Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is the kind of dish that looks restaurant-worthy yet comes together with surprising ease. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with creamy Brie and a bright, sweet-tart cranberry mixture, producing layers of flavor that feel celebratory and refined. The contrast of rich, melted cheese and vibrant cranberry creates a beautiful balance—cozy, indulgent, and perfect for holiday entertaining or special dinners at home. I once tried brushing the chicken with a touch of maple syrup before baking, and it added a subtle sweetness that complemented the cranberries beautifully. This recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, wild rice, or a simple green salad, making it a versatile entrée for both formal gatherings and relaxed evenings. If you’re looking for a main dish that delivers impressive flavor with minimal complication, this Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a reliable and delicious choice.
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Impressive Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken: A Festive, Elegant Dinner Made Easy
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Elegant baked chicken breasts stuffed with creamy brie, tart cranberry sauce, and fresh herbs—beautifully festive and full of sweet-savory flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry preferred)
- 6 oz brie cheese, sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Toothpicks for securing
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Use a sharp knife to cut a deep pocket into each chicken breast.
- Stuff each pocket with slices of brie and a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped rosemary or thyme and secure the opening with toothpicks.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush over the chicken.
- Place chicken in the baking dish and bake 22–28 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes to lightly brown the top.
- Let rest 5 minutes, remove toothpicks, and serve with extra cranberry sauce.
Notes
- Use chilled brie for easier slicing.
- Add spinach to the filling for extra color.
- Pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a holiday salad.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breasts
Chicken breasts serve as the perfect vessel for stuffing. Their mild flavor and sturdy structure hold the Brie and cranberries while remaining tender and juicy.
Brie cheese
Brie lends creamy, buttery richness that melts beautifully inside the chicken. Its subtle flavor pairs naturally with poultry and fruit.
Cranberry sauce
Cranberry sauce brings bright acidity and sweetness, balancing the richness of the cheese and creating a festive flavor profile.
Garlic
Garlic enhances the savory notes of the chicken and complements the sweetness of the cranberry filling.
Olive oil
Olive oil helps the chicken brown evenly and adds a smooth, subtle richness to the exterior.
Salt and pepper
Simple seasonings that heighten the flavors of the chicken and balance the sweetness of the filling.
Fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary)
Herbs add aromatic depth and a fresh, earthy note that complements the cranberry and Brie.
Paprika
Paprika gives the chicken a warm color and gentle flavor that enhances the final presentation.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Prepare the chicken breasts by slicing a deep pocket into the side of each one without cutting all the way through. Season the chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Spoon a small amount of cranberry sauce into each pocket, then add slices of Brie and a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs. Press the filling gently so it sits securely. Use toothpicks to close the openings if needed.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for two to three minutes on each side until lightly golden. Add minced garlic to the pan during the last minute of searing, letting it become fragrant without burning.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for several minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Spoon any pan juices over the chicken before serving.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, searing requires 5 minutes, and baking takes 20–25 minutes. Total estimated time: approximately 40–45 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a 325°F oven for 10–12 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for long periods, as it may cause the Brie to separate and the chicken to dry out. This dish is not recommended for freezing due to the cheese filling.
Variations and Customizations
Apple Cranberry Stuffed Chicken
Add thin slices of apple inside the pocket for a fruity, crisp layer.
Maple Dijon Glazed Version
Brush the chicken with a mixture of maple syrup and Dijon mustard before baking for a sweet-savory finish.
Walnut Cranberry Crush
Add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts inside the filling for added crunch.
Goat Cheese Substitute
Replace Brie with creamy goat cheese for a tangier flavor profile.
Pesto Brie Stuffed Chicken
Add a spoonful of basil pesto along with the Brie for herbaceous richness.
Spicy Cranberry Kick
Stir a pinch of red pepper flakes into the cranberry sauce for gentle heat.
Smoked Brie Variation
Use smoked Brie to introduce deeper, more complex flavor.
Caramelized Onion Addition
Add a spoonful of caramelized onions inside each breast for sweet, savory depth.
Holiday Herb Blend
Use sage, rosemary, and thyme together for a festive aromatic finish.
Fig and Brie Stuffed Chicken
Swap cranberry sauce for fig jam for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
FAQs
Do I need to sear the chicken first?
Searing helps develop flavor and color but can be skipped if baking only.
Can I use turkey cutlets instead of chicken?
Yes, adjust cooking time as they may cook more quickly.
Can I use canned cranberry sauce?
Absolutely—it works perfectly and saves time.
How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
Use toothpicks and avoid overstuffing.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble the chicken ahead and refrigerate before cooking.
Is Brie the best cheese for this?
Brie melts well, but goat cheese, mozzarella, or Camembert also work.
Can I grill the chicken instead?
Stuffed chicken is best baked to prevent filling loss.
Why is my chicken dry?
Overbaking can dry it out—use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Can I add vegetables inside?
Yes, spinach or sautéed mushrooms work beautifully.
Should I remove the Brie rind?
No, the rind melts seamlessly and adds flavor.
Conclusion
Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is an elegant yet approachable dish that beautifully balances creamy, savory, and sweet flavors. Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or cozy nights in, this recipe offers a stunning presentation with minimal effort. Its versatility allows endless variations, making it easy to tailor the flavors to your preference. Serve it warm with your favorite sides, and enjoy a meal that feels both comforting and impressive—an ideal centerpiece for any festive gathering.
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