The sound of chicken sizzling in my cast iron skillet always takes me back to those cozy winter evenings when something special was needed. This cranberry and brie stuffed chicken transforms a simple weeknight into pure magic. It’s become my go-to when I want to feel fancy without the fuss.
Picture tender chicken breasts filled with creamy brie and tart cranberries, then baked until golden and bubbling. The sweet-savory combo reminds me of Thanksgiving flavors but works any time of year. Just three main ingredients plus some herbs create this gourmet brie and cranberry stuffed chicken that looks way harder than it actually is. Full details in the blog!
I’ve been making stuffed chicken since my early twenties, always tweaking the filling based on what’s in my fridge. This version came from a happy accident when I had leftover cranberry sauce and some fancy cheese. I tested it on my pickiest dinner guests first. Trust me, the melty brie surprise inside will make you look like a total kitchen hero.
PrintCranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken Easy Recipe
Enjoy a delicious cranberry and brie stuffed chicken that combines creamy cheese and tangy cranberry sauce. This easy cranberry brie chicken recipe is perfect for holidays and makes a great baked brie cranberry chicken rolls alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Standard
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup cranberry sauce preferably homemade or low-sugar
- 4 oz Brie cheese cut into small pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Set your oven to heat at 375°F or 190°C.
- Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness by placing them between plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pounding with a meat mallet.
- Coat both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil, then sprinkle salt, pepper, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder evenly.
- Carefully slice a horizontal pocket into the thickest part of each chicken breast, making sure not to cut through. Fill each pocket with cranberry sauce and Brie pieces, pressing the edges to close.
- Preheat a large oven-safe skillet with some olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the stuffed chicken for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden.
- Move the skillet to the oven and bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes until cooked through and the Brie is melted.
- After baking, allow the chicken to rest a few minutes before slicing and serving with your favorite sides.
Notes
- For crisp tops, broil 2–3 minutes at the end
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 350-400
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 40g
Why This Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken Will Become Your New Favorite
There’s something magical about slicing into stuffed chicken and watching that creamy brie ooze out alongside the jewel-toned cranberries. It reminds me of those special dinners where everyone suddenly gets quiet, savoring every bite.
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between impressive and achievable. With just a handful of ingredients, the flavors are rich and sophisticated. The tart cranberries beautifully complement the rich, buttery brie, while the herbs add that cozy, homey touch that makes the dish feel intentional.
Best part: It looks like you spent hours in the kitchen, but you’ll have dinner on the table in under 45 minutes. Perfect for treating your family to something special on a Tuesday night.
Let’s Talk About These Beautiful Ingredients
The magic of this dish really comes down to choosing the right ingredients. When working with so few components, each one needs to shine on its own.
- Boneless chicken breasts: Choose ones that are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking. Don’t worry if they’re a bit thick – pounding them out is oddly therapeutic and guarantees tender results.
- Brie cheese: This is where I splurge a little. Good brie makes all the difference – it should be soft and creamy, not firm or chalky. Cut it into small pieces so it melts beautifully throughout.
- Cranberry sauce: Whether you use leftover holiday sauce or grab a jar from the store, look for one that’s not overly sweet. You want those cranberries to provide a lovely tart contrast.
- Simple seasonings: Thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder form the perfect savory base without competing with the star flavors.
| Ingredient | Best Choice | Quick Swap |
|---|---|---|
| Brie Cheese | Soft, creamy brie at room temperature | Camembert or goat cheese |
| Cranberry Sauce | Low-sugar or homemade | Fig jam or apricot preserves |
| Thyme | Dried thyme (more concentrated) | Fresh rosemary or sage |
The Step-by-Step Magic
I love how this easy cranberry brie chicken recipe comes together in a logical flow. First, we prep the chicken by pounding it to an even thickness – this isn’t just busy work; it helps everything cook evenly and makes stuffing much easier.
Creating that pocket for the filling feels a bit like surgery at first, but you’ll get the hang of it quickly. Make a horizontal cut about three-quarters of the way through, then gently open it like a book. The key is to go slow and let your knife do the work.
- Searing first: That golden crust locks in juices and gives beautiful color.
- Oven finishing: Gentle heat ensures the cheese melts perfectly without overcooking the chicken.
- Resting time: Those few minutes before slicing let everything settle and prevent a messy plate.
Troubleshooting Your Stuffed Chicken Success
Even after years of making stuffed chicken, I still encounter moments where things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are the little hiccups I’ve learned to navigateusually with a laugh and maybe a glass of wine.
