Impressive Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory richness of chicken with the tangy sweetness of cranberries and the creamy goodness of brie cheese. This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also makes for an impressive presentation—the perfect main course for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe for Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Each bite offers a burst of flavor and texture, making it ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or when you want to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Plus, the combination of ingredients provides a beautiful balance of sweet and savory that will have everyone asking for seconds. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and stylish, this is it!
How to Make Impressive Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Preparing this dish is easier than you might think. With just a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
To prepare this delicious Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the fresh cranberries to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and burst, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the honey, orange juice, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Remove the cranberry mixture from the heat and set it aside to cool.
- Cut a pocket in the center of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast with equal amounts of the brie cheese pieces.
- Spoon a portion of the cooled cranberry mixture into each chicken breast, over the brie cheese.
- Secure the opening of each chicken breast with toothpicks.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- While searing, combine the panko breadcrumbs and melted butter in a small bowl.
- Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and spread the panko mixture over the top of each chicken breast.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and transfer to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Pro Tips for Success Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cranberries add a vibrant taste that’s essential for this dish. Avoid using canned cranberries if possible.
- Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, overstuffing can cause the chicken to burst during cooking.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking helps keep it juicy and flavorful.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the spices to suit your taste preferences. A pinch of nutmeg or cloves can add extra warmth.
Flavor Variations Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
- Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can provide a delightful crunch and complement the sweetness of the cranberries.
- Substitute Cheese: If you’re not a fan of brie, you can experiment with goat cheese or cream cheese for a different taste and texture.
- Spice It Up: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cranberry mixture for some heat.
- Use Different Fruits: Swap out cranberries for cherries or blueberries depending on the season and your preference.
Serving Suggestions Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Pair this impressive dish with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to allow the flavors of the chicken to shine. A glass of white wine would complement it beautifully, enhancing the meal’s overall taste. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted potatoes or a creamy risotto.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best quality, consider reheating in the oven rather than the microwave. If you want to freeze the stuffed chicken, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————|————|
| Calories | 389 |
| Protein | 29g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
FAQ About Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a day in advance. Assemble the chicken and place it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Just remember to adjust cooking time if they are coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of brie cheese?
If you’re not a fan of brie or can’t find it, cream cheese or goat cheese are wonderful alternatives. They provide a similarly creamy texture without the distinct tang that brie has.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Absolutely! You can use skinless chicken thighs for more flavor or replace honey with a natural sweetener like agave syrup. Additionally, using low-fat cheese can help reduce calories.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?
Yes! If you prefer to grill your chicken, you can achieve a delicious smoky flavor. Just ensure the chicken is evenly cooked through, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
How can I adjust the sweetness of the cranberry stuffing?
Feel free to adjust the quantity of honey to your taste. If you prefer a tart flavor, you can even reduce the honey or add more cranberries for a more pronounced tartness.
Final Thoughts
Impressive Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a wonderful addition to any dinner table. Not only is it easy to make, but it also brings splendid flavors that everyone will love. Whether it’s a weekday meal or a festive occasion, this dish is sure to impress your family and guests alike. Embrace the joy of cooking and enjoy every bite of this delightful recipe!
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Impressive Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful dish combining savory chicken with tangy cranberries and creamy brie cheese, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add fresh cranberries and cook until they begin to soften and burst, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in honey, orange juice, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool.
- Cut a pocket in each chicken breast being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast with brie cheese pieces and the cooled cranberry mixture.
- Secure chicken openings with toothpicks.
- In a skillet, sear each stuffed chicken breast for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Combine panko breadcrumbs and melted butter, then spread over the chicken.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Notes
Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor. Don’t overstuff the chicken, and let it rest after baking for juiciness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American