When I think of comfort food, Brie-Stuffed Chicken instantly comes to mind. Juicy chicken paired with creamy brie, sautéed spinach, and a touch of sweetness from cranberries makes for a mouthwatering experience that I can’t resist. Whether for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish to showcase at a gathering, this recipe never disappoints!
What Makes This So Good:
- Creamy, melted brie adds rich flavor.
- Fresh spinach provides a nutritious touch.
- Dried cranberries introduce a sweet contrast.
- Perfectly seasoned chicken keeps it savory.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds or 680 grams)
- 8 ounces (about 227 grams) brie cheese, cut into slices
- 2 cups (about 60 grams) fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup (about 150 grams) dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon (15 mL) olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) onion powder
Smart Swaps:
- For a healthier option: Use low-fat cream cheese instead of brie.
- For a vegetarian twist: Substitute tofu for chicken and follow the same stuffing method with added veggies.
- If cranberries are unavailable: Swap for chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Sourcing Tips:
When shopping for brie, look for a cheese that feels slightly soft but still holds its shape, indicating freshness. Fresh spinach should be vibrant green, with no wilting or browning.
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté the Filling: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the dried cranberries and set aside.
- Season Chicken Breasts: Generously season each chicken breast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
- Create Pockets: With a sharp knife, cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to slice all the way through.
- Stuff the Chicken: Fill each pocket with slices of brie cheese and the spinach-cranberry mixture.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing to let the juices settle. Enjoy alongside your favorite sides!
Safety Note:
Be cautious when handling hot chicken and be sure to avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards for raw chicken and other ingredients.
Serving Ideas:
Serve the Brie-Stuffed Chicken with a refreshing salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. A glass of white wine would beautifully complement the flavors.
Storage:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place chicken in an oven-safe dish and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Pro Tips:
- Make-ahead: Prepare the chicken and stuff it a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.
- Transporting: If you’re taking this dish to a gathering, bake it at home, then cover it tightly with foil for transport.
- Re-crisping: To achieve a crispy exterior, quickly sear the stuffed chicken in a hot skillet before placing it in the oven.
Quick Variations:
- Herbed Brie: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the stuffing for added flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Different Cheeses: Try using goat cheese or gouda instead of brie for a different flavor profile.
Now, gather your ingredients and experience the joy of making this delightful dish!
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Delightful Brie-Stuffed Chicken
Juicy chicken paired with creamy brie, sautéed spinach, and a touch of sweetness from cranberries for a mouthwatering meal.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds or 680 grams)
- 8 ounces (about 227 grams) brie cheese, cut into slices
- 2 cups (about 60 grams) fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup (about 150 grams) dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon (15 mL) olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté the Filling: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the dried cranberries and set aside.
- Season Chicken Breasts: Generously season each chicken breast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
- Create Pockets: With a sharp knife, cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to slice all the way through.
- Stuff the Chicken: Fill each pocket with slices of brie cheese and the spinach-cranberry mixture.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing and enjoy with your favorite sides!
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
