If you’re looking to elevate your dinner game with something both impressive and irresistibly delicious, then the Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious filling of creamy Brie, vibrant fresh spinach, and sweet-tart dried cranberries, creating a symphony of flavors that feels both comforting and elegant. It’s straightforward to prepare, yet perfect for special occasions or a delightful weeknight treat. Once you make it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this savory-sweet masterpiece on your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, and the simplicity is what makes the Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie Recipe so special. From fresh greens to creamy cheese and vibrant dried cranberries, these ingredients bring color, texture, and unforgettable flavor to your dish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are the perfect vessel for your stuffing, tender and juicy when cooked right.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: Adds a fresh, slightly earthy flavor plus a lovely pop of green.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: Brings a sweet-tart zing that perfectly balances the richness of the Brie.
- 4 ounces Brie cheese, sliced: The creamy, buttery cheese that melts to create a decadent, luscious filling.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken to a golden perfection.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory depth to the chicken seasonings.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the flavor with subtle sweetness and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential seasoning that brings all the flavors together.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A mild hint of spice to complement the filling and chicken.
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine: Keeps the stuffed chicken securely closed during cooking.
How to Make Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F so it’s ready when you finish prepping. Then carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally to create a pocket—take your time here to avoid cutting all the way through. This pocket will hold your delicious filling, so a clean cut makes all the difference. Next, season both sides generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning base is subtle but vital, giving your chicken a savory boost that complements the stuffing perfectly.
Step 2: Create the Spinach and Cranberry Filling
In a small bowl, combine the chopped fresh spinach and dried cranberries. This mix is where the magic starts—the fresh spinach brings gorgeous color and a mild earthy flavor, while the cranberries introduce a bright, sweet-tart contrast that pairs beautifully with the Brie cheese waiting to be added next.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken Breasts
Now it’s time to assemble! Open each butterflied chicken breast and add a few slices of Brie cheese first—this creamy layer will melt beautifully inside. Spoon a generous amount of the spinach-cranberry mixture over the Brie, filling the pocket with vibrant flavor and texture. Carefully fold the chicken back over and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep everything snug and intact during cooking.
Step 4: Sear and Bake to Perfection
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place your stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for about 2–3 minutes on each side. This step locks in the juices and creates a beautiful golden crust that enhances flavor and texture. Once seared, transfer the skillet straight into your preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes—this small pause keeps your chicken juicy and tender when sliced.
How to Serve Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few extra dried cranberries scattered on top not only adds a burst of color but also brings a lively finish to this hearty dish. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze can also elevate the flavors without overpowering the delicate balance you’ve created inside the chicken.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving with wild rice to soak up any juices or a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables to round out the meal beautifully. Even a simple, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the creamy richness of the filling and keep the plate fresh and inviting.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your stuffed chicken breasts diagonally for an elegant presentation that showcases the beautiful layers of Brie, spinach, and cranberries. Arrange them on a platter with contrasting greens or even edible flowers for a festive touch. This dish also works perfectly for plated dinners or buffet-style gatherings where the visual appeal counts as much as the taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be hard to come by!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken breast intact ensures the flavors stay sealed in and the Brie remains creamy without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before cooking. Wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then cook following the recipe instructions. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeknights.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a 325°F oven for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the chicken’s juiciness without overcooking the Brie, unlike microwaving, which can sometimes cause the cheese to separate.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries are more tart and contain more moisture, which might alter the texture of the filling. If you prefer fresh, try cooking them down slightly or mixing them with a little sugar to balance the tartness before stuffing.
Is it necessary to butterfly the chicken breasts?
Butterflying allows you to create a pocket for the stuffing, making this dish what it is. However, if you prefer, you can also pound the breasts thin, place the filling on top, and roll them up, securing with toothpicks for a roulade effect.
Can I substitute Brie with another cheese?
Yes! While Brie’s creaminess is integral to this recipe, you can substitute with Camembert for a similar profile or even creamy goat cheese for a tangier twist. Just ensure the cheese melts well to hold your filling together.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
No worries! Sear your chicken breasts in a regular skillet, then transfer them to a baking dish to finish cooking in the oven. Just be sure to use a well-oiled dish to prevent sticking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! All ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making this dish a wonderful option for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone seeking a wholesome, labeled gluten-free meal.
Final Thoughts
The Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie Recipe is truly a show-stopper that feels as special as it tastes. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for family or looking to impress guests, this dish’s blend of savory, sweet, and creamy flavors will win hearts. Dive in, get cooking, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite that everyone asks for again and again.
Print
Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious cranberry and spinach stuffed chicken breasts filled with creamy Brie cheese, seared to golden perfection, and baked until juicy and tender. This elegant yet easy-to-make dish is perfect for holiday dinners or special occasions, offering a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Stuffing
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 4 ounces Brie cheese, sliced
Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the chicken breasts
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the thickest part to create a pocket, taking care not to cut all the way through.
- Season the chicken: Evenly season both sides of each chicken breast with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Make the stuffing: In a small bowl, combine the chopped spinach and dried cranberries, mixing them thoroughly.
- Stuff the chicken: Stuff each butterflied chicken breast with slices of Brie cheese and a generous spoonful of the spinach-cranberry mixture. Secure the openings using toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling intact during cooking.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown, which helps lock in juices and create a flavorful crust.
- Bake the chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Rest and serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken breasts to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use a sharp knife to butterfly the chicken breasts easily and evenly.
- The rind of Brie cheese is edible; however, you can trim it off if you prefer a milder flavor and creamier texture.
- This stuffed chicken pairs beautifully with wild rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
