Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances creamy, tangy, and savory flavors with a pop of vibrant color, you absolutely must try this Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie Recipe. The tender chicken breasts are generously filled with a luscious combination of sautéed spinach, sweet dried cranberries, and melty brie cheese, making each bite a delightful mix of textures and tastes. This recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s also surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a wonderful option for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for straightforward, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a complex flavor profile. Every ingredient plays an important role, from the vibrant spinach adding freshness to the cranberries providing a lovely sweetness, while the brie brings that luxurious creamy finish.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect blank canvas for stuffing and cooking evenly.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the spinach and sear the chicken to golden perfection.
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves: Adds bright color and earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cheese and cranberries.
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries: Offers a chewy sweetness that balances the richness of the cheese.
• 4 ounces brie cheese, sliced: Melts beautifully inside the chicken, adding creaminess and a mild tang.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the filling.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory notes in the dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings a fragrant herbal touch that complements both chicken and stuffing.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist while baking and forms the base for a simple pan sauce.

How to Make Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly once stuffed and seared.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Place each chicken breast on a cutting board and carefully create a pocket by slicing into the side. This pocket will hold the flavorful stuffing, so make sure not to cut all the way through.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Generously season both the inside and outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme—this layers the flavors and ensures every bite is seasoned perfectly.

Step 4: Sauté the Spinach

In a pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the fresh spinach until wilted. This process intensifies the spinach’s flavor and reduces moisture, making it ideal for stuffing.

Step 5: Mix the Filling

Once the spinach has cooled slightly, combine it with the dried cranberries in a small bowl. The juicy sweetness of cranberries paired with earthy spinach creates an irresistible stuffing mixture.

Step 6: Stuff the Chicken

Spoon equal portions of the spinach and cranberry blend into each chicken pocket, then layer in slices of creamy brie cheese. The cheese will melt during cooking, binding the stuffing and adding dreamy richness.

Step 7: Secure the Stuffed Chicken

Use toothpicks to seal the chicken breasts so none of the stuffing escapes while cooking. This simple step helps maintain that gorgeous presentation and ensures maximum flavor inside.

Step 8: Sear the Chicken

Heat the remaining olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear each stuffed chicken breast for about 3 minutes per side, achieving a golden-brown crust that locks in juices and adds a delicious texture.

Step 9: Add Broth and Bake

Pour chicken broth into the skillet with the chicken, then transfer the whole pan to your preheated oven. The broth helps keep everything moist and creates a subtle pan sauce.

Step 10: Bake Until Perfect

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This timing ensures that the cheese is melted and the flavors have melded beautifully.

Step 11: Rest and Serve

Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Resting helps the juices redistribute for tender, juicy slices every time.

How to Serve Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie Recipe

Garnishes

For an elegant touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme leaves over the chicken before serving. A few extra dried cranberries scattered on the plate add a pop of color that’s as charming as it is tasty.

Side Dishes

This Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie Recipe pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides like roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a citrusy quinoa salad. These sides complement the savory and sweet notes of the chicken without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the stuffed chicken breasts to showcase the colorful filling inside for a stunning plate presentation. Serve along with a drizzle of the pan juices or a simple vinaigrette to add brightness and elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover stuffed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the toothpicks in place helps maintain the shape and keeps the filling intact.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie Recipe by wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to retain moisture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) or in a skillet over medium-low heat to prevent drying out. Reheating slowly allows the brie to stay creamy and the chicken to remain juicy.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of brie?

Absolutely! While brie offers a creamy and mild flavor, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like camembert or even mozzarella for a different twist.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the brie with a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well, or omit it altogether and add extra herbs and spices for flavor.

Can I prepare the stuffing in advance?

Yes, you can mix the spinach and cranberry stuffing a few hours ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This can help speed up your cooking process on the day you want to serve.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), which ensures the chicken is safe to eat and perfectly juicy.

What wine pairs well with this Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie Recipe?

A light to medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or a fruity Pinot Noir complements the creamy, sweet, and herbal flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give this Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that feels special yet so manageable in your own kitchen. The combination of flavors and textures delivers a comforting and exciting meal that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Cooking this is a delicious adventure that rewards you with a beautiful plate and happy smiles all around.

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