As the aroma of sautéed spinach fills the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of excitement—nothing beats the comfort of a home-cooked meal! Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie. This dish beautifully combines juicy, tender chicken with creamy Brie and vibrant cranberries, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Not only is it elegant enough for a special dinner, but it also boasts a quick prep time that makes it accessible even on the busiest nights. With approximately 400 calories per serving, it’s a healthy dinner option that doesn’t compromise on satisfaction. Curious how to whip up this delightful dish? Let’s dive in!
Why is this stuffed chicken recipe irresistible?
Gourmet at Home: Experience restaurant-quality dining with the ease of a home-cooked meal.
Flavor Fusion: The sweetness of cranberries pairs perfectly with the creaminess of Brie and savory chicken.
Quick Prep: Enjoy all this goodness without hours in the kitchen—ideal for busy weeknights!
Healthy Indulgence: With roughly 400 calories per serving, you can savor a flavorful dish while keeping your dinner balanced.
Crowd-Pleaser: Bring family and friends together with a dish that’s fancy yet comforting, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Versatile Option: You can easily swap ingredients, experimenting with different cheeses like goat or Camembert for unique takes! For more chicken recipes, check out my Cheesy Garlic Chicken or Garlic Parmesan Chicken.
Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this delightful Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie.
For the Chicken
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The star of this dish that serves as the perfect vessel for stuffing.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that elevate the flavor profile of your chicken.
For the Filling
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and is ideal for sautéing the spinach; feel free to use avocado oil as a substitute.
- Fresh Spinach Leaves – Provides vibrant color and a mild sweetness; kale can be used for a different twist.
- Dried Cranberries – Their tartness and sweetness create a delightful contrast in the filling; fresh cranberries work too, just balance with sugar.
- Brie Cheese – Melts beautifully to add creaminess; Camembert or goat cheese can also substitute for a unique flavor.
- Garlic Powder – A convenient way to enhance the dish’s flavor without fussing with fresh garlic.
- Onion Powder – Infuses a subtle sweetness and depth into your stuffing.
- Dried Thyme – Adds an herbaceous note that complements the chicken, spinach, and Brie.
For Cooking
- Chicken Broth – Used for deglazing the pan to create a light sauce, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to creating a comforting and delicious dinner!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie will cook evenly, giving you that perfect golden exterior. While the oven heats, prepare your chicken breasts for stuffing.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Carefully slice pockets into the sides of each boneless, skinless chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through. This is essential for holding your delicious filling. Set the chicken aside, ready for seasoning to elevate its flavor.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Generously season both the inside and outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Make sure to massaged the spices into the meat for maximum flavor. This layer of seasoning is key for a taste that sings with each bite of your stuffed chicken.
Step 4: Sauté the Spinach
In a medium skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add fresh spinach leaves and sauté until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes. The vibrant green of the spinach will lighten and soften, creating a flavorful and nutritious base for your stuffing.
Step 5: Combine Filling Ingredients
Remove the sautéed spinach from heat and allow it to cool slightly. In a bowl, mix the spinach with dried cranberries, allowing the sweet and tart notes to infuse into the leafy greens. This colorful filling will add depth and joy to your Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken.
Step 6: Stuff the Chicken
Now, take your prepared chicken breasts and carefully stuff them with the spinach-cranberry mixture and generous slices of Brie cheese. Make sure to pack it in well but avoid overflowing. This creamy filling will melt and create a luxurious texture as the chicken cooks.
Step 7: Secure the Filling
Using toothpicks, secure the openings of each stuffed chicken breast after filling them. This prevents the gooey Brie and savory mixture from spilling out during cooking. You can also tie them with kitchen twine if you prefer a neater presentation for your Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken.
Step 8: Sear the Chicken
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil and heat on medium-high. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 3 minutes per side. This step creates a beautiful crust and locks in the flavors before baking.
Step 9: Deglaze the Skillet
Pour chicken broth into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up the browned bits stuck to the pan. This adds extra flavor to your dish. Bring to a simmer and then carefully transfer everything to a baking dish, placing the chicken in the broth to keep it moist.
Step 10: Bake the Chicken
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. It’s ready when the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring it’s perfectly cooked, juicy, and safe to eat. You’ll notice the delightful aroma filling your kitchen!
Step 11: Rest Before Serving
Once baked to perfection, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite of your Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie is tender and full of flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container, and enjoy within 3 days to ensure freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual chicken portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through (about 20-25 minutes). Enjoy your delicious Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken just like it was fresh out of the oven!
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare and stuff the chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply follow the initial steps—season, sauté the spinach, and fill the chicken with the mixture—then cover tightly and refrigerate. To maintain quality, ensure the chicken is wrapped properly to prevent any drying out. When you’re ready to cook, simply sear the breasts and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort on a hectic weeknight!
