If you’re searching for a showstopping dinner that feels both comforting and incredibly special, look no further than Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken. This dish is all about juicy, oven-baked chicken breasts revealing a surprise core of creamy Brie and vibrant cranberry sauce with every slice. The harmonious mix of sweet-tart berries and rich cheese, all tucked into tender chicken, delivers a memorable main course that you’ll crave again and again. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want to spice up a weeknight, this recipe is bound to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of carefully chosen ingredients to bring Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken to life, and each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. These staples come together quickly, but the results taste gourmet every single time.
- Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless pieces for easy stuffing and ultimate tenderness.
- Whole berry cranberry sauce: Offers a pop of tart-sweet flavor and gorgeous red color inside every slice.
- Brie cheese: Melts into a luscious, creamy layer that pairs beautifully with the cranberries.
- Olive oil: Helps achieve a golden, flavorful sear on the chicken for irresistible texture.
- Dried thyme: Adds an earthy herbal note that highlights both the chicken and the creamy Brie.
- Garlic powder: Gives a subtle, aromatic kick without overpowering the delicate filling.
- Salt and pepper: Essential to properly season the chicken and tie all the flavors together.
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine: Keeps everything snugly wrapped while baking—no lost filling here!
How to Make Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, butterfly each chicken breast by placing a hand on top and carefully slicing horizontally with a sharp knife, stopping just before cutting through. Open the breast like a book—this creates the perfect pocket for all that delicious filling.
Step 2: Season Inside and Out
Generously season the inside of each butterflied chicken breast with salt, pepper, a sprinkle of garlic powder, and dried thyme. This ensures every bite has maximum flavor, and those warm spices will linger in the background, enhancing both the chicken and the filling.
Step 3: Add the Filling
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of whole berry cranberry sauce into the center of each open breast. Lay a few thick slices of creamy Brie cheese right on top. The cheese and berries will mingle as they cook, turning into a gooey, sweet-and-savory core.
Step 4: Fold and Secure
Carefully fold the chicken back over to enclose the cranberry and Brie filling. Secure the open edges with toothpicks or some kitchen twine. This step is key—keeping the stuffing inside makes for the prettiest presentation and ooziest middle!
Step 5: Sear to Perfection
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add your stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until they’re a lovely golden brown. This gives them a great crust while locking in all those juices.
Step 6: Bake Until Juicy
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The Brie melts, the cranberries bubble, and the whole kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly. Rest the chicken for 5 minutes before handing out plates—this lets the juices settle and makes slicing easier.
How to Serve Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken
Garnishes
A final sprinkle of fresh thyme or finely chopped parsley on top adds a flash of color and an extra layer of flavor. For even more showstopping flair, spoon an extra drizzle of warm cranberry sauce over each piece to echo the filling.
Side Dishes
Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken shines alongside simple sides that soak up the flavors. Think creamy mashed potatoes, a pile of buttery rice, or a tangle of roasted green beans. Anything mellow and comforting works beautifully—let the chicken take center stage!
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, try slicing the chicken breasts and fanning them out on a platter so the vibrant filling is on display. Or, serve each breast whole on individual plates with a scattering of microgreens and an extra spoonful of cranberry sauce for a dramatic, restaurant-worthy effect.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store pieces in an airtight container, and try to remove any toothpicks or twine before storing for easy reheating later.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked stuffed chicken for up to 2 months. Let the chicken breasts cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil before placing in a freezer bag. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, gently cover with foil, and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through—about 15 minutes. For a speedier option, the microwave works too, but the oven preserves the best texture and melts the Brie just right.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese if I don’t have Brie?
Absolutely! Goat cheese or even a mild cream cheese make fantastic substitutes. Each will have its own unique melt and flavor profile, but all pair warmly with the cranberry filling in this dish.
Is it possible to make this ahead of time?
Yes—you can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts a few hours ahead and refrigerate them (covered) until ready to cook. Just let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before searing and baking.
What kind of cranberry sauce is best?
Whole berry cranberry sauce works best for texture and visual appeal, but feel free to use your favorite homemade version or a quality store-bought option. Avoid the super-gelled canned kind for optimal results.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use an instant-read thermometer—your Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken should register 165°F at the thickest part. If you don’t have a thermometer, pierce the chicken: juices should run clear, not pink.
Can I add leafy greens or other fillings?
Definitely! A few fresh spinach leaves or even sliced roasted peppers add beautiful color and an extra flavor twist to the filling. Just don’t overstuff, so the chicken seals nicely around all the good stuff.
Final Thoughts
Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken isn’t just another chicken dinner—it’s a celebration on a plate! With its irresistible combination of creamy, fruity, savory goodness, this recipe is sure to wow your crowd and become a favorite in your kitchen too. Give it a try and savor every bite!
