Intro and Brief Recap
Have you ever experienced the perfect harmony of sweet and savory in one bite? Imagine tender chicken breasts, oozing with creamy Brie cheese and tart cranberry sauce, creating an unforgettable flavor journey. The aroma wafting from the oven is simply irresistible, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that transforms any ordinary dinner into an elegant occasion.
Growing up, family dinners were always a special time filled with laughter and delicious food. I remember my mother preparing various chicken dishes, but nothing quite captured our hearts like the combination of chicken, cheese, and fruit. This recipe holds a special place in my heart as it brings back those cherished memories while introducing a modern twist. Perfect for a cozy family night or an intimate gathering with friends, this dish will impress your guests and create lasting memories. Let’s dive into this easy yet elegant dinner recipe that promises an amazing flavor experience.
Key Ingredients For Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken | Easy Elegant Dinner Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for serving 4 people; they should be of uniform thickness for even cooking.
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Brie Cheese: Choose a good quality Brie for its rich creaminess that melts beautifully inside the chicken.
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Cranberry Sauce: You can use homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce; ensure it has a good balance of sweetness and tartness.
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Fresh Thyme: Opt for fresh thyme for its aromatic flavor, enhancing both the chicken and the cheese.
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to keep the chicken moist during cooking and add depth to the flavor.
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Salt and Pepper: Freshly ground salt and pepper are essential for seasoning your chicken perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Instructions For Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken | Easy Elegant Dinner Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
First Step : Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by spraying it lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
Second Step : Prepare the Chicken
Carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket for stuffing. Be sure not to cut all the way through; you want each breast to hold its shape.
Third Step : Stuff the Chicken
Inside each pocket, add slices of Brie cheese followed by a generous spoonful of cranberry sauce. Sprinkle some fresh thyme leaves over the top before closing the pockets securely with toothpicks.
Fourth Step : Season the Chicken
Drizzle olive oil over each stuffed chicken breast, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Fifth Step : Bake
Place the stuffed chicken in your prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining cranberry sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Expert Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
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Pound Your Chicken Breasts: Gently pound each breast to an even thickness before stuffing; this promotes even cooking.
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Select Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality Brie and homemade cranberry sauce intensifies flavors significantly.
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Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing stuffed chicken to rest for about five minutes after baking helps retain juices and enhances taste.
Preparation Steps
To create your Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken | Easy Elegant Dinner Recipe, follow these straightforward steps for the best results. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While your oven warms up, prepare the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally to create pockets for the stuffing. Season both sides with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.
Next, take a generous amount of brie cheese and cranberry sauce. Stuff each pocket with a slice of brie and a spoonful of cranberry sauce. Make sure not to overstuff the chicken to prevent spills during cooking. Secure the openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine for easy handling.
Once the chicken is stuffed, heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, which usually takes about 4-5 minutes per side. This step adds flavor and texture to your dish.
After searing, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let it rest before serving.
Serving Suggestions
The Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken | Easy Elegant Dinner Recipe makes an impressive centerpiece for any meal. Serve it alongside:
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Roasted Vegetables: A colorful mix of seasonal veggies can complement the rich flavors of the stuffed chicken.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes will bring comfort and balance to this elegant dish.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad dressed with vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy chicken.
Storage Recommendations
For optimal freshness, store any leftover Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for up to three days when properly stored. For longer storage, you can freeze cooked chicken by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or placing it in a freezer-safe container. This will keep it fresh for up to three months.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm it gently in the oven at a low temperature or microwave until heated through. This method helps retain moisture and flavor without drying out the chicken.
FAQs
What variations can I make for Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken?
You can personalize your Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken | Easy Elegant Dinner Recipe by incorporating different ingredients into your stuffing. Consider using goat cheese instead of brie for a tangy flavor or adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch. You might also try adding herbs such as thyme or rosemary into the stuffing mixture for an aromatic twist that complements both cranberry and cheese beautifully.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can adapt it using turkey cutlets or pork chops as alternatives. Ensure you adjust cooking times according to the thickness of your meat choice. Both options will deliver delightful flavors when paired with cranberry and brie.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken | Easy Elegant Dinner Recipe is perfect for meal prep. Cook several portions at once and store them individually in airtight containers. Pair them with different sides throughout the week to keep your meals exciting while enjoying this delicious dish multiple times.
What wine pairs well with stuffed chicken?
A great wine pairing enhances your dining experience with Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken | Easy Elegant Dinner Recipe. Consider serving a light-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or a fruity red like Pinot Noir. Both options complement the richness of brie and sweetness from cranberries without overpowering your meal’s flavors.
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. Tender chicken breasts are filled with creamy Brie cheese and tangy cranberry sauce, creating a culinary experience that’s both elegant and comforting. Ideal for family dinners or special gatherings, this recipe is simple yet impressive, ensuring your guests will be raving about it long after the meal is over.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 8 ounces Brie cheese, sliced
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each pocket with slices of Brie cheese, a spoonful of cranberry sauce, and sprinkle fresh thyme on top. Secure the openings with toothpicks.
- Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
- Place in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Serve drizzled with remaining cranberry sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg