Description
This Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken recipe combines tender chicken breasts with creamy brie cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and fresh spinach for a flavorful and elegant dish. The stuffing is infused with garlic, onion, and thyme, while the chicken is carefully pan-fried to perfection, sealing in all the juicy flavors. Ideal for a special dinner or cozy meal, this recipe offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 pounds chicken breasts, boneless & skinless
Stuffing
- 5 ounces brie cheese, cut into 6 long slices
- 1 small onion, minced
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 6 ounces spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Cooking
- 1 tablespoon oil, for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the stuffing: In a skillet over medium heat, add the tablespoon of oil and sauté the minced onion and garlic until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 2 minutes. Stir in the dried cranberries, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove the mixture from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Prepare the chicken breasts: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through. Season the inside and outside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff the chicken: Fill each pocket with the sautéed spinach mixture and a slice of brie cheese. Press the edges of the chicken breasts to seal the stuffing inside securely.
- Cook the stuffed chicken: Heat additional oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on one side until golden brown. Carefully flip the chicken and continue cooking for another 6-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and the brie is melted.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh thyme or additional cranberries for a festive touch.
Notes
- Ensure to not overstuff the chicken breasts to prevent tearing during cooking.
- If a thermometer is available, check for an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee doneness.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute brie with a vegan cheese alternative.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or roasted vegetables.
Keywords: stuffed chicken, cranberry, brie, spinach, chicken breasts, skillet chicken, easy dinner, savory and sweet