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Perfect Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken

cranberry brie stuffed chicken - featured image

A delicious and elegant stuffed chicken breast recipe combining creamy brie, sweet-tart dried cranberries, and fresh herbs, perfect for special occasions or family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170 g each)
  • 8 oz (225 g) brie cheese, rind removed and sliced
  • ½ cup (75 g) dried cranberries
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Toothpicks or kitchen twine, for securing the chicken pockets
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. If breasts are uneven, gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin to about ½-inch (1.3 cm) thickness for even cooking.
  3. Sprinkle salt and freshly cracked black pepper on both the outside and inside of each chicken pocket.
  4. In a small bowl, combine sliced brie, dried cranberries, minced garlic, chopped thyme, and lemon zest (if using).
  5. Spoon the filling evenly into each pocket. Secure the openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
  6. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown but not fully cooked through.
  7. Place the skillet with chicken directly into the preheated oven. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove chicken from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
  9. Remove toothpicks or untie twine carefully. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Notes

Keep filling ingredients relatively dry to prevent soggy pockets. Do not overstuff chicken pockets to avoid filling leakage. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Rest chicken after baking to keep it juicy. For a crunchy crust, coat chicken with almond meal or gluten-free breadcrumbs before searing. Dairy-free versions can use vegan cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

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