What to Serve with Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie
Elevate your dining experience by adding a few delightful sides to this delicious stuffed chicken, creating a meal that’s as visually stunning as it is flavorful.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes serve as a comforting base that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the chicken. Their smooth texture complements the dish’s richness perfectly.
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Quinoa Salad: A light and refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a hint of lemon offers a bright contrast to the hearty chicken. It’s a great way to add some crunch and freshness to the meal.
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Roasted Asparagus: The crisp-tender texture of roasted asparagus, drizzled with olive oil and lemon, provides a delightful bite that balances the softness of the stuffed chicken. It’s both nutritious and easy to prepare.
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Cranberry Sauce: Enhance the fruity flavors of the dish with a side of homemade cranberry sauce; its tart sweetness will beautifully echo the cranberries in your chicken stuffing.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in a bit of garlic and olive oil add vibrant color and a fresh taste, ensuring each forkful feels balanced.
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Lightly Dressed Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette will brighten the meal, offering peppery notes and freshness that cut through the richness of the Brie.
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Chardonnay or Pinot Noir: A glass of crisp Chardonnay or a light-bodied Pinot Noir is perfect, enhancing the meal’s flavors and providing a lovely pairing for your stuffed chicken.
Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful dish and make it truly your own!
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Dairy-Free: Replace Brie with a dairy-free cheese alternative, like cashew cream cheese, for a creamy twist without the lactose.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to your spinach and cranberry mix for a burst of fresh flavor that elevates the dish.
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Nuts for Crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans with the spinach and cranberries for added texture and a hearty crunch.
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Heat it Up: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the spinach mixture for a delightful spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the cranberries.
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Zesty Citrus: Add a splash of lemon juice or orange zest to the filling for a refreshing, citrusy brightness that livens up every bite.
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Sundried Tomato: Mix in finely chopped sundried tomatoes with the spinach for a burst of tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the Brie.
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Quinoa Stuffing: Blend cooked quinoa into your filling for a unique twist, enriching the dish with extra protein and a nutty texture.
Remember, experimenting with flavors can make your Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie even more exciting! For more delicious chicken ideas, dive into my Cajun White Chicken Chili or the comforting Chicken Pot Pie.
Expert Tips for Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken
- Meat Thermometer Must-Have: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption and avoid dry meat.
- Pockets Precision: When cutting the chicken pockets, take care not to slice all the way through; this will hold your delicious filling securely.
- Cool Before Stuffing: Let the sautéed spinach cool slightly before mixing with cranberries and Brie to prevent melting the cheese prematurely.
- Secure Tight: Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the stuffed chicken; this prevents leakage of the gooey Brie during cooking.
- Let It Rest: Allow the stuffed chicken to rest for 5 minutes post-baking—this redistributes juices, making each serving of your Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken tender and juicy.
Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing fresh spinach, look for vibrant green leaves without any signs of wilting or browning. For the chicken, opt for boneless, skinless breasts that are plump and have no dark spots or unpleasant odor. Dried cranberries should be chewy and moist; avoid overly hard or hardened ones. And for the Brie cheese, pick a wheel that’s soft and slightly yielding but not too runny.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very good question! Store any leftover Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken in an airtight container in your refrigerator, and it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing it to avoid condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze my stuffed chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual portions of the stuffed chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. They’re good for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
What are some common troubleshooting tips for this recipe?
If your chicken is not browning as you’d like, ensure your pan is hot enough before searing. For overcooked chicken, a meat thermometer is a game-changer—it should reach 165°F (74°C) but not go much higher to prevent dryness. If your stuffing spills out, double-check that the pockets are snug and well-secured with toothpicks or by tying them.
Is this dish safe for people with dietary restrictions?
Great concern! This recipe is not gluten-free due to the chicken broth often containing gluten, so be sure to use gluten-free broth if needed. For those with dairy sensitivity, opt for a dairy-free cheese as a substitute for Brie. And always communicate with your guests about any allergies, especially concerning chicken and cheese components.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
I often make the stuffing mixture a day ahead! You can prepare, stuff, and even secure your chicken the night before, then store it in the fridge until ready to bake. Just remember to increase the baking time by a few minutes if cooking directly from the fridge, as it starts cooler than at room temperature.
Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie for Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully slice pockets into the sides of each boneless, skinless chicken breast.
- Generously season both the inside and outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
- In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté spinach until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove sautéed spinach from heat and mix with dried cranberries.
- Stuff the chicken breasts with the spinach-cranberry mixture and slices of Brie cheese.
- Using toothpicks, secure openings of each stuffed chicken breast.
- In the same skillet, add more olive oil and sear stuffed chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 3 minutes per side.
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet to deglaze, then transfer everything to a baking dish.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
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