This Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors. Juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with melty Brie cheese, tart cranberries, and fresh spinach, then baked to perfection. This dish is elegant enough for a dinner party but easy enough for a weeknight meal!
**Time Needed**
– **Prep Time:** 10 minutes
– **Cooking Time:** 25–30 minutes
– **Total Time:** 40 minutes
**Ingredients**
**For the Chicken:**
– 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
**For the Stuffing:**
– ½ cup fresh spinach, chopped
– ¼ cup dried cranberries (or fresh)
– 2 oz Brie cheese, sliced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
– 1 teaspoon honey (for a slight sweetness)
**For the Glaze (Optional but Recommended):**
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
**Instructions**
**1. Prepare the Chicken:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
**2. Make the Filling:**
1. In a small bowl, mix together spinach, cranberries, Brie slices, Dijon mustard, and honey.
**3. Stuff the Chicken:**
1. Spoon the filling into each chicken breast and secure with toothpicks if needed.
2. Season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
**4. Sear the Chicken:**
1. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the stuffed chicken for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
**5. Bake to Perfection:**
1. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
2. If using the honey-balsamic glaze, mix honey and balsamic vinegar and brush over the chicken in the last 5 minutes of baking.
**6. Serve & Enjoy:**
1. Remove toothpicks and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad!
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**Nutritional Info**
*(Per Serving, Approximate – Based on 2 servings)*
– Calories: ~400 kcal
– Protein: 45g
– Carbohydrates: 12g
– Fat: 18g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sodium: ~500mg
**Notes & Variations**
– **Use Goat Cheese:** Swap Brie for goat cheese for a tangier twist.
– **Add Nuts:** Chopped pecans or walnuts add extra crunch.
– **Make It Dairy-Free:** Use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
– **Meal Prep Friendly:** Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Enjoy this elegant and flavorful Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken with Brie—a dish that’s sure to impress!