Filling escaping: If your brie and cranberries start oozing out during cooking, don’t panic! It means you were generous with the filling, which isn’t a bad thing. Next time, seal the edges a bit tighter or use toothpicks to keep everything in place.
Uneven cooking: This usually happens when chicken breasts vary in size. A meat thermometer is your best friend herelook for 165°F in the thickest part. If one piece finishes early, tent it with foil while the others catch up.
| Problem | Solution | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Dry chicken | Check temp early, tent with foil | Pound to even thickness, don’t overcook |
| Filling leaks out | Embrace the rustic look! | Don’t overstuff, seal edges well |
| Cheese not melty | Let brie come to room temp first | Use smaller pieces, extend bake time |
Making It Your Own
One of my favorite things about this cranberry and brie stuffed chicken is how it adapts to whatever mood you’re in or what’s hiding in your pantry. I’ve made versions with dried cranberries when fresh sauce wasn’t available, and honestly, they’re just as delicious.
For holidays, I sometimes add a handful of chopped fresh herbs like sage or rosemary to the filling. The earthy flavors make it feel extra festive. If you’re feeling fancy, a thin layer of prosciutto wrapped around the outside turns this into an absolutely show-stopping centerpiece.
Pro tip: This recipe scales beautifully for company. I’ve made it for eight people using the same timing, just with a larger skillet or two smaller ones. The flavors actually seem to get even better when you’re sharing them around a crowded table.
Serving and Storing Your Delicious Creation
The beauty of this dish is how well it pairs with almost any side you can imagine. I love serving it with roasted Brussels sprouts and creamy mashed potatoes for a complete comfort meal, but it’s equally lovely alongside a crisp green salad and crusty bread.
Leftovers are wonderfulslice the cold chicken thin for sandwiches, or reheat gently in the oven wrapped in foil. The flavors meld even more overnight, making day-two lunch something to look forward to.
| Storage Method | Time Frame | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (covered) | 3-4 days | Slice for sandwiches or reheat gently |
| Freezer (wrapped well) | 2-3 months | Thaw overnight, reheat in 350°F oven |
| Room temperature | 2 hours max | Serving at dinner parties |
Expert Says
Stuffing your chicken with cranberry and brie not only adds a delightful flavor contrast but also elevates the dish’s nutritional profile. The brie provides a source of calcium and vitamin B12, while cranberries are rich in antioxidants, making this dish both delicious and health-conscious.
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The Journey to My Perfect Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken
This cranberry and brie stuffed chicken took me countless attempts to get just right. I remember the first time, when the chicken was so dry it might as well have been cardboard. Through trial and error, I finally created a dish that’s juicy and bursting with flavors reminiscent of family gatherings and holiday warmth.
FAQs ( Cranberry and Brie Stuffed Chicken )
What are the best side dishes for this meal?
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balance of flavors. You might also consider serving it with creamy garlic mashed potatoes or a wild rice pilaf to complement the rich, cheesy filling.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and stuffing in advance, then store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the dish on the day you plan to serve it for the best texture and flavor.
How long does it take to cook this dish?
The cooking time for this meal typically ranges from 25 to 35 minutes at 375°F, depending on the size of the chicken breasts. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Can I use a different cheese?
While Brie offers a unique creaminess, you can substitute it with goat cheese or cream cheese for a similar texture. Just keep in mind that changing the cheese will slightly alter the flavor profile of the dish.
How can I make this recipe low carb?
To make this dish low-carb, you can skip any breading or high-carb sides and focus on using fresh herbs and spices for flavor. Pair the stuffed chicken with a side of steamed vegetables to keep it light and delicious.
This cranberry and brie stuffed chicken delivers everything you want in 30 minutes of active cookingtender, juicy chicken with a gorgeous melted cheese surprise inside. The sweet-tart cranberries evoke holiday dinners, but honestly, it’s too good to save for special occasions. You’ll love how elegant it looks when you slice into those golden, bubbling pockets.
Here’s a trick from my grandmother’s playbook: let the brie soften on the counter first for easier stuffing. Try swapping in dried cranberries mixed with a splash of white wine, or add chopped walnuts for a satisfying crunch. Leftovers reheat beautifully in a 350°F ovenjust wrap in foil to keep everything moist and melty.
I’d love to see your version! Tag me in your photos or share what sides you paired with it. Did your family have a go-to stuffed chicken growing up? There’s something so satisfying about passing along these cozy, impressive recipes that make ordinary Tuesday nights feel a little more special.
