Description
This Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie recipe is a delicious, elegant main course combining tender chicken breasts stuffed with creamy brie, fresh spinach, and sweet dried cranberries. Perfectly seared and then baked to juicy perfection, this gluten-free dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, ideal for a special holiday meal or a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Stuffing
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 4 ounces brie cheese, sliced
Seasoning and Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Prepare the chicken pockets: Using a sharp knife, slice a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through, creating space for the stuffing.
- Make the stuffing mixture: In a small bowl, combine the chopped fresh spinach and dried cranberries thoroughly.
- Stuff the chicken breasts: Stuff each chicken pocket with several slices of brie cheese and a spoonful of the cranberry-spinach mixture, then secure the openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Season the chicken: Rub the outside of each stuffed breast with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper for flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Bake to finish: Transfer the skillet with the seared chicken to the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.
- Rest before serving: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender chicken.
Notes
- Pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, wild rice, or a mixed greens salad for a complete meal.
- You can substitute goat cheese or cream cheese if brie is unavailable or you prefer a different flavor.
