Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

If you are looking for a dish that combines elegance with comfort and a burst of seasonal flavor, the Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful meal features tender chicken breasts generously stuffed with creamy Brie cheese, vibrant spinach, and tart cranberries, creating a harmony of taste and texture that feels both luxurious and heartwarming. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special family dinner, this recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that tastes like a celebration on your plate.

The image shows two thick slices of stuffed chicken on a white plate. Each slice has three main layers visible: a golden brown outer layer of cooked chicken, a middle layer of melted white cheese, and a layer of dark green spinach leaves just inside. The top of the chicken is covered with a shiny, deep red cranberry sauce sprinkled with small green herbs and crumbs. The background surface is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe. Each element plays a vital role in balancing the savory, sweet, and tangy notes, while also contributing to the overall texture and color that make this dish so visually inviting.

  • 4 chicken breasts: These provide a succulent and protein-packed base for the stuffing, ensuring each bite is juicy and satisfying.
  • 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the delicate ingredients inside.
  • 1 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and depth.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder: Brings a subtle robustness that complements both the chicken and the stuffing.
  • 1 tsp paprika: Infuses a mild smokiness and lovely color to the chicken.
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to a beautiful golden crust before baking.
  • 1 Tbsp butter: Used to sauté the stuffing ingredients, adding richness.
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic brightens the spinach and cranberry mixture with aromatic flavor.
  • 1 cup chopped spinach: Adds earthiness, vibrant green color, and a tender bite inside the chicken pockets.
  • ½ cup dried cranberries (or ¾ cup fresh chopped cranberries): These juicy bursts of tartness are the star accents for this recipe’s festive flair.
  • 4–6 oz Brie, sliced: The creamy, melt-in-your-mouth cheese that elevates the whole dish into something truly special.
  • 2 Tbsp butter (for sauce): Builds a luscious base for the savory-sweet sauce that ties the final flavors together.
  • ½ cup chicken broth: Adds depth and a subtle savory note to the sauce.
  • 2–3 Tbsp cranberry sauce or jelly: Brings extra sweetness and a beautifully rich cranberry essence to the sauce.
  • 1 Tbsp honey: A gentle touch of natural sweetness that balances the tangy ingredients.
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Lends a smooth, slightly sharp kick that brightens the sauce.
  • Salt + pepper to taste: For final seasoning adjustments, to ensure every bite is perfectly flavored.

How to Make Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an oven-safe skillet or baking dish so the chicken doesn’t stick during baking. Proper preheating ensures even cooking for tender, juicy results.

Step 2: Butterfly and Season the Chicken

Carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. This technique allows you to stuff the chicken while keeping it securely closed during cooking. Season generously inside and out with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to layer in flavor right from the start.

Step 3: Make the Stuffing

Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a pan and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until it just wilts, preserving its vibrant color and texture. Stir in the cranberries, infusing the mixture with bursts of tart sweetness that will contrast beautifully with the creamy Brie.

Step 4: Stuff the Chicken

Spoon the spinach and cranberry mixture inside each pocket, then layer on slices of Brie. The cheese will melt gloriously in the oven, binding all the flavors together. Fold the edges of the chicken over the filling and secure with toothpicks if necessary to keep everything snug while cooking.

Step 5: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken breast for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown. This step locks in juices and adds a gorgeous outer crust that contrasts with the tender filling.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the stuffed chicken for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melty and inviting. This final bake melds the flavors and ensures the chicken is cooked through with a moist center.

Step 7: Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken is baking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan. Stir in the chicken broth, cranberry sauce or jelly, honey, and Dijon mustard. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes to thicken slightly and develop a silky texture that complements the dish perfectly.

Step 8: Serve

Remove toothpicks from the chicken breasts, slice them elegantly, and drizzle the luscious cranberry sauce over the top. This finishing touch adds brightness, a stunning glaze, and an irresistible aroma that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

How to Serve Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

The image shows two pieces of stuffed chicken on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. Each piece has three visible layers: a crispy golden brown outer skin with herbs sprinkled on top, a thick layer of melted pale yellow cheese just inside, and a dark red cranberry filling in the center. The outer skin also has small toasted bits, adding texture. The stuffed chicken sits in a pool of vibrant red berry sauce, garnished with chopped green herbs sprinkled on both the chicken and sauce. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley make beautiful garnishes that add a burst of color and an herbal note that complements the rich Brie and sweet cranberries. Toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkled over the top also bring a wonderful crunch and nutty depth.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery roasted sweet potatoes, both of which soak up the delicious sauce perfectly. For a lighter option, serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or simple steamed green beans to balance the richness of the chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the stuffed chicken breasts and arrange the slices fanned out on a large serving platter for an elegant presentation. Alternatively, serve individual stuffed breasts on warmed plates with a drizzle of cranberry sauce artistically swirled around the edges. For a festive touch, plate with a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds or edible flowers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from this Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to mellow and even intensify, making tasty next-day meals or snacks.

Freezing

You can prepare and stuff the chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance, then freeze them uncooked in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed for fresh results.

Reheating

The best way to reheat leftovers is by baking them at 325°F until warmed through, which helps retain moisture and prevents the chicken from drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, to keep the cheese soft and the textures just right.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of Brie?

Absolutely! While Brie is wonderfully creamy and mild, swapping it for Camembert, goat cheese, or Havarti can add new flavor nuances while maintaining that luxurious melty texture inside your chicken breasts.

What if I don’t have fresh cranberries?

Dried cranberries work beautifully in this recipe and provide a nice chewy texture. You can also use cranberry sauce or jelly right in the stuffing for a sweeter touch, just adjust the amount to taste to keep the balance perfect.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts the day before and keep them refrigerated, then bake them fresh when ready to serve. This makes it a fantastic meal prep option for a special dinner with minimal stress.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?

While this recipe is designed for oven baking, you could carefully grill the stuffed chicken breasts after searing, but be sure to use indirect heat to avoid burning the outside before the cheese melts thoroughly inside.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mild and flavorful rather than spicy, with warm notes from paprika and just a hint of pepper. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding cayenne or chili flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe that makes it feel like a joyous occasion every time you make it. With its perfect mix of creamy, savory, sweet, and tangy, it’s a recipe that is totally worth adding to your regular rotation. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will quickly become one of your favorites to share with friends and family.

Print

Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

Delight in these Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken Breasts, featuring tender chicken pockets filled with creamy Brie, savory spinach, and tangy cranberries, finished with a luscious cranberry honey sauce. This elegant yet easy dish combines searing and baking techniques to create a flavorful, juicy entrée perfect for special dinners or holiday meals.

  • Author: Cara
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil (for searing)

Stuffing

  • 1 Tbsp butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped
  • ½ cup dried cranberries (or ¾ cup fresh chopped cranberries)
  • 46 oz Brie, sliced

Sauce

  • 2 Tbsp butter (for sauce)
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 23 Tbsp cranberry sauce or jelly
  • 1 Tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt + pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease an oven-safe skillet or baking dish to prepare for baking the chicken later.
  2. Butterfly Chicken: Slice each chicken breast horizontally creating a pocket inside. Season both sides and inside the pockets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to infuse flavor.
  3. Prepare Stuffing: Melt butter in a pan over medium heat, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in dried or fresh cranberries, then remove the mixture from heat.
  4. Stuff: Spoon the spinach and cranberry mixture evenly into each chicken breast pocket. Layer sliced Brie over the stuffing. Fold the chicken breasts over and secure with toothpicks if needed to keep the filling inside.
  5. Sear: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown, sealing in the juices.
  6. Bake: Transfer the skillet or chicken breasts to the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked.
  7. Make Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter and add chicken broth, cranberry sauce, honey, and Dijon mustard. Simmer the sauce for 5–7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve: Remove toothpicks from chicken breasts, slice if desired, drizzle the cranberry honey sauce generously on top, and garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble and stuff the chicken breasts up to 24 hours ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate until ready to cook.
  • Variations: Substitute Brie with Camembert, goat cheese, or Havarti for different flavor profiles.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Reheat baked chicken at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through to maintain juiciness and flavor.

Keywords: stuffed chicken breasts, cranberry Brie chicken, baked chicken, holiday chicken recipe, chicken breast stuffing, cranberry sauce chicken, Brie cheese chicken

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating