Here’s a delicious recipe for Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie that combines savory, sweet, and creamy flavors for a perfect dish. Here’s how to prepare it:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small cubes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, if preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (optional for glaze)
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken breasts:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast (being careful not to cut all the way through).
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Make the stuffing:
- In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook for about 2-3 minutes, just until it wilts.
- Remove from heat and stir in the dried cranberries and Brie cheese. Mix until everything is combined.
- Stuff the chicken:
- Carefully stuff each chicken breast with the spinach, cranberry, and Brie mixture. Use toothpicks to secure the opening if necessary.
- Cook the chicken:
- Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit more olive oil if needed.
- Once the skillet is hot, sear each chicken breast on both sides for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Bake the chicken:
- Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, then transfer the pan to the preheated oven.
- Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted inside.
- Optional balsamic glaze:
- For extra flavor, drizzle with balsamic vinegar and place under the broiler for a minute or two to caramelize, giving the dish a sweet finish.
- Serve:
- Once the chicken is done, remove the toothpicks, and serve with the pan sauce. Pair with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie! The combination of savory spinach, sweet cranberries, and creamy Brie makes this dish incredibly flavorful.