Description
This Chicken Stuffed with Brie, Spinach, and Cranberries is festive, creamy, savory, and sweet all in one. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with melty brie, earthy spinach, and sweet dried cranberries for a flavorful and elegant holiday dinner that looks impressive but requires simple preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- For the Stuffing:
- 4 oz brie cheese, sliced or cubed
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of pepper
- Optional Add-Ins:
- Fresh rosemary or thyme
- Sautéed onions
- Crushed walnuts or pecans
- A drizzle of honey
- For Pan Searing (Optional):
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Additional olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Cut a deep pocket into the thickest side of each chicken breast, taking care not to cut all the way through.
- Season: Sprinkle the inside and outside with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Make the filling: In a small bowl, combine chopped spinach, dried cranberries, brie pieces, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the chicken: Fill each pocket with the brie-spinach-cranberry mixture.
- Secure: Insert toothpicks along the seam to hold the filling inside.
- Sear (optional): Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet and sear the chicken 2–3 minutes per side.
- Bake: Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest: Let rest 5 minutes before slicing to keep the chicken juicy.
Notes
- Use evenly sized chicken breasts for even cooking.
- Do not overstuff—this prevents tearing and leaking during baking.
- Fresh spinach works best for texture.
- Searing the chicken first adds great flavor and color.
- Secure with toothpicks to keep filling inside.
- Add fresh herbs for extra festive aroma.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Holiday