This Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie is a festive and flavorful dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. The juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with creamy brie cheese, fresh spinach, and tart cranberries, creating a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. The honey drizzle and fresh rosemary add a delightful finishing touch, making each bite both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 oz Brie cheese, sliced
- ½ cup fresh cranberries (or dried cranberries, rehydrated)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, lightly sautéed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butterfly the Chicken: Carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally, being mindful not to cut all the way through. This creates a pocket that will hold the stuffing. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Stuff the Chicken
- Assemble the Filling: Inside each chicken breast pocket, add a slice of brie cheese, a few cranberries, and a small handful of sautéed spinach.
- Close the Chicken: Fold the chicken breasts back over to seal the filling inside. Use toothpicks to secure the edges of the chicken and keep the filling in place during cooking.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
- Heat the Olive Oil: In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. This step adds a nice color and helps lock in the juices of the chicken.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Transfer to the Oven: After searing, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the stuffing is warm and melted.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Drizzle with Honey (optional): Once the chicken is cooked, drizzle with a small amount of honey for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh rosemary sprigs and serve the chicken warm. You can also add extra cranberries and sautéed spinach on the side as garnish.
Helpful Tips for Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie
Use Cold Brie
For easier handling, keep the Brie cheese cold before stuffing the chicken. Cold Brie is firmer, which makes it easier to slice and prevents it from melting too quickly during cooking.
Secure the Chicken with Toothpicks
Use toothpicks to secure the stuffed chicken. This will help keep the filling inside, especially during searing. Be sure to remove the toothpicks before serving, or warn your guests to look out for them.
Sear for Extra Flavor
Searing the chicken before baking helps develop a golden-brown crust and locks in the juices. Don’t skip this step, as it also adds depth of flavor to the dish.
Adjust Cranberry Sweetness
If you find fresh cranberries too tart, you can cook them briefly in honey or sugar before adding them to the stuffing. This will soften them and balance their tartness with a little sweetness.
Substitutions and Variations for Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie
Cheese Alternatives:
- Goat Cheese: Swap Brie for goat cheese for a tangier and slightly creamier filling. Goat cheese pairs wonderfully with cranberries and spinach.
- Cream Cheese: Use cream cheese for a milder, richer filling that complements the cranberries and spinach nicely.
- Mozzarella: If you prefer a milder cheese, mozzarella provides a creamy texture without overpowering the other flavors.
Cranberry Options:
- Dried Cranberries: If fresh cranberries are unavailable, you can use dried cranberries. To soften them, rehydrate them in warm water or juice for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the stuffing.
- Pomegranate Seeds: For a different burst of sweetness and tartness, try using pomegranate seeds in place of cranberries. They provide a similar pop of flavor and color.
Add a Touch of Sweetness:
For an added contrast of sweet and savory, drizzle honey or maple syrup inside the chicken breast before closing it. This will deepen the sweetness of the dish, balancing the savory flavors.
Herb Variations:
Switch up the herbs to match your taste preferences:
- Thyme: For a more aromatic touch, use fresh thyme instead of rosemary.
- Sage: Sage pairs beautifully with chicken and adds an earthy flavor.
- Basil: For a refreshing twist, use basil for a slightly peppery, sweet note.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Answer: Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply sear and bake as directed.
2. What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
Answer: After searing the chicken breasts in a regular skillet, you can transfer them to a baking dish or a sheet pan to finish baking in the oven.
3. Can I freeze the stuffed chicken?
Answer: Yes, you can freeze the stuffed (uncooked) chicken breasts. Wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
4. Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Answer: Absolutely! If using dried cranberries, rehydrate them in warm water or juice to plump them up, or use them as they are for a slightly chewier texture.
5. How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
Answer: To keep the filling in place, use cold Brie (which melts slower), and make sure the chicken breasts are securely closed. Toothpicks will help keep the filling inside while the chicken cooks. Searing the chicken also helps seal the edges before baking.
Conclusion
Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie is an elegant yet easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for holiday dinners or any special occasion. The combination of creamy Brie, fresh spinach, and tart cranberries delivers a delicious balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. With a drizzle of honey and a garnish of fresh rosemary, this dish is sure to impress your guests. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with substitutions, this dish will elevate your meal and leave everyone asking for seconds.