Chicken Stuffed with Brie, Spinach & Cranberries

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor, texture, and a hint of festive magic, look no further than Chicken Stuffed with Brie, Spinach & Cranberries. This recipe combines juicy, tender chicken breasts with creamy brie, vibrant spinach, and sweet-tart cranberries for a mouthwatering meal that’s both elegant and easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, this dish delivers a delicious harmony of creamy, fresh, and fruity notes that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick yet impressive: Ready in under an hour, this recipe offers a gourmet taste without hours in the kitchen.
• Balanced flavors: Creamy brie contrasts perfectly with tangy cranberries and fresh spinach for a well-rounded palate.
• Nutrition-friendly: Packed with protein and greens, it’s a wholesome meal without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile for occasions: Ideal for holidays, dinner parties, or a cozy night in.
• Simple ingredients: Uses easy-to-find components that combine for spectacular results.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Chicken Stuffed with Brie, Spinach & Cranberries plays a vital role, bringing complementary flavors, textures, and colors to the dish. From creamy cheese to fresh greens and sweet berries, these essentials make this recipe truly special.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and perfect for stuffing with fillings.
• Brie cheese: Soft, creamy, and adds a rich, buttery depth.
• Fresh spinach: Adds earthiness and bright color while keeping it healthy.
• Dried cranberries: Provide a sweet-tart punch and vibrant red contrast.
• Garlic: Adds warm, savory undertones to the spinach mixture.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the spinach and keeping the chicken moist.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine: To secure the stuffed chicken before cooking.

Variations for Chicken Stuffed with Brie, Spinach & Cranberries

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to personalize it to match your dietary needs or flavor desires. Substitutions and tweaks are easier than you think!

• Different cheeses: Swap brie for goat cheese, cream cheese, or mozzarella for a twist.
• Leafy greens: Use kale, chard, or arugula in place of spinach for varied textures and flavors.
• Fresh cranberries: For a tart burst, use fresh cranberries if available instead of dried.
• Nutty crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the stuffing for extra texture.
• Herbs and spices: Mix in fresh thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika for a unique aroma.

How to Make Chicken Stuffed with Brie, Spinach & Cranberries

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by heating olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Toss in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, around 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in dried cranberries and cubed brie, stirring gently to combine.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally without cutting through completely, creating a pocket. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper on both sides for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

Fill each chicken pocket with a generous spoonful of the spinach, brie, and cranberry mixture. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to seal the openings, ensuring the stuffing stays inside while cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, transfer to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes to finish cooking gently.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute and keep it juicy. Remove toothpicks or twine and serve hot, letting the melty brie and sweet cranberries shine.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Stuffed with Brie, Spinach & Cranberries

• Butterfly carefully: Use a sharp knife and take your time to create an even pocket without cutting through.
• Don’t overstuff: Too much filling can cause the chicken to burst during cooking.
• Use room temperature brie: Soft brie fills the pocket more easily and melts beautifully.
• Secure well: Toothpicks and kitchen twine prevent filling from leaking out while cooking.
• Rest your chicken: Letting the meat rest prevents dryness and locks in all those wonderful juices.

How to Serve Chicken Stuffed with Brie, Spinach & Cranberries

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme adds a bright finishing touch that complements the creamy and fruity fillings perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted root vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a light mixed green salad for a balanced, colorful plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the stuffed chicken into medallions for a stunning presentation or serve whole for rustic charm. Drizzle with a light balsamic glaze or cranberry reduction to elevate the festive flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chicken Stuffed with Brie, Spinach & Cranberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, keeping it fresh and ready to enjoy again.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked stuffed chicken by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) to maintain moisture, or microwave on medium power in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken and cheese.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain the spinach to avoid excess moisture that could make the chicken soggy.

Is this recipe dairy-free friendly?

This particular recipe leans on brie cheese, so it’s not dairy-free, but you can substitute with dairy-free cheese alternatives if desired.

What is the best way to butterfly chicken breasts?

Use a sharp knife to slice horizontally through the thickest part of the breast, opening it like a book without cutting all the way through to create a pocket.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts and refrigerate for a few hours before cooking to save time on the day you plan to serve.

What wine pairs well with this recipe?

A light to medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese and fruity cranberries.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Stuffed with Brie, Spinach & Cranberries recipe is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors that feels special without complicated steps. Perfect for many occasions, it balances creaminess, freshness, and a touch of sweetness so effortlessly. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite go-to dish for both everyday dinners and festive celebrations.

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