Cranberry Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast with Brie

Cranberry Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast with Brie

Main Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• ½ cup dried cranberries, minced
• 4 oz Brie cheese, sliced
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp butter (optional for pan sear)

Seasonings & Flavors

• 1 tsp lemon zest
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• A pinch of sea salt

Optional

• Toasted almond slices
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Extra dollop of cranberry sauce

Instructions

1. 1Prepare chicken pockets: Lay each breast on a cutting board. Slice a deep pocket horizontally, being careful not to cut through. Watch for tearing; if the meat splits, press edges together.
2. 2Season and sear: Rub breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium‑high. Sear chicken skin‑side down 2–3 minutes until golden. Listen for a steady sizzle; adjust heat if smoking.
3. 3Make stuffing: Combine chopped spinach, minced cranberries, Parmesan, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix gently to keep spinach strands intact.
4. 4Fill chicken: Stuff each pocket with a spoonful of the spinach‑cranberry mix, then add a slice of Brie. Press the opening gently; secure with a toothpick to prevent leakage.
5. 5Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F. Transfer seared breasts to a baking dish, skin side up. Bake 30–35 minutes, until internal temp reaches 165°F and the cheese is melted and bubbling. Look for a deep golden top and aromatic steam.
6. 6Rest and serve: Remove from oven, let rest 5 minutes. This lets juices redistribute and the filling set, avoiding a runny plate.

Recipe Notes

• Chef tip: Pat the chicken dry and season 15 minutes before searing for flavor penetration.
• Best substitution: Swap Brie for goat cheese for a tangier profile; expect a softer melt.
• Make-ahead: Assemble stuffed breasts and freeze; bake from frozen adding 10 minutes to cook time.
• Scaling: Double ingredients for 8 servings; keep oven space; increase bake time by 5 minutes.
• Troubleshooting: If filling leaks, the pocket wasn’t sealed; use toothpicks and press edges firmly before baking.

Nutrition Per Serving