Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie

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Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie

Description

This elegant yet easy dish combines savory, creamy, and slightly sweet flavors for a show-stopping meal. Juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with fresh spinach, creamy Brie cheese, and tart cranberries, then baked until golden and tender. Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or simply when you want to elevate your weeknight dinner.

Ingredients For Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1 cup fresh spinach leaves (lightly sautéed or fresh)

  • 4 oz Brie cheese, sliced

  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries (or fresh cranberries lightly sautéed with honey)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

  • 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

  • Toothpicks or kitchen twine (to secure chicken)

  •  Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Prepare chicken – Place chicken breasts on a cutting board and carefully slice a pocket into each (do not cut all the way through).

  3. Make filling – In a bowl, mix spinach, cranberries, and Brie slices.

  4. Stuff chicken – Fill each chicken breast with the mixture. Secure with toothpicks.

  5. Season & sear – Rub chicken with olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.

  6. Bake – Transfer to a baking dish and bake 20–25 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

  7. Serve – Drizzle with balsamic glaze (optional) and serve warm with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • Brie melts beautifully but can ooze out—don’t overstuff.

  • Use a mix of fresh and dried cranberries for a balance of sweetness and tartness.

  • You can prepare the chicken ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

Tips

  • For extra flavor, marinate chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic 30 minutes before stuffing.

  • A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts in the filling adds crunch.

  • Substitute Brie with goat cheese or cream cheese if desired.

  • If you don’t have balsamic glaze, honey or maple syrup works as a drizzle.

Servings

  • Yield: 4 servings

  • Serving size: 1 stuffed chicken breast

 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 390

  • Protein: 40g

  • Carbohydrates: 10g

  • Fat: 20g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sugars: 7g

Health Benefits

  • Chicken breast – Lean protein, supports muscle growth and repair.

  • Spinach – Rich in iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants.

  • Cranberries – High in vitamin C, fiber, and urinary tract health benefits.

  • Brie cheese – Provides calcium and healthy fats (in moderation).

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes, thaw and squeeze out excess water before using.

Q: What sides go best with this dish?
A: Roasted potatoes, wild rice, or a light arugula salad pair beautifully.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Substitute Brie with a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit it for a lighter version.

Q: How do I keep the chicken juicy?
A: Don’t overbake—remove once the internal temp reaches 165°F. A quick sear before baking also locks in juices.

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