Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and elegant dish that combines tender chicken breasts with creamy brie cheese and tart cranberry sauce. This flavorful dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home, delivering a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 ounces brie cheese, rind removed and cut into slices
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for added crunch)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (for drizzling, optional)

Timing

Making Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.
2. Butterfly Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch). Carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally, ensuring not to cut all the way through.

Step 2: Stuff the Chicken

1. Season: Season the inside and outside of each chicken breast with salt and pepper.
2. Add Filling: Spread about 1 tablespoon of cranberry sauce inside each chicken breast. Top with slices of brie cheese and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves.
3. Seal: Fold the chicken breasts over to enclose the filling. If desired, secure with toothpicks to hold the stuffing in place.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Serve

1. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
2. Slice and Enjoy: Slice the stuffed chicken breasts and serve warm. Pair with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	30g
Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	10g
Sugar	4g

Tips for Customization

• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the stuffing for added texture and flavor.
• Different Cheeses: Substitute brie with other soft cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese for a different taste.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs such as rosemary or sage for additional flavor.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful and impressive dish that combines the richness of brie cheese with the tartness of cranberry sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends!

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts in advance and refrigerate them. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze the stuffed chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked stuffed chicken. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.