Description
This impressive Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken recipe is a flavorful showstopper perfect for any special occasion or dinner. Tender chicken breasts are filled with creamy Brie cheese and a tangy-sweet cranberry sauce, then topped with buttery panko breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection. The blend of warm spices and fresh parsley adds delightful aromas and vibrant color, making this dish as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Stuffing
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 ounces Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Cranberry Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the cranberry sauce: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add fresh cranberries and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in honey, orange juice, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Stuff the chicken breasts: Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast without slicing all the way through. Stuff each pocket with the Brie cheese pieces and a generous amount of the cooled cranberry sauce. Secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Sear the chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Add the breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and melted butter. Spread this mixture evenly over the tops of the seared chicken breasts to add a crunchy, buttery crust.
- Bake to finish cooking: Transfer the oven-safe skillet to a preheated oven set at 375°F (190°C). Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken pockets are securely closed with toothpicks to prevent filling from leaking during cooking.
- If fresh cranberries are unavailable, frozen cranberries can be used; just thaw before cooking.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to accurately check the chicken’s internal temperature for safety.
- Panko breadcrumbs add extra crispiness; regular breadcrumbs can be used but will be less crunchy.
- Remove toothpicks before serving to avoid any choking hazards.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
