Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a showstopping main dish that’s both incredibly easy and worthy of a special occasion, it doesn’t get much better than Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken. This recipe marries tender, juicy chicken with creamy brie, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and an optional crunch from pecans. The flavors are vibrant, festive, and guaranteed to wow any dinner guest—even on a regular weeknight! Whether you’re impressing friends or treating your family to something extra delicious, this stuffed chicken is sure to become a new favorite.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken brings a little bit of magic to your plate, from the luscious brie to the herbaceous thyme. Gather these kitchen essentials, and you’ll be amazed at how easily they come together for a restaurant-quality result.

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for stuffing and stay wonderfully juicy when baked.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that amplify the natural flavors of your chicken.
• Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce: Provides a pop of tangy sweetness; you can use homemade or canned.
• Brie Cheese: The irresistibly creamy, melty interior brings richness and elegance to each bite.
• Chopped Pecans (optional): For a lovely nutty crunch—skip these for a nut-free option or substitute with walnuts.
• Olive Oil: Helps sear the chicken to a gorgeous golden brown while keeping things heart-healthy.
• Garlic Powder: Adds depth without overpowering the delicate brie and cranberry flavors.
• Dried Thyme: A classic pairing with chicken that brings earthy notes to balance the dish.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Drizzled before baking for a subtle tangy-sweet finish—don’t skip it!
• Fresh Rosemary or Parsley (optional): A fresh garnish for color and a burst of herbal aroma when serving.

How to Make Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Then, lay each chicken breast flat on your cutting board and carefully slice a pocket into the side—try not to go all the way through. This step creates the perfect cozy nook for your brie and cranberry sauce.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Now, season both sides of every chicken breast with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. This is your chance to infuse the meat with tons of flavor, especially inside the pocket. Don’t be shy!

Step 3: Stuff with Cranberry and Brie

With the pockets ready, spoon about two tablespoons of whole berry cranberry sauce into each one, nestle in a few generous slices of brie, and sprinkle with chopped pecans if you love a bit of crunch. The cranberry, brie, and (if you’re using them) pecans will create just the right harmony of tart, creamy, and toasty.

Step 4: Secure and Sear

If you need to, secure the opening of each chicken breast with toothpicks—they’ll help keep all that gooey goodness inside. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high, then sear each stuffed chicken breast for 2–3 minutes per side, until delightfully golden. This step locks in the juices while adding even more flavor.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Drizzle a little balsamic vinegar over your seared chicken before sliding the pan into your preheated oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the brie is gloriously melted. Let the chicken rest for five minutes out of the oven—trust me, it’s worth the wait!

How to Serve Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken

Garnishes

Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or parsley just before serving. This bright splash of green amps up the visual appeal and offers a fresh, herbal aroma that lifts all the flavors in your stuffed chicken.

Side Dishes

Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken plays beautifully alongside simple roasted vegetables, buttery mashed potatoes, or a fresh leafy salad. For a cozy meal, roasted carrots or green beans are unbeatable, while a wild rice pilaf echoes the nutty pecans in the stuffing if you’re using them.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice each stuffed chicken breast on the diagonal for eye-catching medallions and fan them out on a platter, topped with extra cranberry sauce or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. You can even serve minis as appetizers by slicing the stuffed chicken into bite-sized pieces and skewering with toothpicks!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

In the rare event you have leftover Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making for a delicious next-day lunch or dinner.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap each (cooled) stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can keep them frozen for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

For reheating, preheat your oven to 325°F and cover the chicken with foil to prevent drying out. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through and the brie is melted again. The microwave works in a pinch, but the oven method keeps everything perfectly juicy and gooey.

FAQs

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Thighs are a bit smaller and fattier, but they’re just as delicious stuffed with cranberry and brie. Just adjust the baking time as needed and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What type Main Course

Whole berry cranberry sauce offers a nice texture and bursts of tartness throughout each bite. Homemade or store-bought both work, so use what you love or have on hand.

Is there a good substitute for brie cheese?

Yes! Goat cheese can be used for a tangier twist, or try camembert if you have it—both melt beautifully. Mozzarella is a milder option if brie isn’t your thing.

Can I assemble Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken ahead of time?

Definitely. Stuff and season the chicken, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes dinner prep a breeze when entertaining!

How do I keep the stuffing from leaking out during cooking?

Using toothpicks to secure the chicken closed helps a lot, especially if you’ve generously filled the pockets. Positioning the stuffed side facing up in the pan and not overstuffing will also help keep everything inside.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and impressive, give this Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken a try! Every bite is a delightful mix of savory, sweet, and creamy flavors that’s bound to put a smile on your face. So gather your ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to a memorable homemade dinner.

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