Description
This Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts stuffed with creamy Brie cheese and tangy cranberry sauce. Searing the chicken creates a golden crust before baking to perfection. It’s a flavorful and elegant dish perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Stuffing
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 oz Brie cheese, sliced
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (fresh or canned)
Seasoning and Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature by the time the chicken is seared and ready for baking.
- Prepare Chicken Pockets: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being cautious not to slice all the way through, creating space for the filling.
- Season Chicken: Season each chicken breast generously with salt, pepper, and dried thyme to enhance flavor before stuffing.
- Stuff Chicken: Fill each pocket with slices of Brie cheese and about 2 tablespoons of cranberry sauce. Secure the openings with toothpicks if needed to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust.
- Bake Chicken: Transfer the skillet with the seared chicken to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the Brie cheese inside has melted.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Carefully remove the toothpicks and garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme before serving to add an aromatic touch.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
- You can use either fresh or canned cranberry sauce based on convenience and preference.
- Use an oven-safe skillet to easily transfer from stove to oven.
- Letting the chicken rest after baking helps retain juices and keeps it moist.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste; adding a pinch of garlic powder can enhance flavor.
