Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet works best for searing the chicken.
• Baking dish: To finish cooking the chicken in the oven.
• Tongs: For flipping the chicken during searing.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked to perfection.

If you don’t have a skillet that can go straight into the oven, no worries—simply transfer the chicken to a baking dish after searing. And if you’re using toothpicks to secure the chicken, soak them in water beforehand to prevent burning.

Preparation Method

Follow these simple steps to make your Perfect Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken:

1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to butterfly them. Slice horizontally into the thickest part, being careful not to cut all the way through, and open them like a book.
3. Season the chicken: Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper. Set aside.
4. Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Stir until well blended.
5. Add the brie: Cut the brie into thin slices and place a couple of slices inside each butterflied chicken breast.
6. Stuff the chicken: Spoon the cranberry mixture on top of the brie inside each chicken breast. Close the chicken breasts and secure the edges with toothpicks.
7. Sear the chicken: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for about 2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
8. Finish in the oven: Transfer the skillet (or chicken breasts) to a baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
9. Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Carefully remove the toothpicks and serve warm.

Pro tip: If your cranberry sauce is too runny, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken it up before using it as filling.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to ensure your Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken turns out perfectly:

• Don’t overstuff: Too much filling can spill out during cooking. Keep it balanced.
• Butterfly with care: Take your time slicing the chicken, aiming for even thickness without cutting all the way through.
• Use toothpicks wisely: Soak them in water before using to prevent burning in the oven.
• Sear for flavor: Searing the chicken creates a golden crust and locks in juices—don’t skip this step!
• Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through without drying out.

And here’s a little secret: a sprinkle of crushed walnuts on top before baking adds a delightful crunch and elevates the texture!

Variations & Adaptations

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun variations:

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free cranberry sauce and double-check that all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Low-carb: Substitute the cranberry sauce with a sugar-free version, or use diced sun-dried tomatoes for a savory twist.
• Seasonal flavors: Swap the cranberry sauce with apricot preserves or fig jam for a summer-inspired dish.
• Nuts & crunch: Add crushed pecans or almonds to the filling for extra texture and nutty flavor.
• Vegetarian option: Use large portobello mushrooms instead of chicken breasts and fill them with the cranberry-brie mixture.

One of my favorite variations is adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the cranberry mixture—it gives the dish a subtle smokiness that’s to die for!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this dish warm with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the brie and cranberries. A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling apple cider pairs beautifully with the meal.

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave it for a quicker option, though the oven will keep the texture intact. Fun fact: the flavors intensify overnight, making leftovers even tastier!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g

The chicken provides lean protein, while the brie offers calcium and creamy indulgence. Cranberries are not just delicious—they’re packed with antioxidants that support your immune system. This dish strikes a balance between satisfying flavors and nutritional benefits, making it a great addition to your dinner rotation.

Conclusion

There you have it—Perfect Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a recipe that’s worth every bite. Whether you’re cooking for guests, family, or just yourself, this dish is a guaranteed hit. The creamy brie, tangy cranberries, and juicy chicken make a winning combination that’s comforting yet elegant. It’s easy to customize, and the leftovers are just as delicious.

I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own. Let me know in the comments how you like it or any twists you’ve added! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—they’ll thank you, I promise.

So roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and treat yourself to a plate of this heavenly stuffed chicken. You deserve it!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before butterflying and stuffing to ensure even cooking.

Can I use goat cheese instead of brie?

Absolutely! Goat cheese is a great substitute and adds a tangy flavor that complements the cranberries beautifully.

What can I use instead of cranberry sauce?

If cranberries aren’t your thing, you can use apricot preserves, fig jam, or even a savory tomato-based chutney.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Don’t overstuff the chicken and make sure to seal it tightly with toothpicks. Searing the chicken before baking also helps lock in the filling.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can stuff the chicken breasts a few hours ahead and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.

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